Antman's Film Contest #35 - CONTRAST [Summer Festival Trial]

[drapeama]

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-GvcacYKZDMY/Tewisk2RbEI/AAAAAAAAAxg/qWanzjI_Gxo/Winners3.jpg


"CONTRAST" [Summer Festival Trial]

The theme for this round* is CONTRAST. You can make it about anything, as long as there's contrast in it, at any level.
It can be Black & White, Good & Bad, Rich & Poor, Handsome & Ugly...simply at any level. This would show some creativity and we will elaborate our judgment template according to the new criterias**:

Reminder of the Rules:
1) Can*** be longer than 5 minutes, up to 10 minutes.
2) Shouldn't be rated over PG-13.
3) Video should be posted on vimeo official (http://vimeo.com/groups/antmansfilmfestival) page ONLY. Videos for the current theme will not be available to view until the contest deadline > managed by Vishus (http://www.hv20.com/member.php?3240-Vishus), AJUK (http://www.hv20.com/member.php?21073-AJUK) and drapeama (http://www.hv20.com/member.php?21859-drapeama).
4) The winner can enter the next competition!
5) a) Use of copyrighted material/songs : as long as it's not the center point/plot of the story, it's allowed. Otherwise user will be disqualified. Example: A Coca-Cola can/SONY TV somewhere in the movie isn't considered as a copyrighted infringement.
b) Use of copyrighted music both in lyrics, score or performance, other than such that is recorded incidentally during normal filming, without a release will result in the video being disqualified.
6) Entries must be made specifically for the theme submitted to, within the deadline. All entries made before the announcement of the theme will be disqualified.
7) Users judging the contests, Official Judges (http://www.hv20.com/showthread.php?43072-Official-Contests-Judges&p=400925&viewfull=1#post400925) or not, should use the new template available here (http://www.hv20.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=15109&d=1335401828) to post their reviews. Of course, only the officials judges' reviews will be considered to decide on a winner.
8) Deadline will be announced in a 24h time format (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/24-hour_clock). The week starts on Sunday and ends on Saturday. Days are starting at 00:00 and ends at 23:59. Also, please refer to this UTC/GMT (http://www.worldtimeserver.com/current_time_in_UTC.aspx) time to calculate the deadline in your zone (check on the right and select your country & state/province).

Contest deadline is Wednesday August 1st 23.59 UTC (11.59pm)
Submit your entries to the following group ONLY: http://www.vimeo.com/groups/antmansfilmfestival (http://www.vimeo.com/groups/antmansfilmfestival)


* This round is a little special being a 3 months "Summer Festival" instead of the 2 weeks usual deadline.

** The new criterias are:
1) Respect of the Theme. It can be evident or subtle, being evident doesn't mean more points just like being subtle doesn't mean the opposite. Work on that. For 10 points.

2) Presentation of the Concept. It can be a rough poster (no need to make it broadcast quality) OR a little teaser (max 30 seconds). You must provide one before the deadline in order to avoid disqualification. You can provide it the day before the deadline without problem though. Please provide it in an individual thread in the Footage subforum as "Antman's Contest #35 - Your Title". Leave it open for discussion as well. For 10 points.

3) Story. It'll be reviewed like usual, but this aspect will be given an individual score. For 25 points.

4) Acting. It'll be reviewed like usual, but this aspect will be given an individual score. For 10 points.

5) Sound. It'll be reviewed like usual, but this aspect will be given an individual score. For 15 points.

6) Cinematography. It'll be reviewed like usual, but this aspect will be given an individual score. For 15 points.

7) Editing. It'll be reviewed like usual, but this aspect will be given an individual score. For 15 points.

*** Update on the allowed length of the videos. As the deadline is considerable, I think allowing longer entries could be a good idea. Can now be longer than 5 minutes but keep it under 10 minutes. Entries over will result in a disqualified entry.


**** Prizes. As this contest has a longer than usual deadline, it will obviously brings more entries. There is actually 4 prizes (http://www.hv20.com/showthread.php?43647-Antman-s-Contest-Official-Prizes-Thread) that haven't been given so far. Let's make a prizes selection (according to logical value of the prize):
1st place: HueyNRolf's Seiko Watch (http://www.hv20.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=12944&d=1314342618)
2nd place: Vishus's Camera Stabilizer (http://i.imgur.com/UiXar.jpg)
3rd place: AJUK's LED Light Panel (http://www.cameratonic.co.uk/media/catalog/product/cache/1/image/412x400/0e0bec52cf473a4bc6c08f7a354a735e/c/n/cn_126_led_camera_camcorder_video_hot_shoe_lamp_li ght_3.jpg)
4th place: drapeama's DIY FigRig (https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-piZXxr0Foyk/TfPKUj1FyFI/AAAAAAAAA1Q/hAcGWlVZSX4/s912/IMG_3814.JPG)



Good luck to everyone! Bring some interesting entries!

[drapeama]

Humm..76 views, 0 reply.
Is anyone interested by that round?

[RockDonkey]

Needs more fresh changes, I think. People should blog about the whole process, for instance.

[Timbit]

I was going to reply, but I'm not sure I can commit to it as I have absolutely no idea what I would make a poster/teaser film about... Wait. I thought we had to say that we were entering by tonight? Now I can't see that anywhere.............


I think I need to go back to bed. ;)

[drapeama]

So, this theme/deadline/extra criterias are not good?
I thought (as well as Vishus) that some change could benefit to our contest, let's see and wait a couple more days.

[DebG.]

I'm thinking of entering the contest for the first time, FWIW.

Deborah

[MrMicah]

First post by me.

I've just recently joined, although I have been visiting the site for a while.

I'm interested in trying to make a film for this contest. I just hope that you will be lauging WITH me, not AT me.

[HueyNRolf]

Hello MrMicah. Welcome aboard.

[MrMicah]

Thank you.

I've found lots of useful information here. I've been inspired to make my own DIY jib last weekend and I'm sort of enthused about trying to take interesting footage more regularly.

[Timbit]

So, this theme/deadline/extra criterias are not good?
No, I just misread when we had to have a poster/teaser film up by. I now see it's to be up before the August 1st deadline, but I thought I had read that we had to have the poster/teaser up by May 1st to show that we were entering.... :p

I'll be okay... ;)

Welcome aboard Mr Micah! :)

[drapeama]

I'm thinking of entering the contest for the first time, FWIW.
That would be nice. I'd like to see your work Deb!

I just hope that you will be lauging WITH me, not AT me.
Don't worry about that. The only thing you could receive that wouldn't be positive would be feedback about your short (in other words: negative criticism). We like to give some to everyone so they know on what they have to work harder. But be sure we won't laugh at you personally.

No, I just misread [..] I thought I had read that we had to have the poster/teaser up by May 1st to show that we were entering.... :p
Yeah! You have to submit one before the deadline. You can submit a concept the night before if you wish, as long as you'll submit 1 poster/teaser (one of the other) as well as your entry, BEFORE the deadline. That's all! Take it as an extra challenge!
BTW, we won't be that rude on that part, my guideline: if you submit one, regardless of the quality: 6/10 for criteria #2.

[paperkut12]

I've been away from the forum too long, I will definitely try and get something in. I like the idea and the extended amount of time. Hopefully it will breed a lot of entries like we haven't seen before.

[Shaunp007]

Sounds like great fun. Even though my summer, at least early summer is PACKED with work to do. I would like to submit something at least.

I will definitely try and get something in. YAY

[Playing]

Can I also suggest we encourage everyone with extra time to submit more than one entry. That way no one has to sit and wait till August with nothing to do :)

[drapeama]

Can I also suggest we encourage everyone with extra time to submit more than one entry. That way no one has to sit and wait till August with nothing to do :)

Good idea. Vishus already did it for the scene re-enactment!

[drapeama]

I've moved the "suggestion ideas" post to the General Discussion, so if you would please continue there! I'd like to keep the current thread to the round #35 related discussions. Btw, you can always reply with a redirect link to the other topic's post.

[RockDonkey]

BLOG
My concept is a road movie that I have planned to undertake when I go with my bicycle to Luxemburg. It's a few hundreds of kilometers and I have to go there to re-new my passport. Thought I'd also spice up this boring traveling by documenting it. The latest development is that I have asked the consulate to replace my passport with a document because it's not totally safe for me to walk into the consulate, as long as my country say that they prefer to see me dead. Will have to see if I'll do the traveling at all.

[drapeama]

Will have to see if I'll do the traveling at all.
I hope you will!
I'll start my hollidays in less than 2 hours and I'll be off until June 2nd. I'll try to work on something by then and I hope I will have something to submit.

Also, if you have a little something to share already about your entry, please post it in the footage subforum as described in the first post!

[Brendan_pr]

I have a pretty good idea for this theme. I will be working on it this summer since I have quite a bit of free time :hv20-smilie03:

[drapeama]

I have a pretty good idea for this theme. I will be working on it this summer since I have quite a bit of free time :hv20-smilie03:

I'll try to work on one too.
Btw, Charlie has a very nice idea. I'll help her for this one as she's very interested and really wants to make one for this one!

[Wuoyrd]

I've never taken part in a film contest, but I think I"ll give it a shot. It'll certainly give me something to focus on for this summer. :hv20-smilie03:

[drapeama]

It'll certainly give me something to focus on for this summer. Would be nice to see an entry from you!
Actually, Charlie is working on a concept and she'll submit something for sure. I'm still looking for a good idea to work on, then I'll start myself!

[RookieGigs]

Sounds like fun.... Not sure I would do so good. XD I guess I have already contributed by giving Timbit some ideas for the contest. :hv20-smilie23:

[Daniel Rutter]

I don't know if I'm going to enter... I won't make promises, but I certainly will try.

The killer thing for me is hiding it away for three months until the contest ends. Thats a dealbreaker for me alone, so if I enter it won't be until about a month before the contest ends.

[drapeama]

Sounds like fun.... Not sure I would do so good. XD I guess I have already contributed by giving Timbit some ideas for the contest. :hv20-smilie23:
Would be nice from you to enter, maybe just a little something?

I don't know if I'm going to enter... I won't make promises, but I certainly will try.
The killer thing for me is hiding it away for three months until the contest ends. Thats a dealbreaker for me alone, so if I enter it won't be until about a month before the contest ends.

Yeah, same here. I'm still looking for a good idea that really worth it.
Charlie has it's own idea and we already have actors to help.
(why in these situation I never have any ideas and when I'm alone, 2 days from the deadline...it pops like PopCorn...)

[MrMicah]

For me, its finding the time outside of work, and juggling the time of my cast to get this done, and also that I don't yet have instinctual proficiency with lighting, apperures or framing, so each scene requires a bit of conscious thinking time.

It means mine will be delivered close to deadline, but I'll deliver something. It will be a short drama, with a twist.

I'm also looking forward to any feedback from the members here, so that I can improve.

[drapeama]

For me, its finding the time outside of work [...] but I'll deliver something. [..] I'm also looking forward to any feedback from the members here, so that I can improve.

I agree on everything! ;)
Positive or Negative crisicism are just as important each other: you can't improve with only one of them.

[RookieGigs]

Yeah, I could try? xD

[drapeama]

Yeah, I could try? xD

Go ahead! Shoot something! ;)

Would be nice to see your work, in a contest! And you still have up to August 1st to submit something!

[MrMicah]

Yeah, I could try? xD

Give it a go. All of us first-timers will add some new interest to the competition.

[drapeama]

Give it a go. All of us first-timers will add some new interest to the competition.
Exactly. That can't be any bad!
Plus, I've seen some of Rookie's work and it would certainly bring some creativity to this round!

[RookieGigs]

Exactly. That can't be any bad!
Plus, I've seen some of Rookie's work and it would certainly bring some creativity to this round!

Aw... thanks. xD hehhe! I try. :P

@Mr.Micah: Thanks for the encouragement!

Btw, I'm not very good at responding to these things... Still a rookie. xD

[RookieGigs]

Give it a go. All of us first-timers will add some new interest to the competition.

Thanks! :) And welcome to the site. I see you are new too! Marc is a very helpful guy. And he knows his stuff. :) If you have any questions, he'll help you. And he is encouraging as well. :) Best of luck in the contest!

[RookieGigs]

Go ahead! Shoot something! ;)

Would be nice to see your work, in a contest! And you still have up to August 1st to submit something!

Do I need a gun? ;D hahaha! Okay, I will try. I might even start today. I have to think up something first though. Contrast is the theme eh? Alrighty... :D

[RockDonkey]

BLOG
It has become clear that it's too dangerous for me to visit my consulate, so that trip won't happen. Instead I used the same idea and shot something similar today. It's a documentary, so the post work is relatively small. Will put up a teaser in a few days. The short itself... suppose I will keep it password protected... send Drapeama the password so that he can check it isn't too obscene. Eh!?

[drapeama]

The short itself... suppose I will keep it password protected...
Just keep it "private" and unlock it a couple days before the deadline.
Also, don't forget to post a little something in the footage subforum:

2) Presentation of the Concept. It can be a rough poster (no need to make it broadcast quality) OR a little teaser (max 30 seconds). You must provide one before the deadline in order to avoid disqualification. You can provide it the day before the deadline without problem though. Please provide it in an individual thread in the Footage subforum as "Antman's Contest #35 - Your Title". Leave it open for discussion as well. For 10 points.
...just like Rookie did here (http://www.hv20.com/showthread.php?45924-Antman-s-Contest-35-The-Choice&p=443187#post443187).

[RockDonkey]

Ah an own thread in the FOOTAGE forum. Now I get what this means.

I will present my concept there. Yep, have clear thoughts behind a few things.

[drapeama]

No prob Rock!
Thanks for submitting an entry as well!

[KingDucky]

Ahh, finally a chance at Huey's watch.:hv20-smilie68::hv20-smilie68:

[drapeama]

Ahh, finally a chance at Huey's watch.:hv20-smilie68::hv20-smilie68:

Yeah, we ALL aim that one!
I'd say that all the prizes are worth the try though!

[drapeama]

I don't know if it'll work, but I'm currently trying to get more newcomers to register and submit an entry for this round over FaceBook. There's some groups over there with a lot of people with an interest into filmmaking.

[RockDonkey]

Have enjoyed to have plenty of time to make small adjustments with my short. It is a documentary so I planned only the first half of it then grabbed my camera and trusted that it will work out. And like so often I got a shot that symbolically sums up the whole thing perfectly. Immediately knew that this will work just fine and it does. It's up on Vimeo password protected.

[MrMicah]

The pressure is on. RockDonkey has one in the can.

I've got some principal footage done. I'm sure it will all be finished in a flurry.

If I win any of the prizes I'm happy for it to be a perpetual trophy and you can just add my name to a facebook group or something under a photo of the prize.

[drapeama]

The pressure is on. RockDonkey has one in the can.[..] If I win any of the prizes I'm happy for it to be a perpetual trophy and you can just add my name to a facebook group or something under a photo of the prize.
1) I know that. Haven't got the chance to start anything yet (lack of actor's availability) and it's less than a month to submit something now...!
2) You'll get a banner like I have in my signature, your name will be in the Winners Hall Of Fame thread and we can always publish the winners over the facebook page (that's a good idea actually!).

[Shaunp007]

I've been working on other projects but I have maybe a week or two of free time (outside of the 9-5 job). I'm a bit confused about the theme, but I have been toying with a story line for about a week. I'm going to start shooting tomorrow!

[drapeama]

To everyone that plans to enter this one, if you're not sure about adding your video to the correct group or whatever, simply post the link of your video here, so we'll be able to add it to the group. As long as it's being done before the deadline, it will be allowed. Make sure to add the link to your video in your own thread (in the Footage subforum) as well.
I'll try to make sure everything is ok by the deadline.

[MrMicah]

OK. Here is the Vimeo link for mine

http://vimeo.com/46561749

I'll add it to the footage thread as well.

[RockDonkey]

A-ha. Mine should be there too.

https://vimeo.com/45972338

[RockDonkey]

MrMicah, your main character is nicely on/off in his two relationships. How much narrative stories have you shot before?

[MrMicah]

Hi RockDonkey,

This is the first time I've ever tried to 'create' anything on film. My previous filming has just been passive filming of amateur sports or theatre and then a bit of editing to make the product more interesting.

I still get just a green screen on yours on Vimeo, but I downloaded it to watch. You certainly cause the audience to be reflective about the character.

[drapeama]

So far two entries? Valid entries I mean. Too bad Rookie hasn't been able to do it on time. I thought we would get more than that. Anyway, thanks for the ones that have entered this round!

I'll add the videos to the group (Unless AJUK or Vishus would be able to do it first) as I'm at work at the moment. So, I'll post my review of both entries later today.
Make sure, if you want to review the videos too, to use the template available here (http://www.hv20.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=15109&d=1335401828).

[RockDonkey]

@ Mr.Micah. Oh, really. Then you've done really well. Your story is very easy to follow and the long takes feel so well executed.

[AJUK]

I'm on holiday in the West Highlands right now draps, so you might need to do the honors.

[Playing]

Congratulations Mr.Micah and RockDonkey. Looking forward to the Judges review.

RockDonkey will you let us in to what you did to piss people off so much that they want to see you dead?

[RockDonkey]

It's more the other way. Others have taken chances and screw up.

[MrMicah]

@ Mr.Micah. Oh, really. Then you've done really well. Your story is very easy to follow and the long takes feel so well executed.

Thanks. I wanted to do something that was a bit challenging to execute, but which I thought I could finish.

The actors/actresses were all interested in making the film work (I had to audition about 30) so I think that helped. We all had fun.

[drapeama]

I'm on holiday in the West Highlands right now draps, so you might need to do the honors.
Ok then!

So, I've just checked all entries, all of them were uploaded before the deadline, and all of them featured a poster/teaser in a separate thread, so 3 valid entries!

Here's my reviews:

MrMicah - Unexpected

Respect of the Theme : 7,5/10
Presentation Concept : 6,5/10
Story : 20/25
Acting : 7/10
Sound : 9/15
Cinematography : 11/15
Editing : 10/15
Overall Score : 71/100

Overall Appreciation & Reviewer's Comments:
What a nice first entry! It was good! A nice story, some nice DP skills, some good acting in it! A well-mixed receipt!
Respect and presentation were well done. Maybe I would have put more emphasis at the end of the phone call that the mother receive, to make it more "dramatic" ?
Story was nicely done! Simple, but shows that a contrast can happen with something everyone takes as granted...
Acting was good, for (I assume) non-professional actors? Just as good as we could expect. Reactions and emotions were quite well shown.
Sound was nice, maybe 1-2 scenes were it was a bit hot or roomy, other than this, it shows that there's some skills in that department!
Cinematography, it was clear that you put a considerable ammount of work in it with dolly & jib shots. Lighting wasn't bad, except 2-3 scenes with harsh lighting due to camera exposure. All in all, it was well done!
Editing was good too. Nothing exceptional, but shows some basics.

Overall, you did what many usually don't do: you've shot a short film with a good story in it!

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Rock Donkey - Daily Contrasts-Documentary

Respect of the Theme : 7/10
Presentation Concept : 7/10
Story : 11/25
Acting : 6/10
Sound : 7/15
Cinematography : 8/15
Editing : 9/15
Overall Score : 55/100

Overall Appreciation & Reviewer's Comments:
Nice concept Wal! I was hoping for more at the end, like a punch or something that would have explained that there was a good reason not to renew his passport, being sick or something...but it was simple a question of paperwork in the end!
Respect of the theme was ok, as it would be quite a contrast! The presentation was nice, very documentary-style!
Story, well, it was good, but I would have expected more details, more insight stories with it. Maybe more thoughts about how the main character feelings?
The acting was good. I would have try to empasize on the feelings of the character in scenes without dialogs, like holding his hand in his hands.
Sound was as it's supposed to sound: documentary-ish! Not that it's a bad thing in this particular video, just that in some scenes, it was close to difficult to hear. But there wasn't much work in it, as it's been captured that way.
The cinematography was handheld all the way. I would, personally, have tried to incorporate some scenes, from an outside "view" which wouldn't have been shaky. To show how & what the character was doing other than pointing the camera towards him. That, if it would have been possible of course.
The editing was some kind of in-camera editing style, so there's not much to say about it.

All in all, even if the style was simple, didn't required a lot of work, it was well done in that category. It was a nice documentary!

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RookieGigs - 8)The Choice

Respect of the Theme : 6/10
Presentation Concept : 6/10
Story : 12/25
Acting : 5/10
Sound : 9/15
Cinematography : 8/15
Editing : 8/15
Overall Score : 54/100

Overall Appreciation & Reviewer's Comments:
Here again, nice first entry to the contest! The idea of your short film was quite simple, but I tend to think that you gave it a nice look and mood!
The story was simple as possible, without much involved in it, but I think you've well represented what the contrast was in it!
Acting, it was difficult to clearly review it, as pretty much all the camera work was from behing you, so you're face wasn't visible. But from what you've shown, and what you've said, as well as what you "imagined", it was nicely portrayed.
About sound, there was 1 scene I remember to be noisy, and in the others, the voice was clear and clean.
Cinematography was nice, even if simplist as there was only 3 or 4 shots in the whole short. But it was nice to see a short film actually shot on a tripod! Refreshing!
Editing was well done too, even if it was simple too. There weren't useless stuff between the cuts. One thing though: if your camera can't do 16x9, I'd let it 4x3 as "original ratio". Or, in your video editor, select a 16x9 project and zoom your video in, to "cut" the top/bottom parts to "achieve" 16x9 from it.

All in all, it was a nice little entry and I'm glad you've submited something! Great little short film here Ericka!

And my vote goes to MrMicah for his 'unexpected' entry (no pun intended!). Let's see other judges' reviews!

[MrMicah]

Hi Drapeama,

Thanks for the feedback.

The actors are not professionals, although two have done a bit of amateur theatre before. They were all people who want to act though, and I found them on an online casting call web-site.

[drapeama]

Let's see other judges' reviews!
Just to make sure, AJUK, Vishus and Huey were the "official" judges for this one. I've posted my review, if none of them post a review by the end of the week, we'll take any other user's review, as long it's been made via the template. We'll decide for a winner with 3 submitted reviews.

Thanks for the feedback.
No prob. Hope my review helped you in a way!

Any suggestions for the next round? Post it in the general discussion thread. We'll get the next round ready.

[Playing]

I can submit a standby review.

[drapeama]

I can submit a standby review.

I'd like to. Even if the other judges submit theirs, we'll have a nice one from you, frequent contributor!

[RockDonkey]

Use this password to see mine:

da-da-da-daily

My freedom of speech is where the rights to my identity is so can't really say things I do in this video.

[Playing]

Congratulations to all contestants on a job well done.

I enjoyed all three entries, especially because they were so different.

MrMicah - Unexpected

Respect of the Theme : 9/10
Presentation Concept : 9/10
Story : 20/25
Acting : 9/10
Sound : 7/15
Cinematography : 10/15
Editing : 14/15
Overall Score : 78/100

This is a highly polished entry and it is obvious that you put a lot of care into it.

The contrast between the two girls fit the theme perfectly. The acting was excellent.
Cinematography was good with a few problems with exposure. Sound was OK.

The one thing I did not like was the ending. To me the second accident spoilt it.
The girl shouting his name across the street was enough.

It’s normally Drapes who talks about color grading, but maybe some overall color theme could look good.

An excellent entry.

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Rock Donkey - Daily Contrasts-Documentary

Respect of the Theme : 5/10
Presentation Concept : 9/10
Story : 15/25
Acting : 7/10
Sound : 7/15
Cinematography : 7/15
Editing : 10/15
Overall Score : 60/100

Respect of the theme was a bit of a stretch but I liked the concept of the walk very much. Not being able to eat the apple because someone else is there was inspired. Some of the handheld camera worked, some less so. I would have preferred a more fluid transition from tripod to walking.

I liked to collage of different little bits of information like the water level and how you showed us where we are going or coming from.

I really cared for the character and want to know more about him.

Overall a good concept that needs more attention.


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RookieGigs - The Choice

Respect of the Theme : 9/10
Presentation Concept : 6/10
Story : 12/25
Acting : 7/10
Sound : 7/15
Cinematography : 7/15
Editing : 10/15
Overall Score : 58/100

Congratulations on your first entry. I liked the different camera angles you used and the editing was good. I would have preferred all the shots on a tripod so the phone only moves with the hand holding it. Typing was a bit slow. The room noise changed from one shot to the next. Acting was fine.

The best part was the idea behind the story. Now if it was me, I would have added a second projection into the future where you are working for a big insurance company with a huge pile of paperwork on your desk on Friday afternoon. Seeing that, you then accept the party invitation.

Looking forward to your next video.

My unofficial vote goes to: MrMicah - Unexpected

[Playing]

A note to Marc: I get: "Permission Denied" on two out of the 3 videos at the Antman site. I had to go to the private sites for both of them. (Not RookieGigs.)

[drapeama]

A note to Marc: I get: "Permission Denied" on two out of the 3 videos at the Antman site. I had to go to the private sites for both of them. (Not RookieGigs.)
Just so you know:

Use this password to see mine:


It’s normally Drapes who talks about color grading, but maybe some overall color theme could look good.
[..]
My unofficial vote goes to: MrMicah - Unexpected

I know, I usually write a little something about it, but as a first entry, I don't think it was necessary. Nice entry.

[RockDonkey]

BLOG
The thought behind my documentary was to do it in modern style -video blog inspired. But most importantly I wanted to reveal something about me as a person and human being. Can't give anyone more than that, so thank you for commenting in a positive tone.

A few things have happened since the documentary was shot. My home country has confirmed to not give me a passport. And as the documentary ended: other countries follow. Meaning since over a month I have no papers, I'm not allowed to be on earth at the moment. The only person daring to comment it until today (got a second comment today) has been the leading refugee expert in my home country, she has off the record said that I better go to a next country. Today the law firm representing me since 1998 informed me that they will not represent me anymore. No reason mentioned, so I asked them for one.

[Playing]

But most importantly I wanted to reveal something about me as a person and human being.
That you have certainly achieved. I think that is really the only thing that makes all efforts worthwhile. I also suspect that this is what every film maker does. Intentionally or not.

Keep us posted as much as you are able to. Regards, Kurt.

[drapeama]

That you have certainly achieved. I think that is really the only thing that makes all efforts worthwhile. I also suspect that this is what every film maker does. Intentionally or not.

I second that! Well said Kurt!

[drapeama]

So, what's about reviews guys?
And also, what's happening with the prizes? Are they still available (http://www.hv20.com/showthread.php?43647-Antman-s-Contest-Official-Prizes-Thread) or..?
Huey, AJUK, Vishus...?

[HueyNRolf]

Sorry, Draps. I've been busy of late and lazy when not busy :hv20-smilie03:

But yes, the watch is still up for grabs and I'll post my feedback for the winning entry tomorrow. Sorry for the delay.

[drapeama]

Sorry, Draps. I've been busy of late and lazy when not busy :hv20-smilie03:
But yes, the watch is still up for grabs and I'll post my feedback for the winning entry tomorrow. Sorry for the delay.
1) No prob Huey! All excused!
2) Good news! We'll wait for it. By the time, we'll try to setup the next round to be ready.

[Shaunp007]

I would like to watch the entries but I am getting a "Permission Denied" in the vimeo page. Can you make these video's public?

[HueyNRolf]

Here's my reviews:

RookieGigs - 8)The Choice

Ericka, I liked your simple but interesting idea and on a second viewing it made its point. I'm not sure if the sign "WILL WORK 4 FOOD" needed to punch through more; it's possible I missed it the first time because I wasn't paying attention. A few technical points: The sound is noisy. A little trick here is to take a sample of the noise and loop it under the mix (like a roomtone). Humans tend to notice less when a noise is constant than when it cuts in and out. The shots of text being punched into the phone are too long, the audience doesn't need to see the whole process, so use jump cuts. Finally, keep titles to a minimum. Unless your obligated to credit someone, use only the essential info. In this case I'd have used "A Movie by <name>" and that's it.

Rock Donkey - Daily Contrasts-Documentary

On the first viewing I thought you were playing a part, although it was interesting, I had a hard time with the shaky cam and poor sound, intentional or not. Also the gaps in the story, make it confusing. Reading your subsequent post, it turns out that this is your real life story. I do understand why there are things you can't talk about, but explaining this in the movie would've given the piece more impact. I wish you the best of luck in getting things sorted out.


MrMicah - Unexpected

Congratulations on pulling this off, you've made something with story, talents and multi locations. If this really is your first attempt at such a project, you've done an outstanding job. I know you had trouble with the sound and learned a lesson, so I won't go into detail about how it could've been better, except to say watch your VU in post and make sure nothing ever goes over 0db, That scream at the end was way too hot. A couple of other technicals: I noticed some barrel distortion on a couple of shots. Did you use a WA adaptor? I'm sure the forum folks could help you overcome this. Sorry, I don't know much about them. The outside scene looked overexposed to me. Zebra stripes is your friend.

Finally, I'd say get some tips on directing. In places I was left with the impression you could've got more from the talents. Although they did a reasonable job

Good job everyone. My vote goes to MrMicah - Unexpected

Draps, sorry again for my late response. I know the other two reviews aren't official, but they're valid, I'd say. Unless anyone has any objections, why don't you close this contest and move on to the next?

[RockDonkey]

It's real life alright. Even wrote up front that it is a documentary. Really wanted to participate this round, but in situations like this you aren't really in the condition to focus and do anything at all, so you have to turn that to your favor and do a short about that. Something that reflects the situation and since the theme is contrasts shaky camera is an effective way to show how shaky I feel right now. Will be extremely nice later, in a few years, to have this moment on film. I don't want to forget why I did these 30 km walks twice a week.

[drapeama]

Here's my reviews:
[..]
Good job everyone. My vote goes to MrMicah - Unexpected
[..]
Draps, sorry again for my late response. I know the other two reviews aren't official, but they're valid, I'd say. Unless anyone has any objections, why don't you close this contest and move on to the next?

1) Thanks Huey!
2) So far, out of 3 reviews, we got a winner!
3) No prob Huey, we all have a life somewhere else! I'm with you, to get things rolling maybe we should declare the winner and get the next contest up.


So congratulations to MrMicah for his 1st Place in this round! Feel free to send me some suggestions via PM, and we'll get the next round started!

[drapeama]

All videos are now in the Film Archive (http://www.hv20.com/showthread.php?36367-FILM-ARCHIVE-Antman-s-Short-Film-Contest-ALL-PREVIOUS-ENTRIES-IN-ONE-THREAD!&p=447467&viewfull=1#post447467).
Rookie, could you check the settings of your video and allow the "embed" settings, so it will appear in the thread? Thanks!

[MrMicah]

Password for mine is "#35" (without the "")

[HueyNRolf]

Prizes?

Should I award the watch to MrMicah, Draps?

[drapeama]

Prizes?
Should I award the watch to MrMicah, Draps?
You're the donator so it's your call. If the reviews posted seems legit enough, as the two other judges haven't shown still, then go ahead. Or we simply keep it for a further round. Up to the participants and you.
From what I've calculated, MrMicah is #1, RockDonkey is #2 and Rookie is #3. But if other people aren't up anymore to give their prizes...then I don't know. There's Vishus and AJUK that were donating the 2 other prizes.

[Playing]

MrMicah has produced an admirable short and has put a lot of effort into it, so in my opinion, he deserves the prize.

[HueyNRolf]

You're the donator so it's your call. If the reviews posted seems legit enough, as the two other judges haven't shown still, then go ahead. Or we simply keep it for a further round. Up to the participants and you.
From what I've calculated, MrMicah is #1, RockDonkey is #2 and Rookie is #3. But if other people aren't up anymore to give their prizes...then I don't know. There's Vishus and AJUK that were donating the 2 other prizes.

Understood!
MrMicah, PM me with your details and I'll send the watch.

[RockDonkey]

Hrm! I would like to wait for all the judges to vote before a winner is announced because my short has a substance that might break the world news barrier (Amnesty turning victim of crime away because the case is too hot). The substance is a quality in mine that I think an objective judge should notice. Sure a judge may vote the way he like and choose to reward what he likes, but among friends one must avoid for sympathy points to count too much. The comments so far seem to miss that the theme makes it possible for me to use shaky camera as an effect and a judge should not flaw the film maker for sticking to the theme. As goes with acting because it's the authentic person you see. Can't say I suck as an actor for looking like an idiot when I truly feel like an idiot talking about the case etc. You get my point.

[drapeama]

MrMicah has produced an admirable short and has put a lot of effort into it, so in my opinion, he deserves the prize.
I think too. And I think that the 3 reviews posted (and it's not because some other official judges weren't available during this time) were fair enough to me. Correct me if I'm wrong.

Understood!
You're the one that donates the prize, so it's your call. I remember back a couple contest when I won a prize and AJUK kept arguing that it wasn't fair. I never saw that prize and it was ok, I mean, he's the one that's decided to give away the prize. No one here makes money out of that, there's prize because some people shows good intentions.


Hrm! I would like to wait for all the judges to vote before a winner is announced because my short has a substance that might break the world news barrier (Amnesty turning victim of crime away because the case is too hot). The substance is a quality in mine that I think an objective judge should notice. Sure a judge may vote the way he like and choose to reward what he likes, but among friends one must avoid for sympathy points to count too much.
1) From what I'm reading, there's a lot of emotions (and especially angry) in these words.

The comments so far seem to miss that the theme makes it possible for me to use shaky camera as an effect and a judge should not flaw the film maker for sticking to the theme. As goes with acting because it's the authentic person you see. Can't say I suck as an actor for looking like an idiot when I truly feel like an idiot talking about the case etc. You get my point.
2) From what I remember in my review (even if it's not 100% official), as you're saying that, I think I've wrote it clearly that it's:

All in all, even if the style was simple, didn't required a lot of work, it was well done in that category. It was a nice documentary!
So I don't think I've much criticized it, but that I've more gave my opinion on it. It respected well the fact that it's a documentary by it's style, and it was well done that way.
Anyway, if AJUK and Vishus can post their reviews, we'll be set. All in all, I think everyone has done a great job in each videos, in their respective way.

[HueyNRolf]

Hrm! I would like to wait for all the judges to vote before a winner is announced because my short has a substance that might break the world news barrier (Amnesty turning victim of crime away because the case is too hot). The substance is a quality in mine that I think an objective judge should notice. Sure a judge may vote the way he like and choose to reward what he likes, but among friends one must avoid for sympathy points to count too much. The comments so far seem to miss that the theme makes it possible for me to use shaky camera as an effect and a judge should not flaw the film maker for sticking to the theme. As goes with acting because it's the authentic person you see. Can't say I suck as an actor for looking like an idiot when I truly feel like an idiot talking about the case etc. You get my point.

No offense, but I think you'll agree that the entry chosen had a lot more work put in than yours. That doesn't make it better, but it does influence the judges' decision, we're only human.

All you can do is give them all a fair viewing, I always watch them at least twice, pick the one you like best and write up some comments.

Just to be clear I voted for the one I liked best and no amount of debating can change that. I can't speak for Draps or Playing, but they're both well respected and contributing members here. I'm sure they acted sincerely.

[drapeama]

Just to be clear I voted for the one I liked best and no amount of debating can change that. I can't speak for Draps or Playing, but they're both well respected and contributing members here. I'm sure they acted sincerely.

I did voted for the best entry. I've reviewed each one with their pros and con and I think it was fair enough. That's how I've designed the template for the reviews.

[Playing]

I have also watched all entries twice and stand by my comments.
RockDonkey you seem to take this as a judgment of you as a person which it is not.

[drapeama]

I have also watched all entries twice and stand by my comments.
RockDonkey you seem to take this as a judgment of you as a person which it is not.

1) Same here.
2) That's what I think too. I don't know why, but it seems that he took that personally. I think we've been writing the reviews quite fairly.

[AJUK]

Apologies for the late reviews. Here are my reviews and scores for #35.




MrMicah - Unexpected

Story/Concept : 18/25
Cinematography : 18/25
Sound: 16/25
Post Production : 20/25

Overall Score: 72/100

This was easily the most polished of the entries, right from the opening it was obviously a very polished production. The story was a little thin, and the ending was particularly obvious, but with some trimming this would be quite strong.

The acting was generally good, the ‘texting’ sequence would have benefited from some more cutaways as watching people type is not usually gripping cinema.

The grading and editing were generally good, with some nice touches like the split screen and other effects, making the film feel closer to a professional effort than the other entries.

Overall I liked this entry, but it did feel overlong and would really benefit from being shorter. Great job MrMicah

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Rock Donkey - Daily Contrasts-Documentary

Story/Concept : 10/25
Cinematography : 8/25
Sound: 5/25
Post Production : 12/25

Overall Score : 35/100

The documentary aspect was a little thin in this one, I would have preferred more evidence of the Daily Contrasts of the title, there were some nice hints at the contrast between the history of the location and the current condition, as well as a good sense of place as the camera roamed the environment, but not as much contrast as the title would suggest.

I was less convinced by the narration, it’s not clear if this is a fictional narrative or an actual issue facing the filmmaker, but either way the delivery of the story and the poor sound quality really hampered it for me. I felt like this story would have benefited from more footage – for example we are told of the visit to Amnesty instead of seeing it? We are also not told why the police are after this character, or why Amnesty would be interested? If this is the narrators home country, then why is his passport running out? I found the story confusing and I tuned out.

The shaky camera work and poor quality audio really worked against this film, and the simplistic titles and absence of grading didn’t help to add any polish. With a tripod and a camera operator, this would have been so much more polished.

Overall this film feels like a missed opportunity to me, but I look forward to seeing what Rockdonkey comes up with next.

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RookieGigs - The Choice

Story/Concept : 12/25
Cinematography : 8/25
Sound: 8/25
Post Production : 12/25

Overall Score : 40/100

This one had very simple concept and execution, overall I felt it was perhaps a little slow-paced considering the content. This film could have been edited down into a snappy thirty second piece that might have worked more strongly. I would also have liked to see more of the daydream aspect, the character imagines what will happen if she doesn’t study, but this could have been expanded to make the point clearer, or we could also see the imagined version of what will go down at the party?

The camerawork was very functional, and more difference between the shots would have helped, the side/rear views were shot on very similar lengths, I would have liked to see closer shots.

Sound was a little muddy for me, I had to really crank the volume to hear what she was saying as she read the text, and although the editing was functional, I would have liked to see more of the stylistic flair suggested by the black and white dream sequence. This film would suit some abstract or macro shots, bringing the focus more closely onto the phone and the intrusion of technology into the sterile studying environment.

Overall this film was a little too thin for its running length, a much shorter edit would have really helped. I look forward to seeing the next one from Rookiegigs.




So, my vote also goes to MrMicah for his 'unexpected' entry. A polished effort, albeit one with a few flaws. It was easily the strongest entry for this competition.

[RockDonkey]

drapeama I wrote you a PM so you know that I started the discussion because I find that the competition needs it. You know that there is no anger in my comments.

[drapeama]

And my vote goes to MrMicah for his 'unexpected' entry (no pun intended!). Let's see other judges' reviews!


My unofficial vote goes to: MrMicah - Unexpected


My vote goes to MrMicah - Unexpected
Draps, sorry again for my late response. I know the other two reviews aren't official, but they're valid, I'd say. Unless anyone has any objections, why don't you close this contest and move on to the next?


So congratulations to MrMicah for his 1st Place in this round!


So, my vote also goes to MrMicah for his 'unexpected' entry. A polished effort, albeit one with a few flaws. It was easily the strongest entry for this competition.

All right, so 4 votes out of 4 different judges, officials and unofficials.


You know that there is no anger in my comments.
I know! And I hope everything is ok now. A little discussion is always nice. Is there anything else we should discuss?

[Vishus]

Hey Folks!

Sorry for being gone for so long. I think it's been months since I logged in! I've watched the three entries, and would have also voted for "unexpected".

I'll leave brief notes on each!

The choice: Good first go at it! Lingered on some shots too long, even though it was about 2:30, you could have cut it down more! Look forward to seeing more from you. Keep it up!

Unexpected: Nice job! some shots you can cut out all together, I guessed the twist wrong, so good job there. Decent story, just too long in my opinion. Hoping to see more from you as well!

Daily Contrasts: Felt like a work in progress, but definitely left me wanting MUCH more information. This is something I believe you can build on and make a really compelling piece! (I like the new intro too!)

[drapeama]

Hey Folks! Sorry for being gone for so long. I think it's been months since I logged in! I've watched the three entries, and would have also voted for "unexpected".

Thanks for your review Randy! In the end, the winner was unanimous! Congratulations to MrMicah and thanks to everyone that has participate! Hope to see you in the next round as well!

[RockDonkey]

Thanks Vishus, finally a civilized comment about my film. Not the "I know better"-finger pointing. I'm applying for a country to live in where others apply for work. Made this so that they can get a footage about who the person is that they'd take under protection. Spontaneous looking feels much more honest, so that's why it got this video-blog style and why I only mention the political situation in a couple key sentences.

[MrMicah]

Thanks to all the judges for the feedback. I really enjoyed making my film and I can use your thoughts to make the next one better.

I'm glad I managed to surprise with the ending because that was the intent, along with the contrast between how the two female leads interacted with the male lead.

Thanks also to RockDonkey and RookieGigs for entering as well. It takes a lot more work that expected to make a short film. You two had the perseverance to take your concepts and execute them and I enjoyed both of your films.

RookieG, for your first film it looks like you did lots of things right - the use of a tripod to avoid shaky footage, some variation of angles and some editing of footage to make the 'story' more interesting. I'm going to guess your age (in my head) and I'd say that I would never have had the skill or confidence to put together a short film like yours at your age. I've come to making films late, but with a few more years under my belt and I can use that to my advantage. I think if you keep going, learning things from where you are now, you are going to have the potential to make some really great films.

RockDonkey, I particularly enjoyed some of the 'spice' that you brought to the competition while we were doing trailers and posters. You spotted that I had an concept that was a bit ambitious with my poster and you urged me not to fail. It made me determined to deliver a creditable film. I thought it was good that your were able to get an actual trailer posted and it generated some interest in your film I think. I was busy trying to put shots together and fix the sound up until the end, so if a trailer was required I would have been in real trouble. I do like your film for the sense of 'place' and 'circumstance' it provides.

I'm looking forward to seeing what both of you do for your next entries.

[Playing]

Thanks Vishus, finally a civilized comment about my film. Not the "I know better"-finger pointing.
What's not civilized about any of the feedback you got?
We understand that you are under personal pressure but that is no excuse to dump on your audience.

[drapeama]

What's not civilized about any of the feedback you got?
We understand that you are under personal pressure but that is no excuse to dump on your audience.

I was wondering the same.

[RockDonkey]

And you're wondering. Look at Huey for instance who says I haven't invested much work in mine. He practically puts his whole credibility behind his statement. What is he thinking? That I've made a stupid fake documentary? A real documentary does not write itself it has to be lived. As background information: it is an achievement to be thrown out from the home country and not just framed. Takes a lot of work to achieve such a status. It's not a minor crime that they do and they don't do it lightly. And without this work this story could not be told. I'm not a fan of amateurs giving advice as if they were professionals because it looks totally weird.

[HueyNRolf]

Look at Huey for instance who says I haven't invested much work in mine. He practically puts his whole credibility behind his statement. What is he thinking? That I've made a stupid fake documentary?

I'm sorry you see it that way, but now I think you're being unfair. Just to be clear, I said that more work went into the winning entry. Please remember this is a short film contest, so the judges have to make comparative observations. That's the nature of the beast. I did point out that more work doesn't = better, it was merely a consideration. I and others pointed out that it was unclear what was going on in your movie, you can read into that as you please, but for the record, I don't think it is a stupid-fake documentary. I think it is a well conceived idea that missed its mark on a few levels.

[HueyNRolf]

I'm not a fan of amateurs giving advice as if they were professionals because it looks totally weird.

Then why did you enter? I'm sorry man, but that's just rude.

[drapeama]

I'm sorry man, but that's just rude.
It is, unfortunately.

[Playing]

Writing, directing and acting in a video, then putting it on the Internet for all to see and comment on was one of the more difficult things I have done in my life. I could not have done it 10 Years ago without suffering diarrhea and feeling like I am having a heart attack.

So I have no problems with what is going on here at the moment.

[RockDonkey]

Rude comments about someone's art is rude. That it bounces back is just normal. I didn't do my film for the sake of being rude.

[HueyNRolf]

Rude comments about someone's art is rude. That it bounces back is just normal. I didn't do my film for the sake of being rude.

I didn't mean to be rude, in fact I was trying to be nice. But, if you like, I can take off my little white gloves and rewrite my review of your movie. I'd suggest you try and and get over yourself and move on to the next. It's up to you, my friend?

[drapeama]

I'd suggest you try and and get over yourself and move on to the next.
I'd suggest everyone should do that.

[HueyNRolf]

I'd suggest everyone should do that.

Wise words. Maybe this thread should be closed now?

[drapeama]

Wise words. Maybe this thread should be closed now?

Good thing. First time a thread here gets closed, but I think it would be preferable.