HD Short Shorts Voting

[koolpenguin89]

The time for voting is here! All 10* of our entries are prepped and ready to go, so let the voting begin.

*1 of the contestants has their film on private, so you will not be able to view it. The film is "Skeletons" by StrayDogPictures. Don't let this discourage you from voting, simply vote on your favorite of the films that you did see.

To vote, you must watch every film that is on the HD Short Shorts channel in its entirety on Vimeo. If your computer cannot handle HD, then you may watch it in SD, but you must watch all of the films in SD. After viewing every film, you can vote for your favorite*.

*To vote for HD Short Shorts, you must have 10 or more posts in the HV20/30 forums.

Thats it. Enjoy the films, and good luck to the contestants.

http://vimeo.com/HDShortShorts

-----------------------------------------------------------------

Title: Tiggering
Entered by: Tiny aka Carson Kuehne
Equipment Description: HV20 W/Macro Lens
H4Zoom

------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: The Ginger Virus
Entered by: Jordan314
Equipment Description: HV30
Production Description: This was the second thing I shot with my new HV30. I did post production work in Final Cut Express, photoshop and swift 3D. The music was done in Logic Pro.
Password: hv20contest3

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: The Lantern
Entered by: Costellobros

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: Minute Philly Haunted Tour
Entered by: sillyman
Equipment Description: HV30, Azden SMX-10, Slik 504QFII
Production Description: Naked HV30 handheld and tripod mounted. Edited with Sony Vegas Pro 8.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: Hocking Hills
Entered by: Andrew Caminiti (APXIAC)
Equipment Description: Stock HV30
Production Description: AE & Premiere CS3

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: Skeletons
Entered by: StrayDogPictures
Equipment Description: HV20
Production Description: An improvised musical performance for Halloween.

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: Jacko
Entered by: Nick Rocco Scalia (SilentBob102)
Equipment Description: HV20, Rode VideoMic, Manfrotto Tripod
Production Description: My first HD short with the HV20, at long last. Shot in three hours, edited over three days, perfect pumpkin found after several weeks of searching. Enjoy!

----------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: The stalkers
Entered by: George Edward Maier (GMaier) me!
Equipment Description:HV20 with UV, SKYLIGHT, WARM, LENSE HOOD, £190 TRIPOD, VERY BASIC LIGHTING EQUIPTMENT.
Production Description:This was shot over about one week and edited today! I had to run Espicily because movie maker kept crashing on me! The stalkers are all played by...... My mum! ha ha, and i played the guy! I suppose thats what you get when your friends arent available on call out.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: Trick or treat
Entered by: J_inwood
Equipment description: HG10, Twoneil static with macro, canon 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 & canon 50mm f/1.8 for a few shots. Sony Vegas, After effects & Soundbooth.
Production description: 8 hours of shooting, took me a couple long editing sessions to finish it.

------------------------------------------------------------------------

Title: The Garden Book
Entered by: Ali A (hv20.com username: seraphoenix77)
Equipment Description: Stock HV30.
Production Description: Cut and scored in Sony Vegas Pro 8.0

------------------------------------------------------------------------

http://vimeo.com/HDShortShorts

Dylan

[gmaier]

They are all very good, when voting it was close between Minute Philly Haunted Tour and my own. Im going to tell you why; i think Minute Philly Haunted Tour was best footage wise, best camra control. I personly think mine was the worst and camra control, but the most creepy.

I fliped a coin!

[1]

Good stuff.

I liked the ones that had a complete story, beginning, middle, end. Not an easy task within one minute, but there's one that stood out as having accomplished that very well, despite it definitely not being the best looking or best acted.

[gmaier]

Good stuff.

I liked the ones that had a complete story, beginning, middle, end. Not an easy task within one minute, but there's one that stood out as having accomplished that very well, despite it definitely not being the best looking or best acted.

Jacko was my third choise, well picked mate!

[1]

Hey how'd you know I meant Jacko.....oh, duh, there's only two of us that voted!
:)

[sillyman]

Hahaha. The Lantern was funny but I had to give my vote to Jacko for the classic prank factor. Interesting what you could do with just a few angles.

gmaier,
Thanks for the comment. I was half afraid to step unto some of the graves to shoot it.

[koolpenguin89]

Whoa, Mal, im lovin the banner! Thats pretty cool.

Dylan

[photoz]

My vote is in.. thanks to all the participants!

No surprise to see a couple Strangers themed shorts.

[APXIAC]

Trick or Treat looked very professional!
But Jacko got my vote.
Goofy as hell.

I wonder why mine isn't up yet? :(

[koolpenguin89]

Its up now.

Dylan

[APXIAC]

Awesome.
Thanks Dylan.
:hv20-smilie77:

[SilentBob102]

Hi everybody,

Just wanted to say thanks for the kind words and especially the constructive criticism... This is my first short with the HV20, and seeing some of the entries here has really inspired me to learn how to get the most out of the camera visually (some of those shallow depth of field shots look INCREDIBLE, guys). Really enjoying all the videos, hoping to get to see that last one before I actually cast a vote of my own.

[costellobros]

I think we should have an open voting debate in order to come to a conclusion as to who won. Keep in mind we’re not here to see who’s movie was the funniest, as this is not a comedy forum. We’re here to recognize who used the camera to the best of it’s ability.

My brother and I will be casting our vote for “Trick or Treat” as it is cinematically superior to all of it’s competitors. Bravo, John! You really did a great job.

-The Costello brothers

PS. We should totally come in second place but you know, whatever…

[1]

My brother and I will be casting our vote for “Trick or Treat” as it is cinematically superior to all of it’s competitors.

It seems that is your criteria for judging the films, and I see no flaw in that reasoning whatsoever.

To me, however, like I mentioned, I wanted to see a full story with three acts, as that is more important to me than technical aspects.

I do agree that the criteria for voting should not be how funny the movie was.

[costellobros]

If you agree that the criteria for voting shouldn’t be how funny any particular movie was, why would it matter whether or not it had a start and finish as that does not pertain to the footage whatsoever? This isn’t a screenwriting forum, either. Realistically, the story is just a bonus.

[tiny]

I think we should have an open voting debate in order to come to a conclusion as to who won. Keep in mind we’re not here to see who’s movie was the funniest, as this is not a comedy forum. We’re here to recognize who used the camera to the best of it’s ability.

My brother and I will be casting our vote for “Trick or Treat” as it is cinematically superior to all of it’s competitors. Bravo, John! You really did a great job.

-The Costello brothers

PS. We should totally come in second place but you know, whatever…

I actually think the first 20 seconds of your film was far superior to anything else, but then it (for me) didn't really go anywhere that interested me.

[koolpenguin89]

If you agree that the criteria for voting shouldn’t be how funny any particular movie was, why would it matter whether or not it had a start and finish as that does not pertain to the footage whatsoever? This isn’t a screenwriting forum, either. Realistically, the story is just a bonus.

Lol, how are you going to tell the owner of the forum what kind of forum it is? You could wake up tomorrow morning and he could have turned this into a cupcake forum if he wanted to.

Dylan

[costellobros]

I actually think the first 20 seconds of your film was far superior to anything else, but then it (for me) didn't really go anywhere that interested me.

I agree, the first 20 seconds of our film was undoubtedly the greatest 20 seconds of cinema you have ever witnessed and most defiantly will ever witness, but I don't think a poor story has anything to do with the outcome of a vote concerning a camera’s visual recording abilities.

[tiny]

the outcome of a vote concerning a camera’s visual recording abilities.

I don't think this vote is about that. The vote to me is about which one I enjoyed the most. Cinematics, story, acting, sound, etc . .. all play into who gets my vote.

[cstone2]

i wouldnt be all that much against a cupcake forum. I happen to agree with Mal though. I think any type of film contest should be based on story and entertainment value. The production quality should be an added bonus. In movie making, production ( the cinematography, editing, sound and light design, etc,etc) are there to be an aid to a story. Nothing bothers more me then a unmotivated aspect of production. Except for maybe zooms while shooting, that really cooks my grits.

[1]

If you agree that the criteria for voting shouldn’t be how funny any particular movie was, why would it matter whether or not it had a start and finish as that does not pertain to the footage whatsoever?

Huh? I'm lost.
I've not set-up this contest, but koolpenguin89 who did clearly posted that the winner will be selected by popular vote. ("Winners will be determined by popular vote." ) (http://hv20.com/showpost.php?p=138713&postcount=1)
That means it is up to each member to judge based on his/her own criteria.
For you it is cinematography, for me it's a complete story. Neither is more right or wrong; just different set of criteria, that's all.

I thought I already clearly posted that before...

Must be one of those days again...

[costellobros]

Huh? I'm lost.
I've not set-up this contest, but koolpenguin89 who did clearly posted that the winner will be selected by popular vote. ("Winners will be determined by popular vote." ) (http://hv20.com/showpost.php?p=138713&postcount=1)
That means it is up to each member to judge based on his/her own criteria.
For you it is cinematography, for me it's a complete story. Neither is more right or wrong; just different set of criteria, that's all.

I thought I already clearly posted that before...

Must be one of those days again...


If that's the case, why is it necessary to use an HV20/30? If the votes are on personal criteria, why would it matter if we used a camera of our choice?

[1]

I'm not sure what it is you're wanting, costellobros.

If the criteria for voting is something you don't like, you should mention that in the main hv20.com shorts thread.

I believe these things had been discussed before, and may not be universal to all shorts contests here. There was discussion and implementation of 'professional' judges for instance.

[PadawanGeek]

It was between Jacko and Hocking Hills.... I chose Jacko because it was funny =D

[costellobros]

I'm not sure what it is you're wanting, costellobros.

If the criteria for voting is something you don't like, you should mention that in the main hv20.com shorts thread.

I believe these things had been discussed before, and may not be universal to all shorts contests here. There was discussion and implementation of 'professional' judges for instance.


I guess all we were looking for was a chance to express our concerns for the voting system. Next time we’ll be prepared with a better story, even though we should of totally won…




It was between Jacko and Hocking Hills.... I chose Jacko because it was funny =D


We'll have to be funnier, next time... /gunshot

[1]

I guess all we were looking for was a chance to express our concerns for the voting system. Next time we’ll be prepared with a better story, even though we should of totally won…

Cool. You should post this in the main contest forums too. I'm sure your input is valued by the contest organizer. Just that what you posted here might be a little late for this contest.



We'll have to be funnier, next time... /gunshot

Not sure how many contests/festivals you've entered, but the funny ones normally do do quite well, despite them not always being technically well done, AMONGST THE POPULAR VOTES. You'll often find that the audience award might go to a comedy, whereas the actual big award, judged by other criteria and other people, goes to a totally different movie.

Would love to see your next entry, for sure!

[costellobros]

Thanks for the kind words. Can't wait for the next contest. A DoF shot of a guy taking a baseball to the groin is a shoe-in! :hv20-smilie87:

[APXIAC]

LOL well im deff enjoying this whole process.
Everyone did a great job and I hope everybody appreciates that.
I hope everyone enjoyed "Hocking Hills" too.
I certainly had fun making it.

[Jennzababe]

I went with the Lantern. Best production values of the lot.

One minute is way too short for these contests..

[1]

One minute is way too short for these contests..


Just in case you didn't know: this is an in-between contest called SHORT SHORTS. The whole purpose of this one WAS that it is super short, and could be done quickly. All regular short contests here are longer in duration.

Although having written that; I actually LIKE the short duration of one or two mins.

[leepback]

I haven't voted as yet because I was hoping to view "Skeletons" before doing so.

One of the three films I was considering voting for was "lantern" and while it has merit on many measures, I'm probably now slightly biased against it due to "Costellobros" whinning on this thread.

Jeez - I'd like to have the sort of cofidence in my own work that this fellow displays. NO on second thoughts I wouldn't if it compels me to write the drivel he has.

All the rules were laid out in advance for all to see including the voting method.

Why would one assume anything about the nature of voting on an open forum. While some might choose their winner on narrative others choose technical prowess and yet others a combination of many aspects. Others simply vote for a friend or forum buddy (or even their own).

Personally I like to look at the short as a complete package. The words "short" and "film" mentioned in the rules suggest to me something more than just technically brilliant "footage" but rather something that has an entertaining quality as well.

As stated above comedy is often king in these contests (not always my favourite) because people prefer a laugh to a cry or any other emotion. It's just a fact, so if you want to win it's usually the best option to take, but remember it's not always easy to pull off.

Congratulations and good luck to all that entered.

BTW - the 1 minute time frame is great and is brilliant for those of us with a short web attention span.

[gmaier]

Ha ha ha lol, someone give my vote a friend :)

I bet im gonna only get the one vote on my vid, ha ha.

[gmaier]

Others simply vote for a friend or forum buddy (or even their own).



Thats me! :)

[Mr. Mingo]

My brother and I will be casting our vote for “Trick or Treat” as it is cinematically superior to all of it’s competitors. Bravo, John! You really did a great job.

-The Costello brothers

PS. We should totally come in second place but you know, whatever…
Ha ha thanks guys :hv20-smilie77: Thanks alot for the votes, and the kind words. I personally was not happy with the story but I'm no writer, I actually am more interested in cinematography than writing or directing so thanks for commenting on that aspect as well.

Your video is a top pick for me. The beginning reminded me of a show I watched growing up called "Are you afraid of the dark?" if youre familiar with that one, so that automatically makes it cool. The girl was a good actor and that pose she did during the "scare" part was too funny. I showed my brother that and he could not stop laughing. Good work, hopefully you will enter the next contest, look forward to seeing more from you guys.


Trick or Treat looked very professional!


And you didnt vote for me? Ha ha just kidding:hv20-smilie70:

Thanks alot APXIAC. I thought your video looked extremely professional as well. You have a lot of skills in post production. I can appreciate all the after effects work you put into it. Great editing!

[gmaier]

Ha ha thanks guys :hv20-smilie77: Thanks alot for the votes, and the kind words. I personally was not happy with the story but I'm no writer, I actually am more interested in cinematography than writing or directing so thanks for commenting on that aspect as well.

Your video is a top pick for me. The beginning reminded me of a show I watched growing up called "Are you afraid of the dark?" if youre familiar with that one, so that automatically makes it cool. The girl was a good actor and that pose she did during the "scare" part was too funny. I showed my brother that and he could not stop laughing. Good work, hopefully you will enter the next contest, look forward to seeing more from you guys.



And you didnt vote for me? Ha ha just kidding:hv20-smilie70:

Thanks alot APXIAC. I thought your video looked extremely professional as well. You have a lot of skills in post production. I can appreciate all the after effects work you put into it. Great editing!

What did u think to mine? :)

[Mr. Mingo]

Ha ha ha lol, someone give my vote a friend :)

I bet im gonna only get the one vote on my vid, ha ha.

Dude your video was awesome! I still havent voted yet so you never know.

I think its really cool you made this with your family, your mom is great for acting in it! Its hard for me to describe what it is I like about this video, its just got a great home movie feeling while being a step above your average home movie, if that makes sense.

And for the record I actually found it scary when the person was just standing still with the knife. Good job, you should make more videos.

[Mr. Mingo]

What did u think to mine? :)

Ha ha, was just typing up that response ^^^ when you posted that.

[costellobros]

I haven't voted as yet because I was hoping to view "Skeletons" before doing so.

One of the three films I was considering voting for was "lantern" and while it has merit on many measures, I'm probably now slightly biased against it due to "Costellobros" whinning on this thread.

You should never let your opinion of the directors effect your view on their work.



Jeez - I'd like to have the sort of cofidence in my own work that this fellow displays. NO on second thoughts I wouldn't if it compels me to write the drivel he has.

Woah, that's some spiteful stuff. What did we say to offend you?


All the rules were laid out in advance for all to see including the voting method.

Why would one assume anything about the nature of voting on an open forum. While some might choose their winner on narrative others choose technical prowess and yet others a combination of many aspects. Others simply vote for a friend or forum buddy (or even their own).

Personally I like to look at the short as a complete package. The words "short" and "film" mentioned in the rules suggest to me something more than just technically brilliant "footage" but rather something that has an entertaining quality as well.

As stated above comedy is often king in these contests (not always my favourite) because people prefer a laugh to a cry or any other emotion. It's just a fact, so if you want to win it's usually the best option to take, but remember it's not always easy to pull off.

We already touched on all of this in previous posts.


So, can we count on your vote? :hv20-smilie03:

The Costello brothers.

[leepback]

So, can we count on your vote? :hv20-smilie03:

The Costello brothers.

As I said your film was meritorious (is that a word?) on many levels so you are still in the mix but I do want to see if "skeleton" pops up in the next day or so.

[leepback]

Woah, that's some spiteful stuff. What did we say to offend you?

The Costello brothers.

Sorry but Aussies take a dim view of braggers.....simple as that.
We also hate whingers.....and you were being a pain going on about the voting system. Maybe I was in a bad mood but that's how I felt.

I think you were better of letting your film do all the talking!

[Kyleman]

"Trick Or Treat" got my vote because the Cinematography was really good. I'm more of a DP so that's more what I care about than a story.



-Kyle

[DLK]

Congrats to all who entered! I really enjoyed this contest! I think the short shorts was a good idea. I do think that two of the shorts really completed their stories in the one minute- Jacko and Trick or Treat. That is what the contest is all about, dealing with only having a minute to tell your story. The trailers were great but, they were-- trailers.
Once again congrats to all who got off their asses and actually created something.

[sillyman]

Congratulations all around for completing your respective projects! Now here's the cool/cruel part ... where our work gets taken apart and given rankings. I just want to convey my respect by giving my impressions.

** SPOILER ALERT -- DON'T READ UNTIL YOU'VE VOTED **





In the order they appear in the channel ...

Hocking Hills
Very competently done. Good effects and lighting. Colors of scene were appropriate. The cold expression on the actor with the knife was very good. The pulled by legs scene with the scream was nice. Did the chase scene use a stabilizer? Technically very good. Sad to say, it felt like just another horror trailer. This was my third choice.

The Stalkers
George was going for a thriller but the pacing seemed a bit slow. I didn't realize on the first viewing that someone was at the window. The reflection on the glass masked it. The discordant sounds plus the temporal jumps in "approach the killer" scene was good. But the stabbing and death felt cheesy. Maybe more gurgling and less screaming would have been better.

Jacko
Two friends. Good intro. Good acting. Lighting wasn't even with all the shadows but not too distracting. Looked a bit dim and not too colorful yet the acting and pumpkin stood out. The cuts felt consistent. The story was easy to follow up to the end and was funny as intended. A well balanced presentation. This got my vote.

Minute Haunted Philly Tour
(This is mine, I know what sucked with my minute but I'd like to hear what others think.)

The Lantern
Good opening. Tracking of the subject was good. Classic horror formula of the vulnerable little girl walking in a dark place. The lighting got a bit goofy when she walked into the relatively well lit room while still holding the lamp high. The effect kind got me out of my suspension of disbelief. So while her surprised "Naruto" pose was funny and the eyeball gag should have been hilarious the impact was diminished. Looked like it was shot in 24p without doing pulldown removal (I'm guilty as well). This was my fourth choice.


The Ginger Virus
HV20 footage at the start. Interesting yellowed look from incandescent lamp with some daylight coming from the window. Must have been white balanced for the monitor. The VFX lost me. Didn't know what to think.

Tiggering
The Ring reference got me in the horror mood. But it was too dark in the sense I couldn't see what was going on. Wasn't sure if I should have been scared or laughing at the Tigger suit. Vimeo compression probably made the dark areas too dark.

Trick or Treat
35mm with 24p. Good angles and DOF. The edit was good. To me it looked technically good like The Lantern but was missing some impact in the attack scene. It felt hurried or tried to convey too much in too short a time. Now if the clip with the sign and the kids walking away was moved to before the victim got cut it would have been more thrilling. If as the kids walked away it showed the guy bleeding and maybe the killer stepping out the door, you've got a hook (What happens to the kids?). This was my second choice.


The Garden Book
Silent film! Nice music. The lighting was a bit too dim (Vimeo compression?). What was that blue spot on the guitar? The beat down was funny. The dimness of light on the leftside actor made it hard to make out his facial expressions. The overhead light was good for the rightside actor. The pause to cut to the stabbing didn't feel necessary. It felt like filler to make it 1 minute. Could have been shorter. Well done but not as fluid as Jacko.


:hv20-smilie70:

[SenorKaffee]

I'm still waiting for other entries, but so far it is a tie between The Lantern, Jacko and Trick or Treat. I need to find a three-sided coin.

Trick or Treat looked great. The story felt too big to fit in the time given. But, well, it just looks really great. :D

Jacko has a very funny idea and the cut also works well. Compored to some other entries the color looked a little bit dull. I'm not sure what it is, maybe it just need some more color correction.

The lighting is what makes me like The Lantern so much and I can also identify with the concept of the wandering child. I love to wander around in places I don't belong. Plus the ending was just cute.

[tcindie]

One minute is way too short for these contests..

One minute is not way too short, it is in fact quite a long time to tell a story. The problem is that the majority of these entries try to cram something that would need longer than a minute into that timeframe, and it leaves most of them to fall flat. That's a common issue regardless of the length limitation on a contest, however.

Far too few people understand the idea of getting into the story as late as possible, and getting out as soon as possible. That ideal should be applied not only to the entire story for a short film, but also every single shot that makes up the film. Because it's a SHORT, there's not time for the extra filler that ultimately isn't necessary.

[costellobros]

Sorry but Aussies take a dim view of braggers.....simple as that.
We also hate whingers.....and you were being a pain going on about the voting system. Maybe I was in a bad mood but that's how I felt.

I think you were better of letting your film do all the talking!



You mean to tell me I couldn't find one Aussie who enjoyed a good bragging? Seriously, though, any "Bragging" we did was strictly for humor. We're going to have to let our movies do all the talking, seeing as how whatever we say seems to get misconstrued.

How do you pronounce, “Whinger?”

-Costellos

[Mr. Mingo]

You mean to tell me I couldn't find one Aussie who enjoyed a good bragging? Seriously, though, any "Bragging" we did was strictly for humor. We're going to have to let our movies do all the talking, seeing as how whatever we say seems to get misconstrued.

How do you pronounce, “Whinger?”

-Costellos

Come on it was obvious you guys were joking around, Im surprised those bragging comments were taken seriously. I laughed at them.

[Mr. Mingo]

"Trick Or Treat" got my vote because the Cinematography was really good. I'm more of a DP so that's more what I care about than a story.



-Kyle

Thanks alot Kyle. Im much more into the cinematography and post production side of video as well. You should have entered a short for this, you always post some sick videos!





I'm still waiting for other entries, but so far it is a tie between The Lantern, Jacko and Trick or Treat. I need to find a three-sided coin.

Trick or Treat looked great. The story felt too big to fit in the time given. But, well, it just looks really great. :D



Thanks SenorKaffee. Thats exactly how I felt when I was editing, that I tried to cram too much into the timeframe. Lesson learned.

[APXIAC]

Hocking Hills
Very competently done. Good effects and lighting. Colors of scene were appropriate. The cold expression on the actor with the knife was very good. The pulled by legs scene with the scream was nice. Did the chase scene use a stabilizer? Technically very good. Sad to say, it felt like just another horror trailer. This was my third choice.


Thank you for everything. :hv20-smilie03:
I was actually trying to give it a trailer feel though.
And nothing other than the stock hv30 was used, so no stabilizer.
Cant wait for the next contest. :hv20-smilie77:

[jordan314]

Thanks for reviewing all of the films sillyman! Your input is appreciated.

[EssentialParadox]

First off: Great videos from everyone! I was very impressed for 1 minute films.


My personal favorite: Jacko



Most disturbing: The Lantern

Best Hollywood: Hocking Hills

Funniest: Jacko

Best 'Film-look': Trick or Treat

Coolest: The Ginger Virus


Big props to the organizer(s) of the contest. I was very pleased with the 1-minute limit, which made it easy on the filmmakers and also the viewers! Perfect length for any future contests (or maybe 2 mins at a stretch).

Only thing I had a problem with is that I didn't even know about this contest until I saw the banner to vote for it last night! I only ever read a couple of technical forums, but next time see if you can make a banner advertising when entries are being accepted too. Other than that, very well done to everyone.

[sillyman]

One minute is not way too short, it is in fact quite a long time to tell a story. The problem is that the majority of these entries try to cram something that would need longer than a minute into that timeframe, and it leaves most of them to fall flat. That's a common issue regardless of the length limitation on a contest, however.

Far too few people understand the idea of getting into the story as late as possible, and getting out as soon as possible. That ideal should be applied not only to the entire story for a short film, but also every single shot that makes up the film. Because it's a SHORT, there's not time for the extra filler that ultimately isn't necessary.

Yeah, it was tougher to edit than to shoot. I had a concept in mind and took about an hour worth of video with lots of different views and takes. When it came down to editing I had to throw away a lot of nice footage and story. Then synching the narration threw even more out. Deciding transitions and fades became an issue (that's 1 second per at least). Shooting for this contest taught me a lot about why my attempt at HD Shorts 2 didn't even make it out the line. Editing it gave me an idea of where I could improve in technique. Here's to better films! :hv20-smilie71:

[EssentialParadox]

the story is just a bonus.
Never say that in front of a producer!

[Dleo]

To all who submitted -- great job!

I picked 'Trick or Treat" as the winner. I just liked it the best. It wasn't the best acted or best shot, but it had the best story. I was entertained through the whole 1 minute. Good -- short -- short.


Dleo

[net]

I thought they were all pretty good, but voted for the one I thought had the best execution of an idea.

btw, there were credits in a few of them.


from the HD Short Shorts thread:



Rules for film:

1) All entries must be shot on any Canon Vixia camcorder with any and all modifications.
2) Films must clearly relate to theme.
3) Category lengths are determined based on film content. Credits will not be permitted, but may be in the description section on Vimeo. The total length of film may not exceed 1 minute.

http://hv20.com/showthread.php?t=16996

[zephyrnoid]

All in all - pretty good. I notice the insistence on 'Knives' Amazing how icons like Friday the 13th can influence a generation of filmakers. So I voted "Hocking Hills" since it features a Benchmade Osborne ;)

[APXIAC]

All in all - pretty good. I notice the insistence on 'Knives' Amazing how icons like Friday the 13th can influence a generation of filmakers. So I voted "Hocking Hills" since it features a Benchmade Osborne ;)

haha thanks for the vote! :hv20-smilie77:

[koolpenguin89]

btw, there were credits in a few of them.

Meh, that was more to make sure they stayed under the 1 minute limit than anything else, and they all did, so Im not gonna worry about it.

Everyone, i would suggest not waiting for the final contestant to unlock his video. I just checked, and i noticed that he doesn't even have any posts on this forum, so he is more than likely a spammer (but i don't really have any proof, so ill just wait and see). But seriously, i wouldn't your breath waiting for him.

Dylan

[EssentialParadox]

But seriously, i wouldn't your breath waiting for him.

Even if he's not a spammer, if this was an actual film festival he would've been completely out of luck for missing the deadline.

[seraphoenix77]

The Garden Book
Silent film! Nice music. The lighting was a bit too dim (Vimeo compression?). What was that blue spot on the guitar? The beat down was funny. The dimness of light on the leftside actor made it hard to make out his facial expressions. The overhead light was good for the rightside actor. The pause to cut to the stabbing didn't feel necessary. It felt like filler to make it 1 minute. Could have been shorter. Well done but not as fluid as Jacko.

I appreciate the time you to took to watch, review and give feedback for my short. Thanks!

[Philafront]

cast my vote for Jacko, although it was a close call between that and trick or treat. Like some others mentioned, I thought trick or treat, while LOOKING far superior, and having a good story, felt rushed. Jacko had clean cuts, good acting, and a consistent feel, as well as telling an entire story within the 1 min limit.

I also really enjoyed the 1 min limit. It was interesting to see how people would use it effectively.

[costellobros]

As you can see, we have 2 votes. You are all about to witness the greatest comeback in voting history!!!

Thanks for the votes, gang! You'll both be receiving replicas of the lantern used in the filming of our short, "The Lantern.”


-The Costello Bros.


A lantern replica that doesn’t work? Man, that would be awesome!

:hv20-smilie70:

[scon]

Hocking Hills got my vote...:hv20-smilie77:

[tiny]

Why is the title of my film in Italics when everyone elses is normal font? That really has nothing to do with anything, but I thought it was interesting.

[1]

Why is the title of my film in Italics...

I think it's showing you who you voted for...

[APXIAC]

I think it's showing you who you voted for...

LOL you voted for yourself thats goofy. :hv20-smilie79:

[Mr. Mingo]

I thought they were all pretty good, but voted for the one I thought had the best execution of an idea.

btw, there were credits in a few of them.



Yeah I noticed a few other rule breakers as well. Not a big deal, Im just happy there were so many entries this time.

[spideralex90]

Trick or treat was the best, story and production. Others were good, some not so good. But overall pretty well done. Hocking hills almost got my vote, but it was a trailer, not a short.

[gmaier]

LOL you voted for yourself thats goofy. :hv20-smilie79:

Lol, i voted for myself aswell, and it looks like its gonna be the only vote im gonna get so im gonna say it was with it :hv20-smilie03: (the stalkers)

[2Bdecided]

Jacko.

If I could vote for runners up, it would be The Lantern and The Garden Book.

Cool contest.

Cheers,
David.

[Dleo]

If you agree that the criteria for voting shouldn’t be how funny any particular movie was, why would it matter whether or not it had a start and finish as that does not pertain to the footage whatsoever? This isn’t a screenwriting forum, either. Realistically, the story is just a bonus.

Without a story it's is just photography with music.

Story is what makes a narrative film worth watching, and the photography, and sound just add to the story.

dleo

[APXIAC]

Trick or treat was the best, story and production. Others were good, some not so good. But overall pretty well done. Hocking hills almost got my vote, but it was a trailer, not a short.

:hv20-smilie119:
I guess I wasn't familiar with the lingo. lol.
I thought short just meant it was short.
Like one minute long for example.
Oh well. Im learning. :hv20-smilie03:

[EssentialParadox]

:hv20-smilie119:
I guess I wasn't familiar with the lingo. lol.
I thought short just meant it was short.
Like one minute long for example.
Oh well. Im learning. :hv20-smilie03:

Short is short for 'short film' (wow, pun unintentional.) What makes it a short film isn't really in the sense because it's a few mins long, but because it's just not long enough to be a feature film. A short film could be as long as half an hour, or more!

But your trailer was still great regardless. I'd be interested when I do see your next 'real' short film. ;)

[costellobros]

Where the heck is Skeletons? Was looking forward to that one.

[APXIAC]

Yeah I know I was going to wait on it.
Decided not to though, obviously.
The name certainly caught my attention too though.

[SenorKaffee]

I hope there will be more Short Shorts in the future!

[Dleo]

I'm surprised more people didn't vote for this yet -- Where is everybody??

I thought there were a lot of film makers out there.

The HV20/HV30 is really the first camera that can produce a HI QUALITY almost professional film type look for under $800.

The ability to adjust mic levels, shoot in HD, and shoot 24p, make this camera the best choice for ultra low budget filmmakers, and I thought hundreds of people would be voting and possibly entering this contest.

I made a short, but it was 2 minutes long, and I couldn't get it to the 1 minute requirement, and have it tell a story. :(

But I'm surprised more people didn't enter, or at least vote. There's more time left for voting, and I encouorage everybody to check these out and vote.

Dleo

[costellobros]

Post your video, Dleo. We want to see it!

[Dleo]

okay cool!! I'll post it tonight or tomorrow!!!

Thanks for wanting to check it out.

I've never downloaded anything to vimeo before, that's why there will be a delay, so please be patient.

dleo

[_gl]

I enjoyed Jacko, but Trick or Treat won for me - not just with how nice it looked (which should be an inspiration to all HV20 owners) and how much it 'felt' like proper cinema, but I also like the idea (even if it could use a little finessing).

I also really liked the girl's acting in Lantern (not the first time right?), but the ending did nothing for me.

[cstone2]

I also wanted to enter it, but i decided to enter the national film challenge instead, shot it with the hv20, i will post it up on Vimeo in a few days and put a link to it in the footage area.

[jordan314]

Thanks for the info cstone2, I googled national film challenge and found the site:
http://www.filmchallenge.com/
The contest is over, but maybe we should start a thread of external contests on this forum.

[costellobros]

I also really liked the girl's acting in Lantern (not the first time right?), but the ending did nothing for me.

She’ll be happy to hear you liked it. This was her first acting role and she took direction like a pro.

We really liked the idea of a little girl walking around in a dark place and we had to fight pretty hard to make it work. We had to shoot this 3 different times only because the first shoot involved a script that was way too long and convoluted and the second one didn’t turn out the way we’d hoped.

Our storyline will be better next time.
Thanks for the CC.

-The Costellos

[garrettgibbons]

the ending did nothing for me.

See, it was so random that I laughed pretty hard. Jacko was funny, too, but Garden Book also had some comic beats. A bit dark, though.

[garrettgibbons]

Yeah, "Hocking Hills" didn't really do anything for me. It looked like some kids playing in the dorms. Why wasn't the pursued kid running like a crazy was chasing him? Kinda stale.

The text and graphics were actually really pro! But the footage.... Timing was pretty authentic in the trailer sense.

It just kind of made me laugh. The hard part about horror is that you really need to be good to get your audience involved; it's harder to do drama/horror/romance than comedy, I think.

The Lantern was random, and the random lights on in the garage threw me off, too. I almost voted for it, though.

I voted for the Garden Book. Comic beats were good, the silent film aspect was great.

Trick Or Treat shows awesome D.P. potential. Editing and pacing were its only flaws, besides the potty-mouth-ness. Swearing is bad for you. Seriously good camera work, though. Head and shoulders above most in the contest, though not all. 3rd in my mind, just because of pacing and I don't like gore. Sick work.

[APXIAC]

Yeah, "Hocking Hills" didn't really do anything for me. It looked like some kids playing in the dorms. Why wasn't the pursued kid running like a crazy was chasing him? Kinda stale.

The text and graphics were actually really pro! But the footage.... Timing was pretty authentic in the trailer sense.

HAHA thats because it was some kids playing in the dorm.
Were only eighteen you know. :hv20-smilie01:

Thanks for the input though.
We're learning. :hv20-smilie77:

[storyboard]

Nicely done! Keep up the good work.
It's nice to see some putting alittle more effort to the sound.

And as this is my first post also, I want to say hello to all and that this forum must be one of the most kind-hearted, good-natured forums I've visited in a long time!

with respect Daniel

*spelling

[d1g1t]

I voted for Trick or Treat because it was the most memorable, but would like to mention that I was really impressed with the editing in Hocking Hills and the girl's acting in The Lantern. My thanks to all for the entertainment.

-- Kevin

[StrayDogPictures]

Wow, sorry guys, I have been really busy lately and have not been on the site. Skeletons is now public. It's a little late now for the contest, but you should still watch it. For the Halloween spirit.

Good cinematography for Trick or Treat. And congratulations to Jacko for getting a condensed story into the 1 minute time frame. Also it looks like congratulations are due to Jacko for winning the contest as well.

[leepback]

Skeletons is now public. It's a little late now for the contest, but you should still watch it. For the Halloween spirit.

...but where is it?

I can't see it anywhere on the entrants film page or even find it on vimeo.

[SilentBob102]

Hi all,

Haven't had a lot of time to check in over the last few weeks but I wanted to say thanks again for all the kind words (and definitely the criticism too) for 'Jacko'. Wanted to vote finally, too -- had to give the nod to 'Trick or Treat', just an amazing piece of work. Looking forward to the next contest definitely.

[Dleo]

I thought trick or treat was the best film, because it had the best production quality, best story. It was a satisfying 1 minute of viewing. So great work.

I thought Jacko was a good idea, and well executed. But in the end Trick or Treat was better executed.

But great job ALL!!

Dleo

[milespapineau]

i didnt like any of the three i watched. they were good. just not my type. its what you would expect to see of someone making a video that try's to follow the modern movie type of filmmaking but nothing new to us the viewers.

[Flint Loveless]

Perhaps we’ll have to start a Revolutionary Short Shorts competition. The rules, revolutionize and restructure all of film making as we know it with a one minute, no budget film. Good luck!

Prizes: 1st place - $25 gift certificate to Best Buy and an engraved plaque which reads, “Congratulations, you’ve changed the way people look at cinema as an artistic outlet… FOR-EV-ERRRRRR!”

But all seriousness aside…

-Flint

[1]

...but nothing new to us the viewers.

I agree.
Also, no name-actors either.
I mean c'mon, not even a cameo from Christopher Walken, Temuera Morrison, or Bruno Ganz.

Quite disappointing!

[SilentBob102]

I agree.
Also, no name-actors either.
I mean c'mon, not even a cameo from Christopher Walken, Temuera Morrison, or Bruno Ganz.

Quite disappointing!

Well, actually, Sir Anthony Hopkins was originally supposed to play the pumpkin in 'Jacko' but he walked off the set when he found out that my trailer had a bigger jacuzzi than his. :hv20-smilie23:

[sillyman]

Hahaha ... add that to the next entry requirements: MUST BE REVOLUTIONARY.