SINNERGY - Geoff Reisner

[Geoff_R]

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/sinnergytempposter_v4.jpg

Cast...
James McCarthy (http://us.vdc.imdb.com/name/nm1929332/) as Archy
Kevin Nyhus as Simon
Andy Brosseau as Benny
Maria Olsen (http://us.vdc.imdb.com/name/nm1864017/)
Harry Williams Jr.
Shon Lange (http://us.vdc.imdb.com/name/nm2728293/)
Brandi Aguilar

Crew...
Production Manager - Mike Kovacs
Assistant Director - Damien Jackson

Director of Photography - Matt Garrett
Assistant Camera/Grip - Tim Hyten
2nd Assistant Camera/Grip - Kholi Hicks
Location Sound - Matt Parra
Make-up and Effects - Camille Labry

Music by Anthony Shamal Perera
Sound Editors - Matt Parra & Alex Donkle
Sound Designers - Matt Parra & John Gonzales
Sound Mixer - Matt Parra

Editor - Geoff Reisner
Visual Effects - Jack Parsner
Opening Titles - Tom Marshall

Story by Kholi Hicks
Screenplay by Kholi Hicks & Geoff Reisner
Produced by Geoff Reisner, Mike Kovacs & Damien Jackson
Directed by Geoff Reisner

Special Thanks...
Sean Massey for hooking us up with his audio gear so our movie sounds like a real film :)
Sean Buck for hooking us up with some lighting and grip equipment.
B-Rice, Luis Sinibaldi and Adam Key for hooking it up with some other gear and props we needed. And to all our friends and family who put up with our crazy attitudes while we're focused on making a film. And a special thanks to my friend Matt whom spent a series of long nights crunching away in pro tools to bring all the final sound elements together to make the deadline.

[Geoff_R]

Reserved....

[Rodney V. Smith]

And the entrance of another Bonafied Heavy Hitter. (actually a whole bunch of you guys)

Welcome Geoff. I was wondering if you were gonna make it in. Looking forward to the sheer awesomeness.

[Edgen]

Wonderful Geoff! Can't wait to see your film. Always a fan of your work.

/j

[Matty_g]

it was a really fun shoot. Cant wait to see some footage.

[Matt Sconce]

Wow! Welcome. I am very glad you are submitting something. I have always enjoyed your work. -Matt

[Sprocketboy]

This is a pleasant surprise. Are you cutting it close or what?

[Danielleus]

Yep, as always, looking forward to anything you do.

Good luck getting it done.

D

[Geoff_R]

This is a pleasant surprise. Are you cutting it close or what?
I wish I had another two weeks for post but unfortunately, this was the soonest I could get the piece shot. One good thing though is that this one went through a good month of prep in regards to script treatment, story boarding and scouting, so there should be more creative liberty in post as opposed to 'fixing' it in post.

And I enjoy racing against tight deadlines. I like when it's 100% all the way to the line.

[ramsaur]

Loved "The Thing We Carry" so I'll be expecting to see this one. Good luck with it!

[Kevin E. Curry]

Looking forward to the poster! Any chance for screen grabs when you get to that point?

[Marlon Ladd]

Can't wait. Glad to see you back in.

[Matty_g]

I just wanted to say how much I enjoyed working on this project.
The time Geoff and others spent in prepro saved us sooooooo much time.
It's also way easier to make nice images with nice locations.

I was very impressed with the GH1. We used the hot rod PL mount and put my lomo anamorphics on it. With the speed of the GH1 i was lighting interiors with a very small arri kit and still shooting at a 5.6 something I couldn't have done on this shoot with a red. The size and speed of the camera helped us move VERY fast.

There was also just a really good mood on set. You could tell that everyone felt like they were helping to make something.. special. Nobody complained once. Everyone was helpful. Can't wait for people to check this out.

[TMerry]

Cool, looking forward to seeing what the GH1 can do. Welcome!

[ZazaCast]

The winner of QuestFest was shot on a GH1, so this should prove outstanding!
Looking forward to it...

[Geoff_R]

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/sinnergy_frame03.jpg

[ZazaCast]

See... I told you...OUTSTANDING!

[Geoff_R]

Like Matty G said... the GH1 was pretty impressive. I'd played around with Kholi's GH1 when he first got one a while back and I thought it was decent, but I didn't get the chance to use it on actual shoot. After I saw some of the native black and white footage online, I started thinking this would be a fun, creative route for this project. We moved fairly quickly with a very limited crew thanks to small form factor and good low light qualities. The anamorphics were the clincher for me; that final piece to the visual style that I was going for.

[ZazaCast]

Yeah! Just beautiful & wide as the open sky. I love it already.

[Kholi]

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/sinnergy_frame03.jpg

.... Nice.

[Kevin E. Curry]

Wow, great look!

[J.R. Hudson]

Awesome Geoff

Looking very forward to this from you !

[cinealma]

That grab looks out of sight!


John G.

[Tom Marshall]

Hey Geoff, glad to see you got that bar you were looking for... let me know if you need any help with post, man... :beer:

[Sprocketboy]

Great "noir" look. Silhouettes and the lights are blooming. Sweet pic. I've been eyeing the GH1 for quite awhile now. I would enjoying hearing what challenges Mattg had during production.

[Matty_g]

It was actually really easy to work with.
I think shooting it black and white helped. We'll see how well it plays with color verrrrry soon.

I pretty much only changed the iso and the iris all day. The mattebox situation we had was kind of funky so we went without filters the entire shoot. I wish I had a pola and maybe a black pro mist but I was fine without then.

I'm also not so used to judging histograms so that took a little bit of getting used to. But it's tiny, good battery life, long record times. Wish it had a monitor out but it's kind of nice just huddling up with the director and he/she just having to trust you that you got what they wanted.

[Sprocketboy]

The monitor output is a bummer. Is it still easy to get good focus using the built in LCD on GH1? I believe its a great camera to get in and out of a shooting location ,and yet it delivers a professional image. The manual control over focus, iso and iris is a big plus for those situations.

Sorry to hear about the filters. I can see how the polarizer would have been a big advantage in that indoor shot. Apparently, it appears that you made it work. Kudos.

[Brandon Rice]

Wow Geoff, it's looking good! Can't wait to see it :)

[Troy Ruff]

Great grab! I cant wait to see this film, welcome and good luck on the fest.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Nice grab!

Is there a focus aid on the GH1 like there is on the HV20? Forget what it's called.
It gives you an extreme closeup of the shot for you to adjust the focus to at the touch of a button.

Just curious.

Looks like a really nice camera. Throw in the anamorphic lenses and look out! Really great stuff.

MAH

[Nitsuj]

Yes there is a focus assist on the GH1. I have one and used it on my film as well. I had to use the stock lens though. I want a good lens after seeing all the great shots like this.

[Matty_g]

There is a focus assist just like that on the gh1. Wish it worked while recording.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

There is a focus assist just like that on the gh1. Wish it worked while recording.Okay, identical to the HV20 in both ways. Nice to know that it at least has it.

Thanks for the info.

Best of luck with this one.

MAH

[The_Happy_Haole]

That screen grab looks great! Can't wait to see what you guys (& GH1) submit. Looking forward to this one.

[Geoff_R]

Update here... thanks for all the support everyone and we're excited to share this one with you.

I hit a pic lock friday and got the movie over to the composer, Anthony Perera, and to the dialogue editor, Matt Parra. Matt just finished showing me his work and everything sounds really good. Solid production sound is uber important on these types of projects (fast ones). We don't have to do any foley for this project which is a huge timesaver. This will allow the sound designer/editor more time to focus on the pure creative aspects of the soundscape. No ADR will be needed either, just a re-recording of the temp voiceover once Kholi and I finish redrafting to accommodate the running time.

I'm also glad to say I got this thing under six minutes. GFH and TTWC were such a struggle with me to get in under six and I was worried this would be the third film I've made that was ineligible for competition. Now I just gotta get the thing done and ready by the deadline.

Still unsatisfied with the poster... but working on it every now and then in my free time.

[TMerry]

I love the SG Geoff. It's sooo tasty!

Were the florecent light on the left wall already at the location, or did
you add those?

[Marlon Ladd]

Man, you're definitely showing us how it's done. You're ahead of me and I filmed at the end of September. Good job!

[lyonfilms]

Yep. Sweeeet frame grab.

[Geoff_R]

I love the SG Geoff. It's sooo tasty!

Were the florecent light on the left wall already at the location, or did
you add those?

The fluorescents were already there. Luckily we were able to get them powered up. It's a really old building and at first they weren't working.

[sfoster]

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/sinnergy_frame03.jpg
This grab inspires me to do a Noir. Maybe my next film!

[Brandon Rice]

What's the latest Geoff?

[Geoff_R]

Trying to get everything wrapped up... I was shooting over the weekend on another short with Damien so didn't get any time to work on post stuff (my end). Getting back into today, cleaning up some shots and hoping to work on a poster. I honestly don't know at this point if we'll get the piece done in time. I'm very hesitant to put something up if it's not solid and at least 80% done in my mind. I'm not against tweaking this one (post fest) and refining some bits... but I won't be uploading a work in progress.

[Nitsuj]

Don't forget the poster. ;)

[Humanwire]

I'm firing on all cylinders over here on the sound editing/sound mix to get it done by Thursday night. It's going to be a tight couple days.

[Herman Witkam]

I'm firing on all cylinders over here on the score/sound editing/sound mix to get it done by Thursday night. It's going to be a tight couple days.

Good luck :D

[lyonfilms]

You can do it! Want to see it.

[Tom Marshall]

Good luck :D

I second that!

[Marlon Ladd]

Good luck guys!

[Om Nom Nom]

love the look of the screen grab! good luck with finishing it up :)

[Geoff_R]

Just finished recording the final sound bits needed... cleaning up some vfx... gotta make a poster... wish I had one more day!

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Geoff, you know I'm a big fan. Get it done and entered!
I'm sure it will be great.

MAH

[Geoff_R]

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/sinnergytempposter_v4.jpg

Poster for now....

[Shaun Patrick]

That poster is outstanding. Can't wait.

[Marlon Ladd]

Poster for now?? Man, that thing's perfect! Reminds me of one of my favorite films - "Seven." Why you gotta' come in whoopin' everybody's butt?! LOL. Can't wait to check it out.

[Humanwire]

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/sinnergytempposter_v4.jpg

Poster for now....

Geoff, I think I came a little. We need to print one of those up!

[Geoff_R]

We need to print one of those up!
We will when I have time to make an official one. I still have to make a poster for Ghosts for Heroes. That'll come first!

[Rodney V. Smith]

dude that poster is BADASS! I love it.

[cinealma]

Glad to see you got a cut uploaded for the fest.

Looking forward to seeing it!

[Blaine]

Shot it with the GH1, hmmm. It'll be interesting to see how it looks. I loved the noir feel of your screen grab. Kholi, Geoff and Matty...quite a crew of who's who. :happy:

[Nitsuj]

Sweet I was hoping you would get this in. GH1 users unite! HO!

[Matt Harris]

killer b/w! makes me want to do something like that. im loving the lightning.

[Matt Harris]

sick poster, love the text all scrambled at the top!

[Kholi]

Shot it with the GH1, hmmm. It'll be interesting to see how it looks. I loved the noir feel of your screen grab. Kholi, Geoff and Matty...quite a crew of who's who. :happy:

Admittedly, I didn't do much at all! But, I'm really happy to see that Geoff made this in time. It's pretty awesome looking and I like his view on the material.

Can't wait to get into the writing process once fest viewing starts!

[Matt Harris]

a bunch of heavy hitters! kholi did you shoot it or not?

[Kholi]

a bunch of heavy hitters! kholi did you shoot it or not?


Nooooooo no no. The awesome imagery comes from MattY G

I helped out a little during the shoot but no major role in production. I did write the original draft/story and Then passed it on to Geoff. More details on that later for sure.

[Matt Harris]

they'll throw you a "story by" credit. :)

[Geoff_R]

Forgive his modesty... Kholi did have a large part in this. This is all built upon a concept and story he originally conceived of when the fest was first announced. We always have these lengthy brainstorming where we pitch ideas back and forth and Sinnergy was one of the ideas he threw out. I think we initially dismissed it because we both felt it'd be way to challenging to pull off. The first draft, written entirely by Kholi, had numerous locations which we felt couldn't be cheated and a much thicker plot that would have been choked with a six minute time frame. I was really drawn to the story (and still am) and I felt I couldn't disservice it with the creative limitations I'd face. ($)

So we put it aside and kept working on generating new ideas to pursue, but Sinnergy kept popping back into our heads... I eventually did a re-write and tried my best to keep the concept pure and after much back and forth tweaking we had a seven page script that I felt was creatively challenging, yet possible if done right. I'm thankful Kholi let me play on the material and glad he seems to enjoy the direction I took.

[Matt Harris]

well said sir!

[Kholi]

Forgive his modesty... Kholi did have a large part in this. This is all built upon a concept and story he originally conceived of when the fest was first announced. We always have these lengthy brainstorming where we pitch ideas back and forth and Sinnergy was one of the ideas he threw out. I think we initially dismissed it because we both felt it'd be way to challenging to pull off. The first draft, written entirely by Kholi, had numerous locations which we felt couldn't be cheated and a much thicker plot that would have been choked with a six minute time frame. I was really drawn to the story (and still am) and I felt I couldn't disservice it with the creative limitations I'd face. ($)

So we put it aside and kept working on generating new ideas to pursue, but Sinnergy kept popping back into our heads... I eventually did a re-write and tried my best to keep the concept pure and after much back and forth tweaking we had a seven page script that I felt was creatively challenging, yet possible if done right. I'm thankful Kholi let me play on the material and glad he seems to enjoy the direction I took.

That's is definitely accurate. For me, the craziest part is having the original plot be the same but the stories differ, both in ways that are equally effective and enjoyable. The direction and pace is also different, but once I saw the final cut I got it. With the music and everything in the mix (which people will see) I totally feel it living in Reisner's world which is a bit grittier than my own and much more personal. That's also another thing that I really got out of this process, not only writing with Geoff and watching him Direct and make choices as his own individual, but helping Matty with setting up lights and being under him as a dp.

There are several ways to skin a cat! This way is equally enjoyable to me.

Not actually skinning a cat... I mean... Ew.

[Matt Harris]

well it sounds like the movie is appropriately titled then!

[hoz]

great looking poster and i loved your flick, " The Things We Carry" . looking forward to your film!

[Geoff_R]

Just some wrap up thoughts...

Had a ton of fun putting this one together. Even though we had to move fast and race against the deadline, it was definitely one of my most streamlined productions. I think this is mostly due to the fact that I delegated more work here. My Producers, Mike and Damien, helped tremendously with the essentials and allowed me more time to focus on the creative aspects. It was also a huge bonus to have Matty G aboard to shoot the piece. When I'm DPing and Directing, something is bound to suffer. Anytime I spend with actors results in less interesting shots/lighting and vice versa. This is the first production where I had someone else DP for me and it was a great experience. The shots are wickedly similar to my storyboards. I extensively boarded this project out and developed a flow based on mine and Mattys pre-production conversations. During production, Matty was able to look at the boards and move from shot to shot with a fair understanding of what we were gunning for. I can honestly say that I'd prefer to never DP something I am Directing ever again. The film as a whole is significantly better due to that separation of duty.

We put this thing together on a tight budget. Everyone pretty much tossed in their time and sweat for nothing but some food and a good time on a set. We shot over two days in various LA locations, most of them free or very cheap. I need locations to make movies... It can be a simple rooftop or bridge, but it's gotta be at least something interesting to photograph. Yes, there are creative stories that can be told in a home or apartment... but it's more interesting to get out of your comfort zone. I spent a good chunk of my time scouting for this film. It'd be wonderful to have a location scout :)

I'm pretty wiped out from the post experience... lots of minor vfx and then a few big ones... the last week has essentially been a full time gig of getting this one ready for the fest. In my head, these projects always start off as little side things I'll do in my free time but they quickly escalate into life consuming, 'nothing else matters but this film' events :)

Hope people enjoy the film and looking forward to when the films go live.

[Beat Takeshi]

can't wait to see this Geoff. I bet its going to be a top choice.

[Mark Johnson]

I can almost feel the hookers and taste the blow.

[Mark Johnson]

Holy Sh*t Geoff!!!! Just watched this one and it blew me away. Whoa, great work, sir!

[Zak Forsman]

This is the first one I watched. Top-notch work, very well executed on all levels. Love that it feels like the prelude to a feature at the end. I was ready to be carried thru another two hours when the credits came up.

[Michael Anthony Horrigan]

Lots of big hitters in this one and it shows! Really nice work. Nailed the noir genre you were going for. Cinematography/VFX/sound/score all top notch.

The only thing that brought me out of it for a moment was the scene at 2:43. I couldn't for the life of me figure out what the sidekick was looking at? I played that back a few times. If the intention was that he was turning away in fear from the monster, or in disgust from the result... then I didn't quite get that from his performance.

Otherwise this is pretty flawless and should do really well. Nice job to all involved.

MAH

[Jason Ramsey]

excellent job... fx were primo.

Thought you embraced the theme to the absolute fullest and made it your own. Nice style, pacing, everything. Acting was a bit, meh... at times... But, all in all, really fantastic job.

Thanks for sharing.

later,
jason

[EditPhish]

Love the look - and love that you shot it with a GH1. It really looked amazing. The atmosphere and lighting were excellent. The score and sound were excellent too. For that you scored pretty high with me and all of our group of watchers.

The criticism I have is that it would have been nicer to see more than just a glimpse of the guilt monster. I kinda feel like a lot of film makers in the fest showed as little of their monsters as possible, and I was hoping you wouldn't go the same route. I was disappointed to never see it again.

I enjoyed it very much though - you did a fabulous job!

[Maximus]

Another one of my favorites.

I loved the opening title... great job Tom Marshall.

The film looked great! The cinematography and locations in particular (bar, hallways, alleys) gave it high production values. A definite "Se7en" influence, nothing wrong with that.

I did not like Archie's costume, mainly because it felt like a "film noir" costume. The fedora and trenchcoat seemed out of place, a little too on the nose. I must admit that the silhouette is ultra cool, ie. as in your screengrab and poster, but on the street, in the real world, it looks like an actor in an ill fitting costume. Literally, the trenchcoat seemed to be three sizes too big for the actor, the sleeves covered his hands.

The acting of the Archie character at 2:07 to 2:37 "Where is she...?" was over the top and verging on a Dirty Harry parody. Otherwise his voice over was very well done, and his line at 5:54 "Waitin' for me." is chilling.

Overall, great job, as usual.

In my top three.:beer:

[Marlon Ladd]

Another excellent film, Geoff. The B&W came out GREAT! Those shots in the bar were wonderful. Every angle and shot you chose was flawless. I thought the voiceover of the film was flawless as well, but the VO Archie (great name - my dad's) didn't seem to always fit the real life Archie. He seemed to cool and sophisticated and unshaken in the voiceover and he was also like that the very first time we see him in the bar. Then it seems to change as he seems to become unsure of himself a little and what's going on in the alley when he says, "Pull your damn piece" or something to that effect. Then he goes off yelling and pointing the gun. His character just strikes me as somebody that has been there and done that and at the beginning and end of the film he seems to always know something that we don't. In the alley he seemed for an instance like it was his first rodeo. Anyway, that's just my opinion and nobody else may see it like that at all. Just wanted to throw it out.

I could also very easily see this turning into something bigger. The story and characters are very compelling and we would like to see what's going to happen next.

BTW - love the opening shot in the bar with the glass in focus and everything else out of focus. You did your thing on that one. Nice job! Always a fan of your work.

[NOBELO]

Sweet! Probably the best looking film of the fest. It looks like it was filmed in Chicago or New York or something. That bar scene is friggin beautiful! The pacing was spot on as well as the dialogue for the voice over. Good job Geoff and Kholi.

A lot of people tried to use various forms of special fx in thist fest and I think some were successful and some weren't. I thought you did a great job with the special fx and would love to hear more about how you did the shot where the guy turns black. I'm sure this will do well in the fest.

[dust'n the callipygous]

awesome tone. awesome lighting. awesome movie. cg didn't take away from it either. i thought that was pretty cool

[ewoknrock]

Another excellent film, Geoff. The B&W came out GREAT! Those shots in the bar were wonderful. Every angle and shot you chose was flawless. I thought the voiceover of the film was flawless as well, but the VO Archie (great name - my dad's) didn't seem to always fit the real life Archie. He seemed to cool and sophisticated and unshaken in the voiceover and he was also like that the very first time we see him in the bar. Then it seems to change as he seems to become unsure of himself a little and what's going on in the alley when he says, "Pull your damn piece" or something to that effect. Then he goes off yelling and pointing the gun. His character just strikes me as somebody that has been there and done that and at the beginning and end of the film he seems to always know something that we don't. In the alley he seemed for an instance like it was his first rodeo. Anyway, that's just my opinion and nobody else may see it like that at all. Just wanted to throw it out.

I could also very easily see this turning into something bigger. The story and characters are very compelling and we would like to see what's going to happen next.

BTW - love the opening shot in the bar with the glass in focus and everything else out of focus. You did your thing on that one. Nice job! Always a fan of your work.

Hey, I just signed on dvxuser and wanted to comment that I loved your style of filmmaking and look forward to future entries, overall well done. My only critique is that I have to agree the main character seemed a little cheesy in the way he talked. His partner looked and seemed a lot more believable than he did in my opinion. I liked the plot and the personal demons he seemed to be fighting within his quest for the monster and catching other serial pedophiles, it was gripping and kept the audience unsure what was gonna go down next. I really liked that aspect of the film. Overall though, well done, keep up the visionary/artistic aspect of filmmaking, it made it great to watch. Thanks and all the best.

[Nitsuj]

Man this is right up there in my top list. I want to get some nice lenses for my GH1 cause I feel this stock lens just isn't cutting it for me. Did you use the B&W in camera or do it in post? I do have to agree with some of the comments that the main actor had some cheesy lines that didn't seem to fit with the film. The part where he says "Draw your damn piece." would be one example. If he could have just pulled out his gun and the supporting actor follow it would have pulled in some more drama I think. But this is still a very solid entry. Great job to you the cast and crew!

[Blaine]

Really nice job, Geoff. I loved your choice of style...noir. I've been waiting a long time with these fest to see someone finally pull it off. The look of this was top notch. Kudo to Kholi on his story, too.

This is the first entry I've had a chance to watch. You already set the bar pretty high.

[Mark Johnson]

This is the first entry I've had a chance to watch. You already set the bar pretty high.

Of course, it is no "In Extremis" but, then, what is?

[Kholi]

Really nice job, Geoff. I loved your choice of style...noir. I've been waiting a long time with these fest to see someone finally pull it off. The look of this was top notch. Kudo to Kholi on his story, too.

This is the first entry I've had a chance to watch. You already set the bar pretty high.

I knew you would be one of the ones to appreciate the Noir approach. It started off with a Noir edge and Geoff, through re-writes, kept the noir spirit alive.

It was the first time I've ever written Noir, I attribute it to being on pain killers the night I wrote the first draft; boy was that a blur.

[Blaine]

Of course, it is no "In Extremis" but, then, what is?

Oh no, you don't! Don't lay that one off on me! :grin::grin::grin:

Besides, I don't have the great fx skills that were required to bring that to the "screen."

[Chris_Keaton]

Love the story on this one. Props to the writer. This was imaginative and a complete story. I was left satisfied, but would've been happy to see more. The performances were good and the whole thing worked for me. Great job. This is easily in my top ten.

[Geoff_R]

Thanks for all the thoughts and comments everyone. Appreciate it big time. This is still a work in project for me so it's good to hear what did and didn't work for people. In a week or so, I'll get back to cutting and putting together the final version of the film for future festivals. I just have to take a few days off... get it out of my head for the time being :)


...would love to hear more about how you did the shot where the guy turns black....

All the VFX was done in Shake, no CG in this beyond what Tom Marshall did for the opening credits. For the guy, we basically created various stages of textured maps which were then matted and warped to his face/body. A large number of opacity mattes then control how and where the effect occurs. Trial and error wasted the first day or two and by then we figured it out and re-did the whole thing from scratch.

[Geoff_R]

Did you use the B&W in camera or do it in post?

In camera. I wanted to be able to see exactly what I'd be working with. Black and white is tricky because you can no longer use color as a separation medium. You have to compose your shots more carefully and work towards creating contrast using light and dark portions of the frame.

[Nitsuj]

In camera. I wanted to be able to see exactly what I'd be working with. Black and white is tricky because you can no longer use color as a separation medium. You have to compose your shots more carefully and work towards creating contrast using light and dark portions of the frame.

Good I was hoping you would say that. I have actually messed with the noir quite a bit and have little tricks I have picked up along the way. I debated a noir this time around but I'll save it for another time. Thanks for the reply and of course sharing this gem.

[Brandon Rice]

Geoff,

It looked GREAT! I knew it would with Matty G. and yourself behind it :)

I thought that yourself and Kholi did a great job writing the screenplay. Having seen the first draft, I was happy where you both got it. It was tight, made sense, and the written dialog seemed natural.

The only hit I have against the film would be some of the performances seemed a bit flat for me. Maybe this is what you were going for. A lot of it seemed to lack a genuine feel. Maybe you wanted it to feel more otherworldly though?

Thanks for the watch, and I am glad to have seen it. One question to end my comments. What do you feel was the most difficult aspect in making this film?

Thanks Geoff! I look forward to work with you again soon :)

[Geoff_R]

Geoff,

It looked GREAT! I knew it would with Matty G. and yourself behind it :)

I thought that yourself and Kholi did a great job writing the screenplay. Having seen the first draft, I was happy where you both got it. It was tight, made sense, and the written dialog seemed natural.

The only hit I have against the film would be some of the performances seemed a bit flat for me. Maybe this is what you were going for. A lot of it seemed to lack a genuine feel. Maybe you wanted it to feel more otherworldly though?

Thanks for the watch, and I am glad to have seen it. One question to end my comments. What do you feel was the most difficult aspect in making this film?

Thanks Geoff! I look forward to work with you again soon :)

With the performances... yes, was gunning for a more theatrical approach (otherworldly is a good word to describe it as well). I'm still uncertain as if that was the correct route to go. I need to take a few days off from it and come back and watch it with a clean slate. I already know of certain heavy changes I'll be making to the film and I will be tweaking some performances areas that will affect what you're talking about. One huge aspect is straight dropping the VO altogether. I know some people won't understand the film without the VO but I don't really care... I like it much more without :)

Most difficult aspect of making this was the financial aspect. I was borderline at the point where I almost scrapped the project because I couldn't find a bar location and I was sick and tired of dealing with all the creative limitations. Ideas/stories... they start off with a particular look and feel to them in your imagination... as you begin to transfer that idea to a physical production, you'll inevitably come across problems/limitations that force you to alter or whittle your idea down... IMO, this is a reality even for people dealing with multi-million dollar projects... but there comes a point where the limitations choke and kill the project. You can only make so many changes before that original idea is now something entirely different... at that point, you need to reassess the situation and decide if the 'new idea' is worth pursing.

I hope this doesn't come across as a cliche response... I know we could all benefit by having access to funds, etc. I get it. But with this piece in particular... it was the most stressful element (or lack thereof). It just creates an umbrella of stress but all the while you've gotta keep a solid, positive vibe for everyone else to feed from.

[Brandon Rice]

Great insight Geoff, thanks!

Good work man :)

[cinealma]

I dug this one a lot.

What I found interesting was that it was almost like an anti-noir: daytime, blown out highlights and people in complete shadow. Old Lomos are pretty soft lenses (were they the later square front anamorphics or the older ones with the rear attachments?). This all kind of resulted in a "dream-like" quality to the film. Not sure if that was what you were after, as "film noir" has been referred to a lot in your thread. Definitely had some noir-esque elements, but for me, it has its own unique style.

The GH1 intrigues me and I may have to try one out on a project.

Good job. Thanks for sharing!

[Edgen]

Cool flick Geoff! Great to see you focusing on directing only. I did miss something in this film though that you naturally bring to the table. I'm sure you had lots of influences in the DP department and given that your film is B&W, it's hard to say what that is.

The narration in and out is a great way to tell an extended story. Imagine if this film just had the visuals and on-screen action... There's no way anyone could have understood. It just shows that narration and VOs are another tool for story telling.

Wonderful locations!

thanks for entering.
/j

[MrFluffy]

Wow, I loved that. You get the first 10 I've given. It was perfect.
Well done.

[cinealma]

In camera. I wanted to be able to see exactly what I'd be working with. Black and white is tricky because you can no longer use color as a separation medium. You have to compose your shots more carefully and work towards creating contrast using light and dark portions of the frame.

My two cents on this is to always do the conversion in post. You'll have a lot more control that way, including separation and filtering of specific colors and their curves.

One great way to approach a black and white film is to use black and white as much as you can in your production design. Use blacks, grays and whites in your wardrobe. Same for all the other things you can control, like built sets, set dressing, props, etc.

As for separation, besides light and shadow, always think "texture".

Just my experience and how I've learned to work with it.

[Charli]

This was a good Film Noir attempt, I don't think it was executed at 100% in that style. The bar scene in the beginning was very good.

The exterior running, come on, no one was running, that was a jog for all three characters, no intensity there.

I would also have liked to seen an older part of town exterior shot and not seen people dressed so modern.

I didn't get the need to explain him shooting his partner, what did that have to do with the monster? I would have liked to have learned 'more' about the monster itself, it almost felt like a throw-a-way compared to how this guy talked about kid-killers, unless you are being metaphorical in saying that it's the 'spirit' within all who commit crimes.

A little over the top for the main character, he's not Clint Eastwood so it didn't quite work. Had you had him tone it down just a tad it would have worked better.

Film Noir, however was cool.

[Matty_g]

John, processing the B&W in camera on the GH1 is much easier on the in camera compression than going color.
Also, a lot of the bloomy softness in this is post work combined with some smoke machine. The lenses are pretty sharp from 5.6-11 (where we shot almost all of this film at)

[cinealma]

John, processing the B&W in camera on the GH1 is much easier on the in camera compression than going color.
Also, a lot of the bloomy softness in this is post work combined with some smoke machine. The lenses are pretty sharp from 5.6-11 (where we shot almost all of this film at)

Well, the GH1 is something I definitely have on the "need to check out" list. :thumbsup:

The stills posted earlier in the thread came out with a lot more contrast and felt more noir-esque. Were those stills from the final render or pre-processed or ???

[Geoff_R]

Well, the GH1 is something I definitely have on the "need to check out" list. :thumbsup:

The stills posted earlier in the thread came out with a lot more contrast and felt more noir-esque. Were those stills from the final render or pre-processed or ???

The still from earlier in the thread was straight from the timeline, no modifications to it whatsoever. It should be literally identical to the uploaded Quicktime unless there was some gamma shift through the H.264 rendering.

Also, just to clarify because a lot of people are mentioning film noir... which is nice and expected :) but our intent with this was not to replicate and make a period set, film noir piece, but rather to lace it with noir-esque elements here and there. A blend of modern technique with older, traditional tones and aesthetics.

[Noel Evans]

Hey Geoff. Some fest winning shots in here if you dont mind me saying so. There was some subtle lighting along the way I really appreciated. Nicely executed all 'round.

I felt though through the second half the protagonist was pulling us away from the story I wanted to follow - his history with and about the monster. I did feel distracted when he was waffling about taking down "insert name" sorry away from where I watched it atm. So the story overall had some filler IMO. But very well done. One shot in paticular would easily fit in my top 10 DVXfest shots of all time.

[Kellar42]

Awesome stuff!

[Troy Ruff]

I really like this film, I have always wanted to do a Noir style film, and this just inspired me to do one. I really like the old fashion style, the narration and fx. The shadow killers where great! I had a lot of fun with this. The only bump I felt was it was a little to bright, lighting wise, on the external scenes in some shots, as a noir. Other than that, great! Super job. :)

[Dauntless]

I liked the lighting inside the bar. The monster was interesting, wish I could have seen more of him. Overall good job!

[Gord.T]

Hey Geoff. I really enjoyed this one. Noir is always cool and I thought your casting was right on. Actors and look, pacing ect was right there for me.

Just one little note, and I dont mean to be a prick, I thought the V.O was ill casted. It was very well spoken and acted otherwise but I felt the pitch of the voice and the southern (?) accent took me out of the entire piece. When 'I' think of Noir, it's always grunge detective NYC.

An example of the kind of voice I'd expect to hear, tonal and character wise, apart from Sin City, would be something like Tom Waits which I'll post a link to below.
Again, no offense to the V.O actor, it was very well done. I don't think it was the right casting in this case is all.

Thanks. Very very good, if not excellent. Top 5 in my rating.

Here's the ideal voice (I know, I wish someone could hire him to do it, haha.)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1wfamPW3Eaw

//okay, maybe not the best link, but you get the idea with Tom's voice. Look around youtube. He's also quite a funny and witty guy in interviews. But a great classic voice as well. Perfect for Noir I would think.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C49H3aWdiK8
also might be a better one but you know what I mean.

Anyways, again, great job. Good luck man.

[Geoff_R]

Wow, I loved that. You get the first 10 I've given. It was perfect.
Well done.

Awesome! Thanks so much for checking it out and glad you enjoyed it.


Cool flick Geoff! Great to see you focusing on directing only. I did miss something in this film though that you naturally bring to the table. I'm sure you had lots of influences in the DP department and given that your film is B&W, it's hard to say what that is.



It's probably the erratic, dutch tilt handheld insanity... looking back at my prior work, it appears to be a staple of how I shoot... when in reality it's such that it's a result of working with a crappy on-board monitor that doesn't tilt far enough.

I prefer this film cinematically over anything else I've done. From a pure visual standpoint (and technical lighting one as well), it's the best work I've produced IMO. I worked very closely with Matty in developing the shooting pattern/style... and we stuck to that plan hard while shooting. There's no way I could have made this movie (any good) without Matty as the DP.


...I felt though through the second half the protagonist was pulling us away from the story ....

Agree with you. Fixing that :)


I liked the lighting inside the bar.

Props to Matty G on that one. Also... good locations = good opportunity to light and create shots. It's such an overlooked aspect when most people make films (I'm guilty as well with many past works).


Just one little note, and I dont mean to be a prick, I thought the V.O was ill casted. It was very well spoken and acted otherwise but I felt the pitch of the voice and the southern (?) accent took me out of the entire piece. When 'I' think of Noir, it's always grunge detective NYC.

I think VO is ultra tough in general and I've seen very few films ever pull it off well. It doesn't help that I'm referring to things outside the frame which makes it all the more confusing at times. Sin City works since it's very in the moment... whereas here it's more rumination. Other than that, the only person I like listening to is Morgan Freeman :)

I like how James delivered a lot of his lines but I'm very likely to pull the VO completely in the final cut just because I feel the film is better without it. It forces you to take the visuals in rather than digesting an external dialogue.

[Tracey Lee]

Very impressive guys. I loved watching the shots. Very pleasing to the eye. What were the lenses you used?

[Geoff_R]

Very impressive guys. I loved watching the shots. Very pleasing to the eye. What were the lenses you used?

LOMO Square Front Anamorphics, 35mm, 50mm, 85mm.

I think that's correct... Matty will jump in and correct me if otherwise :)

[Matty_g]

80 not 85 :P

[Geoff_R]

80 not 85 :P

It's too early over here for me to think clearly...

[Kholi]

It's 11 AM over here! Fog shoot?

[Geoff_R]

You get my email about that? It was awesome... but I work till 4 or 5am usually, so 11am is still groggy time.

[Mark Johnson]

Matty friggin' rocks. ....

MUSHY rulez!!!!!!

[Tracey Lee]

Thanks for the info. Where did you rent from? Just curious what I should expect in rental price for an anamorphic lens that is good enough to do a rack focus.

[Matty_g]

I have this set for my red package but in l.a. you can get lenses for around 100-150/lens/day

[Shawn Philip Nelson]

LOMO Square Front Anamorphics, 35mm, 50mm, 85mm.

I think that's correct... Matty will jump in and correct me if otherwise :)

How did you get those on a 7D? Is this the famed Duclos-modded PL 7D??

[Matty_g]

noooo 7D
Panasonic GH1 with pl mount adapter from
www.hotrodcameras.com
same as shooting anamorphic with the red's 16x9 sensor you get around a 3.5 to 1 image that you then have to crop the sides off of. It does allow you to pan around the image in post if you need.

Is there a duclos modded 7D?

[Nitsuj]

GH1 ftw! Hehe the anamorphic lens sure looks good on this camera. I want to get one for my GH1 now. Bah a man has to have a dream right.

[Geoff_R]

How did you get those on a 7D? Is this the famed Duclos-modded PL 7D??
This was GH1 with a Hot Rod PL mount adapter.

** Just saw Matty already responded... :)

[xxrotinivol2]

Beautiful, every shot was like a friggin postcard. I thought the monologue detracted from the imagery, but was very impressed overall by the short. Reminded me of the better parts of The Watchmen with Rorshak [sp?]. Thank you for submitting. It gives me a look Id love to emulate in the future.

Thanx for the submission. One of my faves in the fest.

[Geoff_R]

Beautiful, every shot was like a friggin postcard. I thought the monologue detracted from the imagery, but was very impressed overall by the short. Reminded me of the better parts of The Watchmen with Rorshak [sp?]. Thank you for submitting. It gives me a look Id love to emulate in the future.

Thanx for the submission. One of my faves in the fest.
Thanks for the kind words and for checking it out:thumbsup:

[Kellar42]

Seems like the monologue is taking some hits. I have a sense that it's really difficult to do well and believably, but personally this one played well for me. I don't think it should be removed! Something about the style, black and white, etc...it's comforting to have that guy's voice leading us through, not distracting!

[Geoff_R]

Seems like the monologue is taking some hits. I have a sense that it's really difficult to do well and believably, but personally this one played well for me. I don't think it should be removed! Something about the style, black and white, etc...it's comforting to have that guy's voice leading us through, not distracting!
Thanks :) Appreciate the thoughts and glad to have someone feeling the monologue as a positive contribution.

[Gord.T]

I think VO is ultra tough in general and I've seen very few films ever pull it off well. It doesn't help that I'm referring to things outside the frame which makes it all the more confusing at times. Sin City works since it's very in the moment... whereas here it's more rumination. Other than that, the only person I like listening to is Morgan Freeman :)

I was a little absorbed with the VO the other night so I went back and watched it again a few minutes ago, without focusing on the V.O. I'm giving it a very rating as I liked everything else about it. And ofcourse my preconceived notions of Noir V.O is subjective anyways.

I'm wondering if a slight pitch shifting on the voice could work to bring it down in range a bit? As long as it didn't sound monstery. Just a crazy thought. I've focused too much on it as it is though, sorry.

Excellent job by everyone all around.
Thanks agian.

[Geoff_R]

No worries. It's an interesting topic concerning the piece and it's one that has drawn me to think upon how I'll tell stories in the future.

[MOVIE STUNTS]

First let me state that I love Noir and I love Horror and this film had an interesting mix of both. Your shots had a great sense of depth as one might find in Citizen Kane, and the acting I felt was superb!
That being said I think the running sequence was a little awkward especially the criminal his pace seemed slow and strange like he was tiptoeing away I sense that he is looking for somewhere to hide but he seems to spend his whole time doing this rather than trying to run away, and the detectives confidently pursue in a steady jog. I realize those shots are difficult but a running past camera, or tripping over a garbage can, would have really added a lot to this chase sequence.
Overall I liked this quite a bit; it was very well produced and completed!
Great job!

[ChipG]

Nice job guys!

[lyonfilms]

Beautifully shot in the bar sequence and in the room. Great VO. I thought the lead actor over acted a bit in the alley scene, his facial expressions seemed a little too over the top. I really quite liked this story and the execution was well done. I don't have much negative to say. I am a tad dense so I had to discuss the story with Kevin to really nail down the monster's motivation and how it related back to the detective. That could have been a little more clear.

[Kevin E. Curry]

Loved the look/feel of it with the black and white. I think the VO totally works with this genre, but I would have trimmed it by about 1/3, tightened up the exposition. It felt like just a little too much.

I have to admit that I missed at the end that the girl they found was the one from the picture. She seemed too old to be classified a child. Maybe cast an obviously younger person in that role.

Otherwise, I liked it. The idea of a "guilt monster" created by the devil is sweet, plays on the adage of being eaten alive by guilt very nicely.

[Geoff_R]

First let me state that I love Noir and I love Horror and this film had an interesting mix of both. Your shots had a great sense of depth as one might find in Citizen Kane, and the acting I felt was superb!
That being said I think the running sequence was a little awkward especially the criminal his pace seemed slow and strange like he was tiptoeing away I sense that he is looking for somewhere to hide but he seems to spend his whole time doing this rather than trying to run away, and the detectives confidently pursue in a steady jog. I realize those shots are difficult but a running past camera, or tripping over a garbage can, would have really added a lot to this chase sequence.
Overall I liked this quite a bit; it was very well produced and completed!
Great job!
Thanks for all the thoughts man. Appreciate it.

[Geoff_R]

Chip, Devon, Kevin...

Thanks for checking it and sharing your thoughts. Glad you dug the concept Kevin.

[killacam]

really nice and noirish. gj

[Rodney V. Smith]

beautiful movie Geoff. Good job all around. The jogging in the alley is what really got me though and brought me out of the film. It didn't seem as panicked as it should have, without the emotional intensity that was needed. The lead also seemed to be channeling Clint Eastwood and overacted a little on his line delivery. I did love the appearance of the monster and how your bad guy turned black and dropped.. great CGI work here with the reveal of the monster.

The rest of it was procedural and while it had great shots and showed us the victim... it felt like it served no real purpose. Those shots felt like a bit of an anticlimax cuz there i was waiting for the monster to show up again... and nothing happens. Forgetting the fact that it was a monster movie, just taking that out completely, all of our emotion seems to be directed towards the bar scene and that confrontation. With a different structure.. the revelation of the girl, then the hunt for the guy it would have given it a lot more urgency.. someplace for us to go TO. Right now we're already gone there and now we're just biding out time to the ending.

You'd talked about taking out some of the voiceover and I actually found myself watching this without sound just to see what it's like. That's what led me to realise what it was about the story that wasn't sitting quite right with me.

Solid production with great camera work, awesome lighting, great locations... but the story just doesn't go anywhere.

[vurfing]

I really liked the style of this movie. Sort of like a 1940's detective/blade runner style.
The bar scenes looked superb, really beautiful!
I could understand about the guy feeling guilty for not saving people and guilt is guilt but it didn't seem to tie up properly. I think if you could expand it into a longer movie and have more time to explain things, then it would be great.

[Geoff_R]

beautiful movie Geoff. Good job all around. The jogging in the alley is what really got me though and brought me out of the film. It didn't seem as panicked as it should have, without the emotional intensity that was needed. The lead also seemed to be channeling Clint Eastwood and overacted a little on his line delivery. I did love the appearance of the monster and how your bad guy turned black and dropped.. great CGI work here with the reveal of the monster.

The rest of it was procedural and while it had great shots and showed us the victim... it felt like it served no real purpose. Those shots felt like a bit of an anticlimax cuz there i was waiting for the monster to show up again... and nothing happens. Forgetting the fact that it was a monster movie, just taking that out completely, all of our emotion seems to be directed towards the bar scene and that confrontation. With a different structure.. the revelation of the girl, then the hunt for the guy it would have given it a lot more urgency.. someplace for us to go TO. Right now we're already gone there and now we're just biding out time to the ending.

You'd talked about taking out some of the voiceover and I actually found myself watching this without sound just to see what it's like. That's what led me to realise what it was about the story that wasn't sitting quite right with me.

Solid production with great camera work, awesome lighting, great locations... but the story just doesn't go anywhere.
The running bit was a tough one for me... I'm conflicted as to whether I made the right choice there. I think I'm too logical sometimes when I set out to make a film. There are so many big budget films I've seen and loved, yet I realize that had I been handed that script, I would never have made the movie. I analyze the heck out of every little detail. I'm a big fan of District 9 but I never would have made that movie due to some gross irregularities in logic IMO. I need to turn that off sometimes... with the running in this film... I didn't want a fast, rushing to get the guy feel... In my head, I'm thinking that Archy and Simon are moreso wanting to follow the guy on the run (at least for a little bit)... maybe he's running home. maybe he'll lead them straight to the kid... they could lose an opportunity here if they grab him too soon. I think too much sometimes :)

Appreciate the thoughts and comments.

[Geoff_R]

really nice and noirish. gj
Thanks!


I really liked the style of this movie. Sort of like a 1940's detective/blade runner style.
The bar scenes looked superb, really beautiful!
I could understand about the guy feeling guilty for not saving people and guilt is guilt but it didn't seem to tie up properly. I think if you could expand it into a longer movie and have more time to explain things, then it would be great.

Thanks for checking it out. We tried to get access to the Bradley building where they shot Blade Runner but didn't luck out this time around.

[jasonthewho]

Fantastic. Bloody fantastic. This one just hit me right between the eyes with two bullets of awesomeness.

I for one think the acting was perfect. Even the lead's large performance in the alleyway seemed tonally right for this particular film. And dialogue like the secondary cop's lines in the bar often seems expository and badly written, but here it worked great.

Only two complaints, and they are minor. The way you started the VO made me think that perhaps it might have been the bad guy's inner voice, although it quickly becomes clear who it is. Not sure what the best solution to this might be. Maybe there is none.

The other thing is that the shot of the girl wasn't really shocking enough given the buildup. I actually think in this case, I wouldn't even show her. Just leave it to our imagination to think about how awful she looks after what he's done to her.

Anyway, you rocked my socks off. Great flick.

[Chris_Keaton]

Oh I forgot to mention the light walk that was supposed to be running in the alley looked off. However the perp really did a good job of looking like he was going fast while going slow. I also loved the locations, it was also good to see those aliens from 'Signs' got some work after that stinker. :)

[Robert Sanders]

Just watched your short. Very well done. Congratulations.

Good going on choosing anamorphic as your format. It really adds a delicious quality to the image. Also, the B&W cinematography was particularly well done. It's hard for most people to get the contrast ratios right, and you guys nailed it.

Well done.

[Geoff_R]

Just watched your short. Very well done. Congratulations.

Good going on choosing anamorphic as your format. It really adds a delicious quality to the image. Also, the B&W cinematography was particularly well done. It's hard for most people to get the contrast ratios right, and you guys nailed it.

Well done.

Thanks, Robert. I have Matty to thank for that. I don't think I mentioned exposure/contrast to him at all during the entire shoot. I just trusted him.

[Geoff_R]

Fantastic. Bloody fantastic. This one just hit me right between the eyes with two bullets of awesomeness.

Thanks man! Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for commenting.


... it was also good to see those aliens from 'Signs' got some work after that stinker. :)

They don't come cheap... Most of our budget went to feeding it... when we ran out of the giant tubs of peanut butter, we had to think fast or they were gonna walk... so we fed them the 2nd A.D.

[REHov520]

just watched this one again. liked it a lot more the 2nd time, prolly one of my favs. i still get taken out of it a bit towards the beginning with the chase scene where they're all kind of briskly jogging, but after that no issues. i really like the mood you establish with this, and that shot with the light bouncing off the dude's hat near the end was awesome. and i especially like how little little the monster is featured but his presence is still felt.

[hoz]

wow ,

awesome.

your film is absolutely fantastic looking. top notch!! congrats on achieving such looks!

didnt read the thread so forgive any repeating...

story- really cool idea! some thoughts in no particular order - incredible looking monster- spot on. the backup detective - spot on. he was terrific.

the lead- spot on as well - especially when he was trying to get the location of the girl, i liked that a lot, the look at the perp ,the look down at the street - and then back and all the while he's gripped. cool. but his fedora - it looks great but it threw me off only because everything else is contemporary. he looked out of place with it. its minor but its not. the perp is wearing sneakers and a sports varsity kind of jacket and the dect is film noirish. that made me look at the parked cars and all else to see where i am, what year is this anyway. i dont want to be distracted. i want to follow this punk piece of garbage ...

the voice over is well done too but i think it's sort of out of order. i think it would be more dramatic if i learn of this det. complete frustration up front. that he's not going to give up. and then where does the vengeful alien come into this... its cool to leave it like it is, but if there was a link i missed it. not sure how the story works out or where its going. the det. comes clean about being a vigilante himself, about putting a couple of rounds into an ex cop. was this before the alien came into his life or after. and if so is there a link there?

the bar shot is abs amazing. brilliant looking stuff.

congrats on a terrific film.

[Richard J. Johnson]

Great film. The GH1 looks amazing here. I pretty much agree with everyone else about the chase but that did not take me out of it all. good job

[kennethhurd]

I like how you incorporated noir into this fest. I think it helps the film stand apart from the others. Your cinematography is excellent and for the most part, your actors are very good. I really liked your monster and I liked the effect you used to kill the guy in the alley.

However, I would have liked to have seen more of the monster. It seemed like it was part of a larger story, but the film left me confused as to how the monster ties into everything. I also thought that the pacing in the alley chase scene could have been faster. With some quicker cuts, it could have been a bit more intense, but after watching the film a second time, it seemed like that would make the scene feel awkward, since the rest of the film has a slow and steady pace. Maybe you could have just tightened it up to where the guy being chased was already hiding behind the wall? Just a suggestion. Overall, I think you've got a pretty good piece.

[Rakesh Jacob]

Nice one, really liked alley scene and the criminal's lair scene.

[Geoff_R]

... and i especially like how little little the monster is featured but his presence is still felt.

Cool. That's what we were hoping for.

Hoz, thanks for the in-depth comments and review.

Thanks, Richard. Yep, the GH1 is quite impressive. It holds up very well at 1080p as well.

Kenneth, thanks for the comments. Some good thoughts there.

Thanks, Johnny. Glad you enjoyed it.

[ZazaCast]

Brilliant! A beautiful film to watch. Well written. Well executed. Congrats!

I don't read the other comments, so sorry if I repeat anything, but that would be a good thing... I think?

Although this isn't my favorite style of film, it makes me think I'm back playing Max Payne...that frickin game wasted hours of my life...but I digress. This one really caught my attention. Right from the opening shot, I was hooked. Cinematography was spot on. The aspect ratio kicks ass! Sound, lighting... everything just clicks.

If there was anything that tweaked me it when the VO started and we're looking at the bad guy. I thought it was him talking at first... but caught on a second later. Maybe showing the good guy looking at him first as the VO starts... then cut to the bad guy slowly turning his head. Just a thought.

The other thing...your bad guy runs like a little girl! I didn't believe he was trying to get away from anyone. Then again maybe that's how child molester's run?

Either way....fabulous film that I will watch again & again. Really great job... this is a film to be proud of.

[Shawn Philip Nelson]

Wow! Geoff, Matt, Kholi, great here guys. Well acted, very well shot, good noir'ish take. I like the more intense subject matter.

The camera didn't handle the highlights well, so it would have been my preference to not lean that heavy on the highlights.

Great fx work!

On the story I was absolutely loving it until the turn where the inspector was being hunted too. This story works well on solid good/evil black/white lines and to suddenly say the inspector was vulnerable because of feeling guilty for not doing enough just nose-dived the story for me. Now if you just had to end with him being hunted too then maybe he was a reformed pedofile trying to make amends and the demon is holding off for the time being? But to punish the guy for effectively doing right just doesnt fly.

Very solid entry Geoff, your best yet. Looking forward to more!

[Geoff_R]

Zaza, Shawn, thanks for checking it out and sharing your thoughts. Appreciate it.

[Mark Harris]

Nice work, guys. I like the style. I might have preferred revealing the monster at the moment, rather than telling us about it, let us think this is a standard cop story, then let the VO kick in when the monster comes out as a surprise. Let us wonder what's going on up to that point as they race to get the info. But that's just a minor quibble.

Another thing I thought might have been improved that alley scene right before the monster shows up. They are in a real race for time to get the info, but their actions for getting the info seemed kind of vague. Like it might have been nice for him to have a pat trick he uses on guys to keep their attention. And then see that trick start to work as they get closer and closer to getting the info, the guy holding on, with them, giving it up, then BAM! It's kind of a matter of details vs. vagueness. Given the character more specificity.

Really nice work!

[Lawsuit_Boy]

Hey Geoff! Nice to see you back again. It has been a few days since my viewing of the film, so if I miss things or am vague, I apologize. Now, time to tear your film apart! (Just kidding.)

From the first shot, one can surmise that this is a film was skillful filmmakers operating behind the image and sound. It always fascinates me to see indie troupes putting together noir films. What's interesting about your film (and I think actually helps sell the surrealism of some elements) is the fact that the film and characters inherit styles seen in classic 30's and 40's Hollywood cinema, yet they're in quite modern locations. Production design on a small film can only be so vast, so it's understandable. In a way, it detracts from the film's validity, but conversely, it also lends to the protagonist's "altered state," which he does seem to be in. It's almost as if he's an old, salty veteran PI that's stuck in the past, and the apparition-type character is the personification of time catching up with him, proving that he should be retiring and letting the chase go to someone younger; to someone more agile.

I doubt this is where you intended the film to go, but I thought it was an interesting slant.

The cinematography was quite good. The images were crisp and made great use of hard sources with less fill. A few shots from time to time felt just a little misplaced or misaligned in the guidance of the audience. At times, I felt some perspectives were a little odd (there's a bit in the first scene in the bar where we get a s/rs of the protag. and the ...rapist? I believe he was?) The shots might have benefited if the protag wasn't framed in center and the two were a little more balanced on halves of the screen. This is just a very minor instance of pickiness. The film did indeed flow very well and the direction of the camera was very strong. For instance, I loved the floating, meandering steadicam work. It just felt natural in this piece instead of trying to rigidly mimick a dolly.

I think the acting and some of the writing were my only hang-ups. The lead, though strong in some scenes, just went so far over the top at times with his tight-lipped, hard-hearted grimaces and stern speech patterns that it got a little too campy. Some of the dialogue seemed a bit difficult to deliver as well. Can't remember specifics anymore.

The story itself, outside of my intepretation that I just came up with, didn't sit quite right with me. I'm not sure what it is. I felt like some elements were a little discordant and needed some work.

Overall, it's a really good effort and demonstrates some effective storytelling, pacing, and direction. I feel like this film would benefit from reigning in some of the acting and adding about another 45 seconds to fill some odd spots.

Hopefully I can rewatch it and point out specifics for you. I feel like I was too vague. Anyway, nice job! :thumbsup:

[Geoff_R]

Thanks for checking it out, Mark. Appreciate the thoughts.

Jon, you're actually not too far off from the detectives (archy) character. He is moreso a hard-nosed, stuck in the past character whereas his partner represents a more modern angle. I think some people think we were aiming to create a period piece but Archy is really the only period element IMO. Everyone else is dressed normal and his partner talks on a cell phone in the hall. I'm tempted to shoot an establishing shot of the rapists building that has modern cars in front just to clear up that issue.

Appreciate the time you took to lay down some thoughts.

[ramsaur]

This was great! The whole production was on spot. The acting was great, all the crew work, and great monster! The effect of how the guy died was crazy! But really cool. Very much enjoyed!

[Lawsuit_Boy]

Thanks for checking it out, Mark. Appreciate the thoughts.

Jon, you're actually not too far off from the detectives (archy) character. He is moreso a hard-nosed, stuck in the past character whereas his partner represents a more modern angle. I think some people think we were aiming to create a period piece but Archy is really the only period element IMO. Everyone else is dressed normal and his partner talks on a cell phone in the hall. I'm tempted to shoot an establishing shot of the rapists building that has modern cars in front just to clear up that issue.

Appreciate the time you took to lay down some thoughts.

Makes sense. He definitely felt like the relic in the room. I'm really glad to see you took that approach. Makes his character more dynamic and interesting. And I think that single establishing shot you mentioned would probably seal the deal while only adding a few seconds to the run-time.

[Robert Eldon]

Geoff,

I really liked this one from the opening shot. Great use of the aspect ratio in every shot! The color (or lack thereof), characters, costumes, and locations gave this a great feel. Very film noir. The only time I was taken out of the 'period' was when they are running down the alley, about TC 1:23, with the mini van, and cars in the shot.

The cinematography in this is beautiful, and as I mentioned, great use of the aspect ratio. None of the screen real estate was wasted. With so many great shots, it's hard to mention my favorites, but I really liked the opening shot and there was a long alley shot at about TC 1:28 that was really nice. Good use of motivated camera movement as well.

I liked the subtle reveal of the 'monster' and although we didn't see it much, there seemed to be a 'presence' throughout the film. I'm curious if the monster was just a monster or if it represented something? I have my thoughts, but would like your explanation of the monster.

Thanks for a great film to view. Great Job!

[lawriejaffa]

This is a very attractive moody film, with beautiful cinematography and effective performances.

The story is fairly effective - but hardly original - this is the weak point for me really. We have here the classic tale of a dead kid tortured noir cop - almost resembling by a whisker Rosarch from 'The Watchmen' in language, style, theme etc.

I think greater attention should have been paid to the fundamental concept for the film, and ensuring that while retaining the language, and style of noir, a more original take and spin was placed on the story. The monster is not original enough for this to be be distuingished as much as it should (for sake of its other oustanding qualities) as something of a homage/copy of other recent pop cultural noir figures like Rosarch etc.

This is not really what you want your audience to think, oh this is just like that or this. That said this is a technical, well written and well performed / produced film. So it really surprises me (and of course its only my opinion) that such an injury to the films originality was allowed to persist.

[Susanne G.]

I agree with Lawrie that the film is a technical, well written and well performed / produced film with beautiful cinematography.

This film is full of chlichés, but I think that isn't a problem - obviously you wanted to do a film like this and it worked. What I really missed, are the sparks and the twist. Seeing that it was made very professionally, I feel that it is a pity. This could have been a masterpiece, but I have to admit that the film didn't hold my attention.

Susanne

[Aaron Marshall]

Amazing job Geoff. I'm impressed. The story was a bit obscure, but in a cool David Lynch kind of way. This is definitely one of my favorites of the fest.

[Geoff_R]

Thanks for checking it out, Aaron. Glad you enjoyed it!

[Geoff_R]

Some BTS here... the room where the detectives find the girl is actually my room. We cleared most of my stuff out and put in fake drywall and other miscellaneous bits to make it fit better with the building we had access to.

I wish we'd taken some stills of the before/after but I had too much on my mind. Here's some test shots we did (the night prior to adding the drywall) with the GH1 and anamorphics. You can see how ultra wide the frame is prior to the crop...

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/frametest01.jpg
http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/frametest02.jpg


Some stills from that set...
http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/bedroom1.JPG
I actually left the boards up while we shot this scene and it's in the corner of one of the shots with Archy....

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/bedroom3.JPG
Matty and Kholi setting up the shot...

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/bedroom2.JPG
Small space. Very cramped. Wish we had a few more feet to get a little wider...

[Geoff_R]

More BTS....

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/sinnergybts1.JPG
Working out the scene with Andy Brosseau...

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/sinnergybts2.JPG
Matt Garrett, Tim Hyten and Matt Parra checking out a shot. There was a lot of trial and error with the running bits as we had to get the right pacing to get a smooth shot and also the frame line for boom.

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/sinnergybts3.JPG
Matty, Tim and I setting up for a shot in the alleyway, our biggest scene. This was a tough location... no permits obviously and we had a bunch of different setups to pull off. We had to move fast in case some cops showed up and kicked us out. That kind of pressure sucks on a big scene. Permits are great if you have the budget for it.

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/sinnergybts4.JPG
http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/sinnergybts5.JPG
Having a flid out LCD is extremely handy for steadicam work with the GH1.

http://www.rawimagefilms.com/graphics/sinnergy/bts/sinnergybts6.JPG
The crew at the bar... Almost lost this location on the day of... the guy who owns the location wouldn't wake up (the producer and I spent an hour banging on his door) and then he was drunk/hung over and didn't remember us at first. He then proceeded to watch us intently the entire time and rushed us out an hour and a half earlier than expected. Great guy!

[Brandon Rice]

Great BTS Geoff :) I spotted the infamous slider in there! :D

[Geoff_R]

Great BTS Geoff :) I spotted the infamous slider in there! :D
Yep, can't beat it. Thanks again B-man. Speaking of the slider... I have to get that back to you soon! Let's meet up this weekend or during the week.

[dsto]

Wow. Amazing look. The bar location was super. Great acting. This deserves a longer, more fleshed out story. The noir style was executed nicely. Well, done and congrats.

[Sprocketboy]

I thought I wrote a comment in this thread. Many have beat me to the primary criticisms so I'll attempt to not to repeat them.

I don't think you can avoid the noir-ish pigeon hole you put this film in... with the black and white photography, melodramatic performances, gumshoe vo and the Mike Hammer-like lead character. l love all of it. The alley chase and too much VO are sticky points to contend with, as mentioned by others, but you kept an interesting dark mood throughout. This story bears more examination and remains a tall order for 6 mins. I'm still loving it. Watched it twice. I didn't do that with many of the fest films.

[Tom Marshall]

Hey Geoff, finally getting around to checking out the entries...

This was beautifully shot. Everything just melded together and nothing was out of place. The VO was perfect and I wouldn't change a thing about it. VO's are really a staple of the noir genre and it really helped to sell that.

As for performances, I think the alley scene seemed a bit forced and unnatural. But other than that, the performances worked well... especially with the voice over.

[Slimothy]

This was one of my favs. Might be biased but I really thought this was well crafted. Nice work dude.

[Geoff_R]

Thanks guys. Appreciate the thoughts :)

[jasonthewho]

Surprised this didn't place higher. This was my number 2.

[Zak Forsman]

Geoff, this was sincerely my favorite of the fest. I loved every beat right up to the last frame.

[Geoff_R]

Thanks, Zak. That means a lot coming from you as I've got deep respect for your skills and work.

[Shawn Philip Nelson]

Ditto to Zak, i thought this was top 3 for sure.

[dantewaters]

In camera. I wanted to be able to see exactly what I'd be working with. Black and white is tricky because you can no longer use color as a separation medium. You have to compose your shots more carefully and work towards creating contrast using light and dark portions of the frame.

Wow nice... I like the work (I know i'm late and all) the pacing was well done.