James Dewell Film Studies

Meshes Of The Afternoon (1943) Influenced by the films aesthetic; the film uses deep, opposing lighting to create shadows, which hide the protagonists identity. The use of camera angles and close ups also interests me, giving the film surrealist qualities. Marie Menken - Lights  (1966) Influential for an experimental opening scene; luminous, flourescent colours. Static, ambient noise in the background. Switches focus between lights. Film changes speed; infers changes in perspective. Could potentially be used to suggest a drug scene, hallucinogenic visuals. Len Lye - Rainbow Dance (1936), Kaleidoscope (1935) Influentual through the use of dramatic colour changes and contrasts between silhouette colouring and background colouring. Creates an energetic movement through the frame, with dancing shapes and movements of bold, contrasting colours. Andy Warhol - Screen Tests (1964-66) Warhol films close up shots of his subjects, who complete minor movements such as turning t...

I know not yet whether to complete a script or short film; i possess ideas for both formats, however have a fond image for what a short film may feature. I intend, if i choose to complete a film, to create a short, artistic film featuring popular music as a basis. The film is to be set around 1966, the music set to be period correct. I envision an opening scene of a girl, the protagonist perhaps, applying makeup in a mirror; the shot would frame over her shoulder, and shoot her reflection in an intimate, sensual lighting. Playing behind her, as diegetic music from a record player, a love song, perhaps The Beatles or a girl group from the period. The scene intends to introduce the character through intimate, extreme close-up shots, revealing her appearance and movements as the music encourages her. Script ideas include a narrative of a famous story or character, adapted by myself to form a narrative script. The influence of this came from the 2019 production 'The King', a pe...