Monday, June 3, 2013
Sunday, June 2, 2013
Class Evaluation
Class Evaluation
1. In general, what did you like most about this class?
Alex Leo <3
2. In general, what did you like least about this class?
Alex Leo >:(
Also, honestly, the final project (see below).
3. What were your most favorite project and least favorite project and why?
Favorite project - short narrative. I like writing fiction. I also wish I had done something for my free project, but I used my SkillsUSA project for that instead.
4. Do you feel that this class will help you achieve your future academic or career goals? How or why (or why not)?
God I hope so. I'm going into a Video Production class knowing some actual software skills. Hopefully that helps me.
5. Additional comments:
1. In general, what did you like most about this class?
Alex Leo <3
Also just...making films. Using the equipment. Learning the software, all that jazz.
2. In general, what did you like least about this class?
Alex Leo >:(
Also, honestly, the final project (see below).
3. What were your most favorite project and least favorite project and why?
Favorite project - short narrative. I like writing fiction. I also wish I had done something for my free project, but I used my SkillsUSA project for that instead.
Least favorite project - the final (color) project. I just couldn't figure out what I even remotely wanted to do with that project, and so I procrastinated. I really feel like the final should be an actual short (read: 15-20 minute) film, but it's not my class. ;P
4. Do you feel that this class will help you achieve your future academic or career goals? How or why (or why not)?
God I hope so. I'm going into a Video Production class knowing some actual software skills. Hopefully that helps me.
5. Additional comments:
#YOLOSWAG420
Deuces!
Reality TV
Three things I didn't know:
1. Reality TV is watched together with families.
2. Many adults don't want to watch shows written for children.
3. The show SWAT had a great theme song.
Two opinions:
1. Ugh, reality shows. No thanks. I'll watch literally anything else.
2. That SWAT theme song is pretty great.
One question:
1. Why don't people watch more entertainment that isn't on television, like stuff on YouTube?
1. Reality TV is watched together with families.
2. Many adults don't want to watch shows written for children.
3. The show SWAT had a great theme song.
Two opinions:
1. Ugh, reality shows. No thanks. I'll watch literally anything else.
2. That SWAT theme song is pretty great.
One question:
1. Why don't people watch more entertainment that isn't on television, like stuff on YouTube?
You Think Your Film was a Challenge?
Three Things I Didn't Know:
1. Aleksandr Petrov’s 1999 adaptation of Hemmingway’s The Old Man and the Sea was the first animated film released into IMAX theaters.
2. The film is essentially stop-motion with paintings.
3. The film took over 2.5 years to fully animate.
Two Opinions:
1. I looked this up on YouTube and watched some of it. Holy. Crap. I can't even imagine animating this. It's paintings, but...a lot of them. A LOT of them.
2. I'm glad this won an Oscar.
One Question:
1. Why would you ever choose to do it this way?
1. Aleksandr Petrov’s 1999 adaptation of Hemmingway’s The Old Man and the Sea was the first animated film released into IMAX theaters.
2. The film is essentially stop-motion with paintings.
3. The film took over 2.5 years to fully animate.
Two Opinions:
1. I looked this up on YouTube and watched some of it. Holy. Crap. I can't even imagine animating this. It's paintings, but...a lot of them. A LOT of them.
2. I'm glad this won an Oscar.
One Question:
1. Why would you ever choose to do it this way?
Sunday, May 19, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: I have 12 - count them, TWELVE - days of school left. Holy crap.
What I want to learn in the future: I'm in the middle of helping my friends with a video for their AP chemistry class. It's going to be like nothing else I've ever made, and a lot of the stuff will be trial and error.
Something that frustrated me: People won't shut up about prom. At least it's over. Also I missed my bus for BOCES on Friday.
Something that made me happy: My friend Russ got his Eagle project done in three hours. I hope mine is just as successful. Two weeks :o
Here's the Casino Royale intro scene remade in Legos.
What I want to learn in the future: I'm in the middle of helping my friends with a video for their AP chemistry class. It's going to be like nothing else I've ever made, and a lot of the stuff will be trial and error.
Something that frustrated me: People won't shut up about prom. At least it's over. Also I missed my bus for BOCES on Friday.
Something that made me happy: My friend Russ got his Eagle project done in three hours. I hope mine is just as successful. Two weeks :o
Here's the Casino Royale intro scene remade in Legos.
6 Doc Mistakes
Three things I didn't know:
1. The biggest mistake is choosing a poor theme to make your documentary about.
2. There are poor ways to create past events in documentaries.
3. Documentaries need some kind of script or they fall apart.
Two opinions:
1. It's incredibly hard to make a documentary that grabs the general publics attention.
2. Some documentaries can be pretty boring.
One question:
1. Why are documentaries so hard to make?
Brave Sexism
Three things I didn't know:
1. That Merida was officially a Disney Princess.
2. Disney changed her appearance to seem more feminine.
3. The writer of the film modeled the character after her daughter.
Two opinions:
1. Disney should fix this. There's no reason to change her appearance.
2. All the Disney princesses are a little sexist. Ariel the Mermaid gave up her ability to speak for a guy. Talk about some serious undertones right there.
One question:
1. Why did they change her appearance?
1. That Merida was officially a Disney Princess.
2. Disney changed her appearance to seem more feminine.
3. The writer of the film modeled the character after her daughter.
Two opinions:
1. Disney should fix this. There's no reason to change her appearance.
2. All the Disney princesses are a little sexist. Ariel the Mermaid gave up her ability to speak for a guy. Talk about some serious undertones right there.
One question:
1. Why did they change her appearance?
Sunday, May 12, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: Next year's digital media kids are promising.
What I want to learn in the future: How to keep my focus up for the next year.
Something that frustrated me: My procrastination has gotten out of control.
Something that made me happy: The play was really, really successful! Yay!
So, what would happen if you made a record out wood instead of vinyl, and then put Radiohead on it?
You'd get this.
Radiohead - Idioteque - Laser Cut Wood Record from Amanda Ghassaei on Vimeo.
What I want to learn in the future: How to keep my focus up for the next year.
Something that frustrated me: My procrastination has gotten out of control.
Something that made me happy: The play was really, really successful! Yay!
So, what would happen if you made a record out wood instead of vinyl, and then put Radiohead on it?
You'd get this.
Radiohead - Idioteque - Laser Cut Wood Record from Amanda Ghassaei on Vimeo.
Crowdfunding
Three things I did not know:
1. The creator of Rocko's Modern Life made a Kickstarter three years ago.
2. Another British cartoonist is attempting to Kickstart something he made for Cartoon Network UK.
3. There are some websites that will help with funding to keep television shows alive.
Two opinions:
1. That British cartoon isn't going to get funded and that makes me sad, mostly because I'm a sucker for cute children and British accents. Combine them? I start throwing my wallet at the screen.
2. Kickstarter is good, but not everything produced there is always a good piece of entertainment.
One question:
1. Why does three more animated versions of that show cost $58000 (translated from pounds)?
1. The creator of Rocko's Modern Life made a Kickstarter three years ago.
2. Another British cartoonist is attempting to Kickstart something he made for Cartoon Network UK.
3. There are some websites that will help with funding to keep television shows alive.
Two opinions:
1. That British cartoon isn't going to get funded and that makes me sad, mostly because I'm a sucker for cute children and British accents. Combine them? I start throwing my wallet at the screen.
2. Kickstarter is good, but not everything produced there is always a good piece of entertainment.
One question:
1. Why does three more animated versions of that show cost $58000 (translated from pounds)?
First Film on iPad 2
Three things I did not know:
1. That this film existed.
2. The filmmaker compared using the iPad to to using 8mm film.
3. The filmmaker preferred the way the iPad made his video look.
Two opinions:
1. Meh. If it's the only thing you have, sure. Why not?
2. That trailer is one of the weirdest things I've seen.
One question:
1. Why not buy a $500 camera instead of an iPad?
1. That this film existed.
2. The filmmaker compared using the iPad to to using 8mm film.
3. The filmmaker preferred the way the iPad made his video look.
Two opinions:
1. Meh. If it's the only thing you have, sure. Why not?
2. That trailer is one of the weirdest things I've seen.
One question:
1. Why not buy a $500 camera instead of an iPad?
Sunday, May 5, 2013
Weekly comments
What I learned this week: I actually tried to learn some time management things.
What I want to learn in the future: How to not be so tired.
Something that frustrated me: That the weekend is already over.
Something that made me happy: Iron Man 3 was pretty good.
I'm on my iPad because I'm too lazy to grab my laptop, so... Here's a link to LEGO Breaking Bad. Pretty good. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSUK4WgQ3vk
What I want to learn in the future: How to not be so tired.
Something that frustrated me: That the weekend is already over.
Something that made me happy: Iron Man 3 was pretty good.
I'm on my iPad because I'm too lazy to grab my laptop, so... Here's a link to LEGO Breaking Bad. Pretty good. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fSUK4WgQ3vk
Cute Characters
Three things I did not know:
1. To make cute characters, you need big eyes.
2. You should make the character look well fed.
3. Cuteness isn't just in the physical ports of a cartoon.
Two opinions:
1. Not all of the characters mentioned on the article are all that cute.
2. Sometimes characters shouldn't undergo transformations.
One question:
1. Why are the eyes the most important part of a character?
1. To make cute characters, you need big eyes.
2. You should make the character look well fed.
3. Cuteness isn't just in the physical ports of a cartoon.
Two opinions:
1. Not all of the characters mentioned on the article are all that cute.
2. Sometimes characters shouldn't undergo transformations.
One question:
1. Why are the eyes the most important part of a character?
Vine
Three things I didn't know:
1. You could win $600 through Tribeca's Vine contest.
2. To make a six second film, you should always plan it out.
3. Leave the audience interested.
Two opinions:
1: I disagree with some other blog responders; to make a cohesive, enjoyable film in six seconds takes some serious talent.
2. Then again, they're pretty easy to mess up.
One question:
1. When will Vine come to Android?
1. You could win $600 through Tribeca's Vine contest.
2. To make a six second film, you should always plan it out.
3. Leave the audience interested.
Two opinions:
1: I disagree with some other blog responders; to make a cohesive, enjoyable film in six seconds takes some serious talent.
2. Then again, they're pretty easy to mess up.
One question:
1. When will Vine come to Android?
Sunday, April 28, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: Going on a trip to a state competition puts you WAY behind work-wise.
What I want to learn in the future: How to stay focused in these last few weeks.
Something that frustrated me: That contest. I feel cheated because of the time restraints. 1pm means 1pm, not 2:30pm. Ugh.
Something that made me happy: I missed a lot of school this week :P
Hey, so I haven't finished this film, but it's pretty good so far. It's called Spy vs Guy, and it's on Vimeo. Click the link!
What I want to learn in the future: How to stay focused in these last few weeks.
Something that frustrated me: That contest. I feel cheated because of the time restraints. 1pm means 1pm, not 2:30pm. Ugh.
Something that made me happy: I missed a lot of school this week :P
Hey, so I haven't finished this film, but it's pretty good so far. It's called Spy vs Guy, and it's on Vimeo. Click the link!
Pixar / Moore's Law
Three things I didn't know:
1. The Pixar guys knew that they would eventually be able to make something like Toy Story because of Moore's law.
2. Moore's law used both 12 months and then 24 months, and currently uses the average of 18 months (I normally hear 12 months, but that's just me.)
3. Moore's law is much like evolution - tiny changes become big results.
Two opinions:
1. Moore's law has become less useful in recent years as processor growth has slowed.
2. Animation will only keep getting better.
One question:
1. Imagine what animation will be like in 20 years? Lifelike?
1. The Pixar guys knew that they would eventually be able to make something like Toy Story because of Moore's law.
2. Moore's law used both 12 months and then 24 months, and currently uses the average of 18 months (I normally hear 12 months, but that's just me.)
3. Moore's law is much like evolution - tiny changes become big results.
Two opinions:
1. Moore's law has become less useful in recent years as processor growth has slowed.
2. Animation will only keep getting better.
One question:
1. Imagine what animation will be like in 20 years? Lifelike?
Robotz
Three things I didn't know:
1. Robots are directing films now.
2. There are robots voiced by a seven year old boy.
3. They've already entered contests.
Two opinions:
1. DEY'RE ADOWABLE! (Translation: They're adorable.)
2. Robots making movies? We're all screwed.
One question:
1. How can I get one? "Robot, do my BOCES final project."
1. Robots are directing films now.
2. There are robots voiced by a seven year old boy.
3. They've already entered contests.
Two opinions:
1. DEY'RE ADOWABLE! (Translation: They're adorable.)
2. Robots making movies? We're all screwed.
One question:
1. How can I get one? "Robot, do my BOCES final project."
Friday, April 19, 2013
Neil T. Weakly Comments
What I learned this week: That staying focused thing? Gonna be tougher than I thought.
What I want to learn in the future: How great summer is. To learn this, I need to start sleeping in every day. Is everyone okay with this? Yes? Okay, cool.
Something that frustrated me: Lack of sleep. Lack of focus. My League of Legends game has been off.
Something that made me happy: Daft Punk's new single, "Get Lucky!"
Here's Patton Oswalt's complete nine minute uncut version of his filibuster speech from this week's Parks and Recreation episode. In it, he discusses his plans for Star Wars Episode VII, which includes an Avengers crossover and a decapitated, but not dead, Chewbacca.
Seriously, watch this.
What I want to learn in the future: How great summer is. To learn this, I need to start sleeping in every day. Is everyone okay with this? Yes? Okay, cool.
Something that frustrated me: Lack of sleep. Lack of focus. My League of Legends game has been off.
Something that made me happy: Daft Punk's new single, "Get Lucky!"
Here's Patton Oswalt's complete nine minute uncut version of his filibuster speech from this week's Parks and Recreation episode. In it, he discusses his plans for Star Wars Episode VII, which includes an Avengers crossover and a decapitated, but not dead, Chewbacca.
Seriously, watch this.
Jonathan Coulton Starts Kicking
Three things I didn't know:
1. That Jonathan Coultan had a Kickstarter.
2. That he was going to make a Code Monkey comic.
3. The comic is called "Code Monkey Save World," which totally sounds like something from the song. "Code Monkey get up, get coffee. Code Monkey save world."
Two opinions:
1. I can't listen to Code Monkey anymore. Not after last year.
2. It's awesome that the comic takes characters from several different JoCo songs. Am I hip for saying JoCo?
One question:
1. Will Kickstarter ever become unsuccessful?
1. That Jonathan Coultan had a Kickstarter.
2. That he was going to make a Code Monkey comic.
3. The comic is called "Code Monkey Save World," which totally sounds like something from the song. "Code Monkey get up, get coffee. Code Monkey save world."
Two opinions:
1. I can't listen to Code Monkey anymore. Not after last year.
2. It's awesome that the comic takes characters from several different JoCo songs. Am I hip for saying JoCo?
One question:
1. Will Kickstarter ever become unsuccessful?
Disney Theft
1. Disney steals?!
2. Companies sometimes don't do checks to see if their images are copyrighted elsewhere online.
3. There's almost nothing that Woodger can do to stop this.
Two opinions:
1. Disney sucks.
2. Stealing is bad. Stealing a design someone worked really, really hard on is worse.
One question:
1. What does everyone think of my photoshop?
Thursday, April 11, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: These last two months are going to be a slog, and I need to learn to stay focused.
What I want to learn in the future: How to not forget what to do. Maybe I need to make weekly lists. I don't want to, but if I have to, I will.
Something that frustrated me: My play. I feel uncomfortable in every practice. It isn't good.
Something that made me happy: Um. This week has gone by fairly fast, but I've been exhausted.
Elysium, the newest film from Neill Blomkamp (director of District 9) looks awesome. Check out the trailer.
What I want to learn in the future: How to not forget what to do. Maybe I need to make weekly lists. I don't want to, but if I have to, I will.
Something that frustrated me: My play. I feel uncomfortable in every practice. It isn't good.
Something that made me happy: Um. This week has gone by fairly fast, but I've been exhausted.
Elysium, the newest film from Neill Blomkamp (director of District 9) looks awesome. Check out the trailer.
Smell-O-Vision
Three things I didn't know:
1. It started in the 1960 film Scent of Mystery
2. They used cotton soaked in rose oil and then put it in front of a fan.
3. This new screen has fans in each corner.
Two opinions:
1. This is dumb. I don't want to smell my films. Ever. Kthx.
2. I'm sick of gimmicks. Let me watch a film in 2D, in 24fps, in the highest quality possible. That cool?
One question:
1. Are people dumb enough to want this?
1. It started in the 1960 film Scent of Mystery
2. They used cotton soaked in rose oil and then put it in front of a fan.
3. This new screen has fans in each corner.
Two opinions:
1. This is dumb. I don't want to smell my films. Ever. Kthx.
2. I'm sick of gimmicks. Let me watch a film in 2D, in 24fps, in the highest quality possible. That cool?
One question:
1. Are people dumb enough to want this?
Improving Stories
Three things I didn't know:
1. You should always open with a hook, or else the audience won't buy into the story.
2. Always show, don't tell.
3. The ending needs to have a punch, or it won't stick.
Two opinions:
1. Show, don't tell, is maybe the most important rule in filmmaking.
2. These are all really good tips, things everyone should take to heart.
One question:
1. How do you show inside a character's head while in a film?
1. You should always open with a hook, or else the audience won't buy into the story.
2. Always show, don't tell.
3. The ending needs to have a punch, or it won't stick.
Two opinions:
1. Show, don't tell, is maybe the most important rule in filmmaking.
2. These are all really good tips, things everyone should take to heart.
One question:
1. How do you show inside a character's head while in a film?
Sunday, March 24, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: I learned I'm pretty horrible at pixilation.
What I want to learn in the future: How to not be completely awkward at everything.
Something that frustrated me: My pixilation sucks, in my opinion.
Something that made me happy: This is going to sound horribly pathetic, but not much has made me happy this week. It's been a rough one. I guess I'm glad it's over.
I don't feel well. Here's Tina Fey reviving her role as Sarah Palin.
What I want to learn in the future: How to not be completely awkward at everything.
Something that frustrated me: My pixilation sucks, in my opinion.
Something that made me happy: This is going to sound horribly pathetic, but not much has made me happy this week. It's been a rough one. I guess I'm glad it's over.
I don't feel well. Here's Tina Fey reviving her role as Sarah Palin.
8 Steps to Filming in the Winter
Three things I didn't know:
1. An emergency blanket can be great as a barrier between gear and the ground.
2. Underexpose your image when shooting outside.
3. Plastic bags will help keep your gear dry.
Two opinions:
1. Shooting in the snow absolutely sucks. It's so cold.
2. A lot of my video poem is set outside. So that should be interesting.
One question:
1. Where can you get high quality clear plastic bags for equipment?
1. An emergency blanket can be great as a barrier between gear and the ground.
2. Underexpose your image when shooting outside.
3. Plastic bags will help keep your gear dry.
Two opinions:
1. Shooting in the snow absolutely sucks. It's so cold.
2. A lot of my video poem is set outside. So that should be interesting.
One question:
1. Where can you get high quality clear plastic bags for equipment?
Oz
Three things I didn't know:
1. A visual effects company contributed over 1,100 shots to Oz.
2. Even though it's a Disney film, Sony did the visual effects.
3. Designers from Alice in Wonderland worked on this film.
Two opinions:
1. This film looks a lot like Alice, so I can't say I'm surprised.
2. I'm not at all interested in this film. Maybe on DVD?
One question:
1. Is the sequel going to be a remake of the original Wizard of Oz? (short answer: probably)
Sunday, March 17, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: Stress is the worst. The. Worst.
What I want to learn in the future: I've actually just started learning time management. I made a list this week, and am going to try to follow it. I'm counting this as the future, because I don't know if it'll work.
Something that frustrated me: I've been sick. I hate hate hate hate being sick.
Something that made me happy: I watched Spy Kids 3D with friends over the weekend at a party. That film? Biggest pile of crap. Also hilarious. There is absolutely no logic, and it is amazing.
Hey. Hey you. Yeah, you. Know what I'm doing right now?
I'm breaking the fourth wall.
This should be mostly appropriate. Watched it a couple days ago and I don't remember anything too bad.
What I want to learn in the future: I've actually just started learning time management. I made a list this week, and am going to try to follow it. I'm counting this as the future, because I don't know if it'll work.
Something that frustrated me: I've been sick. I hate hate hate hate being sick.
Something that made me happy: I watched Spy Kids 3D with friends over the weekend at a party. That film? Biggest pile of crap. Also hilarious. There is absolutely no logic, and it is amazing.
Hey. Hey you. Yeah, you. Know what I'm doing right now?
I'm breaking the fourth wall.
This should be mostly appropriate. Watched it a couple days ago and I don't remember anything too bad.
Pixar's Senior Scientist
(Side note: The Verge is one of my favorite websites. I love these guys. Been with them literally since the day it launched. Seriously.)
Three things I didn't know:
1. Pixar has a senior scientist. Who knew?
2. Hair, cloth, fluids, and gaseous phenomena like clouds, smoke, and fire all have their own physics at Pixar.
3. Blender can do almost all the things Pixar's computers can do.
Two opinions:
1. I wish I was better at math. This stuff is just crazy. I haven't seen Brave, but the hair alone is amazing. We've gone so far from Toy Story to Brave.
2. Blender is kinda crazy. Wish I knew how to use it.
One question:
1. Why am I so bad at math?! :(
Blogging With Video
Three things I did not know:
1. It would take 72 hours to watch all the video uploaded to YouTube every minute. (Is this a copout? lulz)
2. Talking to a camera can be difficult, since the camera can't give you a response back.
3. Imagining you're talking to a imaginary person can help you overcome point number two.
Two opinions:
1. Most YouTube vlogs suck. Fo' real.
2. I've never really been able to stick with vlogs. The closest I've come is Jeremy Jahn's YouTube channel, where he reviews movies and sometimes talks about his opinion on certain (movie/TV show related) news.
One question:
1. Why do people think other people care about their thoughts? Unless you're really funny or have an interesting view on life, we don't. Sorry.
1. It would take 72 hours to watch all the video uploaded to YouTube every minute. (Is this a copout? lulz)
2. Talking to a camera can be difficult, since the camera can't give you a response back.
3. Imagining you're talking to a imaginary person can help you overcome point number two.
Two opinions:
1. Most YouTube vlogs suck. Fo' real.
2. I've never really been able to stick with vlogs. The closest I've come is Jeremy Jahn's YouTube channel, where he reviews movies and sometimes talks about his opinion on certain (movie/TV show related) news.
One question:
1. Why do people think other people care about their thoughts? Unless you're really funny or have an interesting view on life, we don't. Sorry.
Sunday, March 10, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: How to pick up a high A on a sound board without getting a shrill noise from the microphone.
What I want to learn in the future: More time management. I'm pretty bad at it.
Something that frustrated me: I'm getting sick, as I always do after musical.
Something that made me happy: Musical was great. Seriously.
So since the musical was this week, I haven't been able to find many videos that went viral. So instead, here's one of my favorite songs from our musical, Oklahoma. It's not my top song (that's probably Kansas City), but it's in my top three.
What I want to learn in the future: More time management. I'm pretty bad at it.
Something that frustrated me: I'm getting sick, as I always do after musical.
Something that made me happy: Musical was great. Seriously.
So since the musical was this week, I haven't been able to find many videos that went viral. So instead, here's one of my favorite songs from our musical, Oklahoma. It's not my top song (that's probably Kansas City), but it's in my top three.
Indian Visual Effects Artist
Three things I didn't know:
1. Two of the biggest VFX companies have declared bankruptcy in the past six months.
2. A lot of their work is being outsourced to countries like India.
3. Sometimes Indian VFX artists have to work for months without pay.
Two opinions:
1. These work conditions are disgusting.
2. The guy who wrote this seems cool. I'm glad he was able to take a route that made him happy in life, even if he made less working freelance.
One question:
1. Why do people put up with this?
1. Two of the biggest VFX companies have declared bankruptcy in the past six months.
2. A lot of their work is being outsourced to countries like India.
3. Sometimes Indian VFX artists have to work for months without pay.
Two opinions:
1. These work conditions are disgusting.
2. The guy who wrote this seems cool. I'm glad he was able to take a route that made him happy in life, even if he made less working freelance.
One question:
1. Why do people put up with this?
Visual Effects
Three things I didn't know:
1. Hollywood had yet another record breaking year last year. Makes sense - The Avengers alone was huge.
2. Subsidies are ruining the VFX industry.
3. Cheaper labor in foreign countries is also harming the industry as a whole.
Two opinions:
1. I watched the Oscars. Cutting off someone who is essentially losing their jobs? Kind of a crappy thing to do to someone. Especially when they had musical numbers from Chicago and Dream Girls in there for no good reason.
2. Ang Lee is a jerk for not mentioning the FX people who worked on the film in his speech. From what I've heard, the effects in that film are the majority of the reason to see it.
One question:
1. Why do the Oscars give so much time to things that don't deserve it.
1. Hollywood had yet another record breaking year last year. Makes sense - The Avengers alone was huge.
2. Subsidies are ruining the VFX industry.
3. Cheaper labor in foreign countries is also harming the industry as a whole.
Two opinions:
1. I watched the Oscars. Cutting off someone who is essentially losing their jobs? Kind of a crappy thing to do to someone. Especially when they had musical numbers from Chicago and Dream Girls in there for no good reason.
2. Ang Lee is a jerk for not mentioning the FX people who worked on the film in his speech. From what I've heard, the effects in that film are the majority of the reason to see it.
One question:
1. Why do the Oscars give so much time to things that don't deserve it.
Sunday, March 3, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: Time management. Rather, how horrible I am at time management.
What I want to learn in the future: How to wake up at 4 in the morning for Tuesday. That's gonna be rough.
Something that frustrated me: I'm way behind on our next project. Gonna have to pull a miracle on this one.
Something that made me happy: BAGELS! Also, our freaking play is done! I'm so, so excited for this thing to happen.
So, this is a week or two old at this point, but it's still awesome. The Verge, one of my favorite blogs, got an exclusive hands-on with Google Glass, which I want pretty much more than anything. The video is super well put together. Check it out.
What I want to learn in the future: How to wake up at 4 in the morning for Tuesday. That's gonna be rough.
Something that frustrated me: I'm way behind on our next project. Gonna have to pull a miracle on this one.
Something that made me happy: BAGELS! Also, our freaking play is done! I'm so, so excited for this thing to happen.
So, this is a week or two old at this point, but it's still awesome. The Verge, one of my favorite blogs, got an exclusive hands-on with Google Glass, which I want pretty much more than anything. The video is super well put together. Check it out.
Filmmaking Tips from Disney
Three things I didn't know:
1. You should never throw away bad work.
2. Look for asymmetry - symmetry is boring.
3. Don't replicate your idols.
Two opinions:
1. I think the tip "don't replicate your idols" may be the most important in that article.
2. Disney is starting to grow on me as a company. The Avengers was great, and the upcoming films in that series are all directed by awesome people who have worked on awesome things. Plus, Star Wars.
One question:
1. What does the article mean by "explore all your possibilities in thumbnails"?
1. You should never throw away bad work.
2. Look for asymmetry - symmetry is boring.
3. Don't replicate your idols.
Two opinions:
1. I think the tip "don't replicate your idols" may be the most important in that article.
2. Disney is starting to grow on me as a company. The Avengers was great, and the upcoming films in that series are all directed by awesome people who have worked on awesome things. Plus, Star Wars.
One question:
1. What does the article mean by "explore all your possibilities in thumbnails"?
Motion Capture
Three things I did not know:
1. Andy Serkis will be involved in creating a new film studio called The Imaginarium.
2. That studio will also teach people the art of motion capture.
3. That studio is working on a new Animal Farm movie. I love that book.
Two opinions:
1. Motion capture definitely helps CGI look more believable.
2. That said, give me real effects over CGI any day of the week.
One question:
1. Why is Serkis the only notable motion capture name? Because when I think MC, I tend to think of Andy Serkis.
1. Andy Serkis will be involved in creating a new film studio called The Imaginarium.
2. That studio will also teach people the art of motion capture.
3. That studio is working on a new Animal Farm movie. I love that book.
Two opinions:
1. Motion capture definitely helps CGI look more believable.
2. That said, give me real effects over CGI any day of the week.
One question:
1. Why is Serkis the only notable motion capture name? Because when I think MC, I tend to think of Andy Serkis.
Sunday, February 17, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: That I need to get a move on on projects faster.
What I want to learn in the future: How to pull off this trailer correctly. It's almost done. I just want to get it right.
Something that frustrated me: Shadowers. BLEH. Actually these guys weren't too bad.
Something that made me happy: The play is going well! And musical began, so that's something.
Here's a...thing. From DayZ. Called Pretty Lady.
I'm tired. Happy Sunday.
What I want to learn in the future: How to pull off this trailer correctly. It's almost done. I just want to get it right.
Something that frustrated me: Shadowers. BLEH. Actually these guys weren't too bad.
Something that made me happy: The play is going well! And musical began, so that's something.
Here's a...thing. From DayZ. Called Pretty Lady.
I'm tired. Happy Sunday.
Small Screen Visionaries
Three things I didn't know:
1. Abrams wrote Armageddon. Well that's...something.
2. The guy responsible for Chuck (which I haven't seen but have heard good things) also made Gossip Girl.
3. The guy who remade BSG also worked on Star Trek: TNG. That's awesome.
Two opinions:
1. Firefly was great and Serenity is an amazing movie. I just wish Whedon didn't love to kill people off.
2. Anyone unhappy with how Lost ended and is worried for Star Wars needs to remember - JJ barely worked on Lost following season one. If you didn't like the ending (I didn't have much of a problem with it but I get the complaints), blame Damon Lindelof.
One question:
1. WHEN MORE STAR WARS?
1. Abrams wrote Armageddon. Well that's...something.
2. The guy responsible for Chuck (which I haven't seen but have heard good things) also made Gossip Girl.
3. The guy who remade BSG also worked on Star Trek: TNG. That's awesome.
Two opinions:
1. Firefly was great and Serenity is an amazing movie. I just wish Whedon didn't love to kill people off.
2. Anyone unhappy with how Lost ended and is worried for Star Wars needs to remember - JJ barely worked on Lost following season one. If you didn't like the ending (I didn't have much of a problem with it but I get the complaints), blame Damon Lindelof.
One question:
1. WHEN MORE STAR WARS?
Emoticon
Three things I didn't know:
1. The emoticon is still relevant.
2. Facebook wants a Pixar employee to help reinvent the smiley.
3. Charles Darwin studied expressions.
Two opinions:
1. Those emoticons are actually kinda cool. They're definitely better than what we have now.
2. I like that they're consistent. They actually look like the same character making different faces.
One question:
1. When will Pete Docter's next film get a title? I feel like I first heard that "Untitled" name three years ago, and I'm way more excited about that than Monsters U.
1. The emoticon is still relevant.
2. Facebook wants a Pixar employee to help reinvent the smiley.
3. Charles Darwin studied expressions.
Two opinions:
1. Those emoticons are actually kinda cool. They're definitely better than what we have now.
2. I like that they're consistent. They actually look like the same character making different faces.
One question:
1. When will Pete Docter's next film get a title? I feel like I first heard that "Untitled" name three years ago, and I'm way more excited about that than Monsters U.
Sunday, February 10, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: Never wait til the last second to render stuff. And never move it off your desktop while it's rendering.
What I want to learn in the future: How I'm going to pull off this trailer. I need good sounds, for sure.
Something that frustrated me: I wasn't able to put the effect I wanted on my video project. It's okay, but not as good as it would've been.
Something that made me happy: The drama club approved my play! The first act is written, and the second is on it's way. I've been working on this for months, and you have no idea how great it feels to accomplish this. As I get dates for when it occurs, I'll post them, in case anyone is interested in coming out and watching. I will, however, add a quick one sentence summary below my post of interest if anyone wants to read it.
Guys, committing tochildren watching Breaking Bad is a big step in any relationship. But it'll be okay. I promise.
It's here.
Still here? Cool, here's the one sentence summary I promised:
A time travel from 2054 crash lands in 1951 after his time machine breaks down, and he's subsequently trapped in an insane asylum.
It's a comedy, mostly.
What I want to learn in the future: How I'm going to pull off this trailer. I need good sounds, for sure.
Something that frustrated me: I wasn't able to put the effect I wanted on my video project. It's okay, but not as good as it would've been.
Something that made me happy: The drama club approved my play! The first act is written, and the second is on it's way. I've been working on this for months, and you have no idea how great it feels to accomplish this. As I get dates for when it occurs, I'll post them, in case anyone is interested in coming out and watching. I will, however, add a quick one sentence summary below my post of interest if anyone wants to read it.
Guys, committing to
It's here.
Still here? Cool, here's the one sentence summary I promised:
A time travel from 2054 crash lands in 1951 after his time machine breaks down, and he's subsequently trapped in an insane asylum.
It's a comedy, mostly.
Paperman
The hipster in me wants to shout FIRST!, as this was the video I used for my blogs last week.
Three things I did not know:
1. This art style was going to be used for Tangled, which makes them dumb for not using it.
2. It's a merge of both hand drawn animation and CG animation.
3. George, the main character, is inspired by how the filmmaker was in his 20s.
Two things:
1. I've seen this several times now and I think it's wonderful.
2. The style is unspeakable beautiful. The lighting alone should win Oscars.
One question:
1. Please, please make an awesome (read: not fairytale. I'm not interested) film out of this style. Please?
Three things I did not know:
1. This art style was going to be used for Tangled, which makes them dumb for not using it.
2. It's a merge of both hand drawn animation and CG animation.
3. George, the main character, is inspired by how the filmmaker was in his 20s.
Two things:
1. I've seen this several times now and I think it's wonderful.
2. The style is unspeakable beautiful. The lighting alone should win Oscars.
One question:
1. Please, please make an awesome (read: not fairytale. I'm not interested) film out of this style. Please?
Quentin Tarantino
Three things I didn't know:
1. Quentin Tarantino was in Jean-Luc Godard's King Lear?! That's incredible! (This is a joke.)
2. Quentin Tarantino steals. From every movie. Ever.
3. Tarantino's movies are deeply personal, with such events as break ups playing into his films.
Two opinions:
1. I enjoy Tarantino's films.
2. I like how he makes personal films. Putting something personal from your life makes them more meaningful.
One question:
1. What will his next film be? (Reportedly it's called Killer Crow, and is the final film in the Basterds-Django trilogy. It has to due with a band of African American soldiers who get screwed over by the US military during WWII and lose it. This may or may not happen.)
1. Quentin Tarantino was in Jean-Luc Godard's King Lear?! That's incredible! (This is a joke.)
2. Quentin Tarantino steals. From every movie. Ever.
3. Tarantino's movies are deeply personal, with such events as break ups playing into his films.
Two opinions:
1. I enjoy Tarantino's films.
2. I like how he makes personal films. Putting something personal from your life makes them more meaningful.
One question:
1. What will his next film be? (Reportedly it's called Killer Crow, and is the final film in the Basterds-Django trilogy. It has to due with a band of African American soldiers who get screwed over by the US military during WWII and lose it. This may or may not happen.)
Sunday, February 3, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: I...nothing, really. Not even in home school. This was a quiet week.
What I want to learn in the future: Meh. I don't know what's left to learn, ya know? I wish I had something else to put in this section.
Something that frustrated me: I've changed my idea for this class competition project approx. 500 times now.
Something that made me happy: So...tomorrow, my friend Ken and I (who you will see in the upcoming screening of my PSA) are meeting with our school's Drama Club to sell them the play we wrote together. I'm nervous but cautiously excited. If they like it, we get to direct.
So... Wreck-It Ralph had a short film shown before it called Paperman, which was released on YouTube this week. And damn, is it beautiful. Just check out that lighting.
What I want to learn in the future: Meh. I don't know what's left to learn, ya know? I wish I had something else to put in this section.
Something that frustrated me: I've changed my idea for this class competition project approx. 500 times now.
Something that made me happy: So...tomorrow, my friend Ken and I (who you will see in the upcoming screening of my PSA) are meeting with our school's Drama Club to sell them the play we wrote together. I'm nervous but cautiously excited. If they like it, we get to direct.
So... Wreck-It Ralph had a short film shown before it called Paperman, which was released on YouTube this week. And damn, is it beautiful. Just check out that lighting.
Disney Infinity
Three things I didn't know:
1. Again, I totally knew this existed, so... I didn't know they were targeting Minecraft.
2. The "games" are different genres of games; The Incredibles is a brawler, Monsters U is a stealth game, and so on.
3. You can't mix the universes together in their specific games, but you can in the "Disney Infinity" main world.
Two opinions:
1. After reading some of our classes responses to this...guys, you're really going to get that mad at this game? It's almost nothing like Minecraft (I'm still confused why it's compared to Minecraft in the headline. I get that you can add things to the world, but it definitely sounds more like LittleBigPlanet than Minecraft in that sense, which I suppose is also mentioned in the article) and while it's a bit of a copy of Skylanders, it's still different enough that it can exist on it's own. And guess what guys. Competition? It tends to be a good thing. Don't get so upset.
2. The idea of using this to introduce kids to genres of games they've never played it kinda cool. Sure, kids have played platformers (Mario) or maybe racing games (...MarioKart?) but have they ever played a stealth game? Probably not.
One question:
1. What will win? Skylanders or Disney Infinity?
1. Again, I totally knew this existed, so... I didn't know they were targeting Minecraft.
2. The "games" are different genres of games; The Incredibles is a brawler, Monsters U is a stealth game, and so on.
3. You can't mix the universes together in their specific games, but you can in the "Disney Infinity" main world.
Two opinions:
1. After reading some of our classes responses to this...guys, you're really going to get that mad at this game? It's almost nothing like Minecraft (I'm still confused why it's compared to Minecraft in the headline. I get that you can add things to the world, but it definitely sounds more like LittleBigPlanet than Minecraft in that sense, which I suppose is also mentioned in the article) and while it's a bit of a copy of Skylanders, it's still different enough that it can exist on it's own. And guess what guys. Competition? It tends to be a good thing. Don't get so upset.
2. The idea of using this to introduce kids to genres of games they've never played it kinda cool. Sure, kids have played platformers (Mario) or maybe racing games (...MarioKart?) but have they ever played a stealth game? Probably not.
One question:
1. What will win? Skylanders or Disney Infinity?
Escape From Tomorrow
Three things I did not know:
1. Well, I'd say I didn't know about this film...but I heard about it on a podcast before this week...so... I didn't know i was called Escape From Tomorrow.
2. I didn't know that the director was introduced at Sundance as a visionary.
3. I didn't know the plot of the film had to do with a man losing his mind (I figured it had to do with a guy's children getting lost in the park).
Two opinions:
1. I'm definitely intrigued. I want to see at least a trailer. The idea of a man thinking he's shooting himself with a fake rifle is darkly hilarious.
2. That ending is...seriously, seriously crazy. Wow.
One question:
1. I agree with Alex. When is this coming to on demand services?
1. Well, I'd say I didn't know about this film...but I heard about it on a podcast before this week...so... I didn't know i was called Escape From Tomorrow.
2. I didn't know that the director was introduced at Sundance as a visionary.
3. I didn't know the plot of the film had to do with a man losing his mind (I figured it had to do with a guy's children getting lost in the park).
Two opinions:
1. I'm definitely intrigued. I want to see at least a trailer. The idea of a man thinking he's shooting himself with a fake rifle is darkly hilarious.
2. That ending is...seriously, seriously crazy. Wow.
One question:
1. I agree with Alex. When is this coming to on demand services?
Friday, January 18, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: I suck at speaking in front of people. Especially when I can't say "um." My greatest downfall.
What I want to learn in the future: Nothing, I just want to keep doing projects.
Something that frustrated me: I had to be the first debate group. I was so stressed.
Something that made me happy: I not only won my debate, I got a 100 on it. Sweet.
Look, uh... I got nothing this week. Here's a video of some guy who hacked GTA4 doing crazy stuff.
What I want to learn in the future: Nothing, I just want to keep doing projects.
Something that frustrated me: I had to be the first debate group. I was so stressed.
Something that made me happy: I not only won my debate, I got a 100 on it. Sweet.
Look, uh... I got nothing this week. Here's a video of some guy who hacked GTA4 doing crazy stuff.
Maggie Simpson
Three things I didn't know:
1. Maggie's short was nominated for an Oscar.
2. The film was completed in about 10 weeks.
3. The Simpsons is in it's 24th season (I guess I kinda knew that, I just haven't been paying attention)
Two opinions:
1. The Simpsons can still be good, but man, seasons one through eight were probably the best out of them all.
2. I haven't watched The Simpsons in quite a while.
One question:
Will they ever stop The Simpsons?
The answer is no.
1. Maggie's short was nominated for an Oscar.
2. The film was completed in about 10 weeks.
3. The Simpsons is in it's 24th season (I guess I kinda knew that, I just haven't been paying attention)
Two opinions:
1. The Simpsons can still be good, but man, seasons one through eight were probably the best out of them all.
2. I haven't watched The Simpsons in quite a while.
One question:
Will they ever stop The Simpsons?
The answer is no.
Mics
Three things I didn't know:
1. A $40 mic placed close to the source is better than a $2000 shotgun mic placed across the room.
2. Omnidirectional handheld mics can pick up sound from both sides without having to move the mic.
3. Cheap wireless lavalier mics suck.
Two opinions:
1. Mics are pretty cool. I like shotgun mics the best.
2. Sound's a nice thing to have in movies, ya know?
Yeah, okay, I had nothing. Sorry.
One question:
1. Where can I get a $40 mic? Amazon?
1. A $40 mic placed close to the source is better than a $2000 shotgun mic placed across the room.
2. Omnidirectional handheld mics can pick up sound from both sides without having to move the mic.
3. Cheap wireless lavalier mics suck.
Two opinions:
1. Mics are pretty cool. I like shotgun mics the best.
2. Sound's a nice thing to have in movies, ya know?
Yeah, okay, I had nothing. Sorry.
One question:
1. Where can I get a $40 mic? Amazon?
Sunday, January 13, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: We learned some lighting techniques. It was cool.
What I want to learn in the future: How to sleep correctly. I've been so tired.
Something that frustrated me: Time Warner Cable can go die. Stupid cable box. This is why I'm making my family drop you!
Something that made me happy: Exercise. No really. I've been feeling great.
Hey, you know what's a great movie? That 1995 live action movie Toy Story.
What? It was animated, you say? Certainly not, my good friend, you are confused. That film was live action.
Look, I'll prove it. It's right here on YouTube, all 80 minutes!
What I want to learn in the future: How to sleep correctly. I've been so tired.
Something that frustrated me: Time Warner Cable can go die. Stupid cable box. This is why I'm making my family drop you!
Something that made me happy: Exercise. No really. I've been feeling great.
Hey, you know what's a great movie? That 1995 live action movie Toy Story.
What? It was animated, you say? Certainly not, my good friend, you are confused. That film was live action.
Look, I'll prove it. It's right here on YouTube, all 80 minutes!
D&D
Three things I didn't know:
1. D&D has made upwards of 1 billion dollars.
2. D&D has survived 40 years of being a niche cult favorite.
3. Fantasy movies like the Lord of the Rings can lead people into picking up addition fantasy stories/books/games.
Two opinions:
1. This article is a mess. It's like a summary of Dungeons and Dragons throughout history but for some reason they mention the Hobbit in the title? Are they saying there should be D&D movies? Because there were. Three, in fact, though two aired on SyFy. I'm just...not getting the connection. Whatever.
2. COMMUNITY MENTIOOOON! The Dungeons and Dragons episode is probably in my top five favorite episodes of that show. It's a episode that should definitely be watched and a great way to introduce someone to the weirdness that is Community. The complaint that the one (I don't know what they're talking about by the way. There was only one pre-established D&D player in that episode, Fat Neil) player was overweight is ridiculous, by the way. The fact that he's overweight lends to the storyline, which at its core is about the depression of said Fat Neil.
But I digress.
One question:
1. SERIOUSLY!? What was the point of this article? I just...ugh.
1. D&D has made upwards of 1 billion dollars.
2. D&D has survived 40 years of being a niche cult favorite.
3. Fantasy movies like the Lord of the Rings can lead people into picking up addition fantasy stories/books/games.
Two opinions:
1. This article is a mess. It's like a summary of Dungeons and Dragons throughout history but for some reason they mention the Hobbit in the title? Are they saying there should be D&D movies? Because there were. Three, in fact, though two aired on SyFy. I'm just...not getting the connection. Whatever.
2. COMMUNITY MENTIOOOON! The Dungeons and Dragons episode is probably in my top five favorite episodes of that show. It's a episode that should definitely be watched and a great way to introduce someone to the weirdness that is Community. The complaint that the one (I don't know what they're talking about by the way. There was only one pre-established D&D player in that episode, Fat Neil) player was overweight is ridiculous, by the way. The fact that he's overweight lends to the storyline, which at its core is about the depression of said Fat Neil.
But I digress.
One question:
1. SERIOUSLY!? What was the point of this article? I just...ugh.
.GIF
Three things I didn't know:
1. Earliest version of the animated .GIF was created in 1878.
2. .GIFs are a great way to capture little moments found in video.
3. .GIFs are a great way to show how you're feeling about something.
Two opinions:
1. There are hilarious .GIFs that I love to use.
2. That said, overusing .GIFs to be funny just shows me how unfunny you are.
One question:
1. Will .GIFs ever get old?
Sunday, January 6, 2013
Weekly Comments
What I learned this week: Not much, unfortunately. Just kinda rolling through school right now.
What I want to learn in the future: Lighting, because lighting is the worst thing ever.
Something that frustrated me: Three days felt like twelve. Sigh.
Something that made me happy: Well...not much, honestly. Sorry to say. It's been an off week.
So, I know the last video I posted was the RLM Titanic review, but here's a four minute behind the scenes look at how they did some of the effects and set making.
I didn't mean to do two RLM videos in a row, but I saw this this morning and thought it was good for this class.
Warning: NSFW for both language and some crude drawings they show from the review. Viewer discretion is advised.
What I want to learn in the future: Lighting, because lighting is the worst thing ever.
Something that frustrated me: Three days felt like twelve. Sigh.
Something that made me happy: Well...not much, honestly. Sorry to say. It's been an off week.
So, I know the last video I posted was the RLM Titanic review, but here's a four minute behind the scenes look at how they did some of the effects and set making.
I didn't mean to do two RLM videos in a row, but I saw this this morning and thought it was good for this class.
Warning: NSFW for both language and some crude drawings they show from the review. Viewer discretion is advised.
3D
Three things I didn't know:
Two Three opinions:
1. 3D sucks? Whaaaaaaaaat?! (Okay, I'm kidding. I knew this) That The Hobbit looks like a Viewmaster slide. I had one of those when I was a kid!
2. Life of Pi used a combination to split the distance between real life and fantasy.
3. Film, especially celluloid, has never looked better.
1. 3D can die, and Avatar sucked.
2. I was more immersed in Django Unchained than I was in any recent movie, and it was only shown in 2D. Why? Because they used limited CGI and real sets.
3. Stop trying to distract me with shiny objects and toys. I just want a movie.
One question:
3D's going to die again, right?...right?
Right?!
RIGHT?!
*sobs*
Writing Short Films
Three things I did not know:
1. Always keep your limits/budget in mind.
2. Always keep it visual (though I feel like this rule can be broken if it's done correctly)
3. ALWAYS stay away from cliches. I feel like this is especially important. Do something original.
Two opinions:
1. I think the biggest rule they left out of this is make something unexpected. Don't make something straightforward where you can guess the ending.
2. Story is more important than anything else.
One question:
1. Why are some films so boring? It seems like the biggest hits are always the most predictable films. Even during the climax of something like The Avengers, I knew that *cough*a certain character*cough* was returning in a sequel and wouldn't die. Oh well.
1. Always keep your limits/budget in mind.
2. Always keep it visual (though I feel like this rule can be broken if it's done correctly)
3. ALWAYS stay away from cliches. I feel like this is especially important. Do something original.
Two opinions:
1. I think the biggest rule they left out of this is make something unexpected. Don't make something straightforward where you can guess the ending.
2. Story is more important than anything else.
One question:
1. Why are some films so boring? It seems like the biggest hits are always the most predictable films. Even during the climax of something like The Avengers, I knew that *cough*a certain character*cough* was returning in a sequel and wouldn't die. Oh well.
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