Wednesday, 16 February 2011

1.3 IMAX visit and Despicable Me Review


IMAX Cinema visit

As a part of unit 1:7 of the diploma named scene I have paid a visit to the IMAX in the Southbank centre to watch the film Despicable Me. The IMAX has a screen that measures 20m x 26m which is the size of 5 double decker busses and plays film at the highest resolution of film in the world the IMAX truly gives the best cinema experience in the UK even possibly the world. The IMAX as a cinema is very stylish and professional with red carpets and lighted stairways. The service was very good as the staff were polite and welcoming. Charlie Robers who was the head of education at the IMAX also gave us general information about the IMAX itself. We were told that the IMAX was created and operated by the BFI and that the highest grossing film shown at the IMAX was Batman that grossed 2 million. She also predicted that the modern remaking of Tron is going to be a big hit in the Imax as the IMAX experience will be desired by many viewers especially those who are old enough to have seen the original Tron which was the most futuristic film of its day.

All IMAX screens at one point were flat however after an encounter with the San Deigo Hall of Science the fisheye projector was invented which allowed images and therefore film to be projected onto a curved screen which was suitable for the dome of the Science halls planetarium. This led to some other IMAX cinemas being built with the same style of curved screen and fish eye projection. Coupled with the latest 3D hi-definition technology the advantages of this technology are that the majority of your view is taken up by the image that you see on the screen; therefore creating the sense that you are in the image. This sensation is enhanced by massive 11,600 watt surround sound systems and even in some circumstances vibrating chairs which enhance the sensation even more. Over time this sensation has been coined the “IMAX experience.”

Many of us have seen a 3D film however it is not often that we actually think “what is the technology behind it?”

To create the illusion of being 3D; the IMAX 3D process uses two camera lenses to substitute the left and right eyes. The two lenses are separated by a distance of 64 mm (2.5 in), which is the average distance between a human's eyes. Images are recorded onto two separate lines of film one for the left eye and one for the right eye. By projecting them simultaneously, viewers see a 3D image on a 2D screen. The IMAX 3D camera is bulky, weighing over 113 kg (250 lb). This makes it difficult to film on-location documentaries.

The method which the IMAX uses to present 3D films involves polarisation. During projection, the left and right eye images are linearly polarized as they are projected onto the IMAX screen. By wearing special eyeglasses with lenses polarized in their respective directions to match the projection, each eye can only see the image intended for that eye since the lens's polarization will cancel out the other eye's image.

1.3 Despicable Me Review Help

Before actually doing a review of the film Despicable me I looked at many professional reviews and structures of them in order to get a general idea about how reviews are written and the sort of language that they use in the reviews. Some of the main websites that I looked at were;

  • http://www.radiotimes.com/servlet_film/com.icl.beeb.rtfilms.client.simpleSearchServlet?searchTypeSelect=5&frn=49953 - Here is a sample of the review that I read - This wonderfully inventive animated yarn tells the story of ruthless baddie Gru (voiced by Steve Carell), who finds his position as the world's greatest villain threatened by up-and-coming youngster Vector (Jason Segel). To re-establish himself as top dog, Gru and his boffin sidekick Dr Nefario (Russell Brand) hatch a plot to steal the moon.
  • http://www.express.co.uk/entertainment/view/205371/Despicable-Me-film-review-and-trailer - STEVE Carell voices a tubby, spindly-legged super-villain, Gru, who finds his inner cutie in Despicable Me, a very likeable 3D animation that combines originality and charm with a pleasing, spiky humour. Spurred on by his belittling mother (Julie Andrews), Gru strives to be the world’s biggest villain but is outmanoeuvred by nerdy rival, Vector (Jason Segal), who has trumped Gru for a major loan from the Bank of Evil (“formerly Lehman Bros”) and stolen a shrink ray weapon that can reduce an elephant to the size of a mouse.

  • http://movies.sky.com/despicable-me/review - From Bond to Batman, villains may not always win the day but they certainly conquer the audience. Despicable Me finally gives the bad guys the world domination they've been craving, in a witty, snappy and ludicrously slapstick family comedy that spends as much time poking fun at its audience as most family comedies do pandering to it. In a world refreshingly free of chisel-jawed, interfering superheroes, big-time uber-baddie Gru (Carell) is more content with spending his days taking candy from babies than reaffirming his reputation as the World's No. 1 Villain. But when an audacious pretender to the crown steals the Great Pyramid of Giza, it becomes apparent that Gru has maybe been spending a little too long lazing on his massively oversized throne, counting his bullions/minions.

After watching the film and I was meant to write my review I used these websites to help me. The thing that I got from them that I have used in my review is the bubble and very visual style of writing. This helped me realize the difference between a film analysis and a film review in that a film analysis is usually more boring than a review and is not there to advertise for the film however a review is meant to advertise for the film and make people want to see it. This is what I have tried to make my review feel like.

1.3 Despicable Me Review

MOVE OUT. Hiding behind pillars sneaking. Maximum stealth. Bound over the fence. Land on your feet. We were almost there. Underground tunnels and dark alleyways swept past. And then BANG it was there. Shrouded with poisonous creepers but none the less perfectly magnificent. There it was - the BFI IMAX- in all its glory. It seemed unreal almost like something out of a film; an IMAX 3D super HD film. Once inside we were royalty as satin red carpets stretched across the floor. The service was slightly poor however effective as the queue took ages to dissolve however that just boosted our impatience and also suspense. The ticket price was expensive however better value for money that any other cinema experience. Also the price of the usual cinema confectionary and other oddities was extortionately high and so the sting in my pocket as I took out money was great however it reminded me that it was absolutely necessary to “bring a credit card if you are going to climb a mountain”.

Despicable Me was truly amazing; 4 stars straight - a truly bright cluster of stars in the starry night sky of film ratings. It is a film that deserves respect. It included the voices for many famous actors and actresses such Gru (Steve Carell), Vector (Jason Segel) and Gru’s Mum (Julie Andrews). The film itself cost $69,000,000 (estimated) to make and it was released on the 15th of October 2010. The plot was studded with humor, danger and adventure as the main protagonist (who starts off as a villain) battles against another newer, smarter, younger villain to be the most famous villain of all however his heart is melted by three small orphan girls who change him into a new person.

The film starts with a BANG as the Pyramids at Giza have been stolen and then we see Gru swaggering along the high street just knowing that he is the TOP DOG the one that the whole world respects or fears. He is so saturated with evil that he would go to the extent of making balloon animals in order to console a weeping child only to pop it in his face and push him to the side of the street. However even though Gru acts as though he hasn’t got a problem in the world he does as a newer, smarter, younger villain is on the move and it is up to Gru to show him who is boss and so armed with a massive arsenal of freeze rays, lasers and a massive army of super dangerous minions he tries with all his power to be the best villain and steal the all new prototype shrink ray but he has competition and it is strong.

The super tense and tightly gripping plot develops gradually gathering pace as it progresses but nearer to the end rears its legs and BAM the end power slides to a funky but slightly expected start.

The characters are individuals but cohesively worked together to build a plot and story line of true stature. First up is Gru; the protagonist big guy with the Russian accent and twig legs. He begins as just the average super bad villain however his character develops into a labyrinth of complex emotions and feelings as he finds things locked away in him that he never even knew were there. The three orphan girls Agnes, Edith and Margo are the manipulative force in Gru’s life as at first he tries to use them however it back fires on him. With their persistent threats of annoying behaviour and reading of baby books it is almost like he gets knocked out and then wakes up a different person. The antagonist Vector is Gru’s constant competitor and also the goofy maths geek that makes us think “ how did he get anywhere in life?” However we find out that he has strong links to the villains bank and so he has a constant supply of money.

The 3D animation way excellent as all of the shapes were smooth and the lips were perfectly synced with the sound. The faces and bodies of each character accurately reflect their personality and actions. Usually in cartoons the heroes are taller and more muscular than the normal people however the villains are the majority of the time mutated or just weird looking which automatically makes us reject them. The villains in this film are no different as Gru and Vector have partially deformed bodies. Vector has a huge saggy belly and Gru’s body is bulky and wide with miniscule twig legs. Also the younger girls have big heads like in cartoons, which make them look more cute and so therefore more vulnerable. This adds to the irony of the film in that

Also the music is a driving force that boosts the moments of emotion and danger. From the all new Despicable me rap at the beginning to the moment of emotionally saturated critical moment of decision the music is always there to put the cherry on the cake. It seemed like the film was set in somewhere like Los Angeles in America as the roads are extremely wide and the houses big. Gru’s house stood out from the row of detached houses but it was twice as big as the other houses and instead of being brown and white like the other houses it was dark brown and black whereas Vectors domain was huge surrounded by a high white wall and masses of security equipment (see what I mean about money and his dad).

Overall the amazing plot and the truly developed characters with the moments of pure humour and action make the film a must see for all families especially those with young children. However these moments of humour were in a way prematurely exposed by the adverts and so when seen for the second time are not as effective and so eventuly may leave some of those who have seen one of the many adverts or trailers to leave the cinema with a slightly disappointed taste in their mouth. Saying this still the film was truly enjoyable with the little yellow minions that I will never forget from the various trailers including the humour that they secrete. Despicable Me is truly unforgettable.


Friday, 11 February 2011

1.2 Case Study-Creative and Media Personnel


1.2 Case Study-Creative and Media Personnel


In the creative and media sector there are 1000’s of different job roles, which are occupied by people all over the country. These jobs are broken down into four main categories, which are content, design, performing arts and heritage and also tourism. Some of these jobs include drumming professionally; operating a camera, writing newspaper articles etc. and a select number of people who are working in the creative and media sector have come in to talk to our class about the different aspects of their jobs. I have done some research onto each of them and their jobs and analysed some of the aspects of what they do for a living.

Paul Mardles – Journalist

Paul Mardles is a fully-fledged journalist who started off as a simple subeditor. On a regular basis he writes articles and columns for a few major and minor newspapers such as the observer and also a number of small magazines including a monthly young people’s magazine called The Cut. He told us when he came o give us a talk that journalism is a unstable boat of a career to go on with some periods of time when you don’t get paid and others where you do however once you become an established journalist your boat is very steady and the pay is reasonably high.


Marcel Pusey – Bassistry + Producer

Marcel is part of a band called Bassistry and also a producer who works at a computer with logic pro and also holding a bass in a band. The music that he produces and composes is often inspires by the bass that he plays. He has worked with a software designer in order to create his own computer software that is on sale at only £30 (which is very cheap) and with this software you can make your own simple riffs and beats. His band is a very minor but successful one and was formulated a jazz improvisation session where anyone can come along and play and so since then they have played together at many gigs and locations. Marcel has also developed a musical generator similar to fruity loops called the O-generator.



Akala and Chanelle Newman – Sony Hip Hop Shakespeare Company

Akala and his secretary/ right hand woman Chanelle Newman are a few key members of the creative and media and are also the lead members of the Sony Shakespeare Hip-Hop company. Akala is a rapper and Hip-Hop artist based in London who has produced many different successful songs such as Bit By Bit and Faceless People. Akala with the Hip-Hop Shakespeare Company help young people in and around Lewisham to unlock their talent for Hip-Hop, poetry and the works of Shakespeare. Chanelle is the one who organises many Gigs and events for Akala and is also an active member of the Hip-Hop Company.

Marcina Arnold – vocal coach


Marcina Arnold is a vocalist in a band but also somebody who is dedicated to enhancing the vocal talent of London’s young people. She comes into many schools across London in order to give young people vocal workshops and open their minds to what the world of music really is in order to show them that they don’t have to just be listening to music as they should also have the ability to produce their own. She sings in many different styles but mostly salsa.


Victoria Warrick –advertising

Victoria Warrick is an influential advertising specialist who produces advertising campaigns for many different business and organisations. The process of making an advertising campaign is lengthily but efficient. Basically you buy advertising space (which could cost more than the advert itself) and then you use the product and then brainstorm ideas. When you have chosen your idea it gets sent to another department where it gets brought to life before finally getting shown in the form of a very short advert.


Kevin Leo – Song Writer

Kevin Leo is a successful singer and is also the director and founder of Midas Productions. He is also a vocal coach whose abilities have been nurtured over 20 years. We were lucky enough to have him come in and do a song-writing workshop for us. He also goes into many different schools in the borough of Lewisham and provides song-writing workshops for teenagers in order to enkindle or develop their interest in music. He has written many songs himself and is a successful musician.

I have found from my research that there are masses of jobs available in the creative and media sector and that there are many aspects of these jobs that are similar such as the massive work ethic necessary to achieve the qualifications and then to do the actual job. Many of these jobs work on a freelance basis therefore the salary many be unstable resulting in the person having to work extremely hard to get a good pay. These people must have passion and motivation for the job that they do otherwise it is likely that they will not be successful. All jobs in the creative and media sector require passion and in most circumstances require a lot of qualifications however in many situations working in the creative and media sector can be fun.

Jobs in the Creative and Media Industry

Architect - http://ww2.prospects.ac.uk/p/types_of_job/architect_salary.jsp

Architects are the designers in the construction industry. Some of the tasks that they carry out include designing new buildings or extensions and even some times making necessary alterations to some already existing usually old buildings. One thing that you can be sure f on any building site from small ones to large scale ones is that an architect of some kind has designed the finished piece, which will be made physically by the construction workers. They always have a close relationship with the client as if any small changes or adaptations need to be made as well as needing to make sure that the building safe, functional and economical.

There are many architectural firms/ companies based in London however one of the major ones is called Arc 3 Architects & Surveyors in Central London. The standard entry route into the architecture profession entails at least seven years in training and higher education. This consists of:

  • an approved first degree in architecture, known as RIBA Part 1, which typically takes three or four years;
  • 12 months of supervised and recorded practical experience, referred to as stage one professional experience - this is commonly taken in architects’ practices, but may be in any sector of the building industry, including construction and design;
  • two years of further study for a diploma or a secondary degree in architecture, known as RIBA Part 2;. professional experience - this must be in an architect's office under the supervision of a qualified architect;
  • the RIBA Part 3 examination in professional practice and management, which students may take on completion of the above. Once this is completed you can register as an architect with the ARB and apply to become a chartered member of the RIBA.

Graphic designer - http://ww2.prospects.ac.uk/p/types_of_job/graphic_designer_entry_requirements.jsp


Graphic designers make the message of an advertising campaign clear with high visual impact pictures and only in some situations words. The job of the graphic designer is an extremely necessary one in today’s market as they design all of the websites, advertising, books, magazines, posters, computer games, product packaging, exhibitions and displays, corporate communications and corporate identities that the businesses and people of the world need to put their product or service e into the minds of the general public. Graphic designers are given a brief sometimes flexible, sometimes not by a client and then develop the creative ideas and concepts always adapting to the clients needs and wishes. Graphic designers do not work alone but rather work in a group of printers, copywriters, photographers, other designers, account executives, web developers and marketing specialists.

The qualifications that may increase your chances of becoming a graphic designer are a degree/HND in the following subjects:

  • graphic design, illustration, 3-D design, fine art, visual art,
  • photography, film/television, communication design

Apart from technical and drawing skills, candidates need to show evidence of the following:

  • accuracy, attention to detail and analytical skills, enthusiasm,
  • self-discipline, flexibility and adaptability, patience, excellent communication skills in order to interpret and negotiate briefs with clients, good presentation skills and the confidence to explain and sell ideas to clients and colleagues

One of the leading magazine publishers in the UK is IPC media who produce over 85 iconic media brands, with their print brands alone reaching to almost two thirds of UK women and 44% of UK men –almost 27 million UK adults – while their online brands collectively reach 20 million users every month.


Contemporary dancer - http://ww2.prospects.ac.uk/p/types_of_job/print/dancer.jsp


Dance has always been a part of culture and religion in the human race and even after thousands of years dance is still used in an evolved state to express oneself and the feelings of a group. Dancers use movement, gesture and body language to portray a character, situation or abstract concept to an audience, usually to the accompaniment of music.

This normally involves interpreting the work of a choreographer, although it may sometimes require improvisation. Dancers work in a variety of genres ranging from classical ballet and West End musicals to contemporary dance. A dancer's role may involve education or therapy, as well as performance.

Dancing is a competitive and physically demanding career, which often involves periods of unemployment and underemployment. Many dancers will need to combine part-time jobs in areas such as performing, administration and teaching.

There are three distinct career areas in dance with three different entry routes:

  • classical - most classically trained performers will have attended ballet classes from childhood. Formal training usually begins aged 11 at a ballet school, such as The Royal Ballet School (http://www.royal-ballet-school.org.uk) .
  • West End - the best route into musicals is through stage schools, some of which start at age 11, such as the Sylvia Young Theatre School (http://www.sylviayoungtheatreschool.co.uk) . These offer courses in musical theatre where singing and acting are also taught.
  • contemporary - there are a number of specialised colleges offering degrees in contemporary dance, such as The Place - London Contemporary Dance School (http://www.theplace.org.uk/lcds) and the Laban Centre for Movement and Dance (http://www.laban.org) . A number of universities offer contemporary dance as part of a dance degree.

Once qualified and with experience, it is possible to move from one type of dance to another. However, most performers will train in one style and stay working within it. One of the contemporary dance groups operating in and around the London area are The Contemporary Dance Theatre which was created in 1972 by Jefferson James. Their mission or what they believe in is:
“Moving bodies, moving souls: the essence of contemporary dance. Connecting the community with diverse and socially relevant dance and performance art.”

They accomplish this through the following activities

  • Presentation of contemporary dance and time arts that reflect the diversity of style and culture, which are inherent in the field.
  • Presentation of work that is serious in content, entertaining, and has a social message or context.
  • Production assistance for the creation and presentation of movement-based work and time arts projects.
  • Educational community outreach with an emphasis on integrating art into community life.

Session musician - http://www.ehow.com/about_6609476_job-description-session-musician.html



A session musician is a talented instrumentalist who works alongside established solo artists or bands for a short-term period in order to record and play music however because of the nature of the jobs usually there is no sat no steady pay or hours therefore in some situations many sessions musicians are forced into another job especially as the credit crunch and a lack of people wanting to buy the service. They usually work on a freelance basis unless they are lucky enough to have a manager therefore the job is studded with peaks of pressure and no work however if you are truly talented (a minority of session musicians are) then you may achieve fame in the same way as Jimmy and Luther Vandross.

Session musicians, first and foremost, must be able to play one or more instruments to a professional standard. They must be able to read music. They must be flexible and adaptable. They will be working alongside a range of artists and on a number of different musical projects, which means they have to be prepared to embrace different music types and genres. Session musicians have to be quick learners, and able to play different musical parts quickly. They have to be content without celebrity or fame, and willing to be overshadowed by the members of a band or a main artist. They have to be patient, especially since a recording session can be a long and tiresome process. If they plan to play live with an artist, they must be confident and ready to go out before an audience.

An example of a session musician company is Session Musicians which is based in the UK however it also operates around different areas of Europe where they provide a tailor made service to suit the needs of a client. They have provided a service for a number of truly prestigious members of society such as George Michael, Usher and the Sugerbabes.

A group of Session musicians which operate in the London area is called - The Loose Wind Philosophy

The Loose Wind Studio is based in Finsbury Park, North London, under the watchful eye of producer, composer, and instrumentalist Sam Sharp. Their philosophy is that of the complete producer, they do so much more than just the engineering, and provide management of everything needed to complete your track, as you can see below.

Live Musicians

They specialise in creating the right working environment for your live takes, with a fair balance of encouragement and constructive criticism to ensure the best performance. This is particularly true when working with vocals, as the vibe and technique of the singer can have such a huge effect on the impact of the track. Out network of session musicians are only a phone call away to add the extra layers you may need to get to where you want to be.


Journalist -http://ww2.prospects.ac.uk/p/types_of_job/publishing_and_journalism.jsp

Journalists are the people inform us about the events that are going on in the world through many different mediums such as music magazines, being a news reporter, or even writing articles for prestigious newspapers such as the Times or the guardian. As a journalist who writes articles for a newspaper much of the time you have to go out and find information for stories yourself.

This may be very hard especially in the first few years as good and interesting stories are few and far between however as you develop your skills it becomes easier to find good stories or even to find rubbish stories but then present them in a way that they seem interesting. All journalists now have editors and sub-editors who will check the articles written by the journalist for any mistakes or make any necessary improvements. Some of the general work activities include:

“Interviewing various people in a range of different circumstances, building reliable contacts with people who will be able to supply a constant flow of news and also attending press conferences.”

The entry requirements to become a journalist are varied as you may be a naturally gifted one however most people need a degree in it in order to be taken on by some sort of news firm. The attributes that are necessary to become a journalist are strong written and oral communication skills;

  • a keen interest in news, current affairs, business and people;
  • accurate spelling, grammar and punctuation;
  • good organisation skills and the ability to work under pressure to tight deadlines;
  • an ability to grasp complex issues quickly and explain them in simple, concise language;
  • resilience, determination, flexibility, persistence and motivation.

From my research into just a few of the jobs in the creative and media sector I can conclude that you need to have not just a lot of sometimes “hard to get” qualifications as well as to have natural attributed which are necessary if you want to be successful in whatever job that you have. All of these jobs are necessary to English society and help the British people to stay knowledgeable about the events that are happening all over he world at any moment in time but also to stay entertained. Without the creative and media sector the entertainment systems would stop altogether and England would stop running smoothly to the extent that the economy may even fail. The creative and media world is massive and there are opportunities for anyone who wants them and in the modern society these opportunities are endless.

1.2 Creative and media employment roles and requirements

1.2 Creative and media employment roles and requirements


There are many jobs and roles to be played in the creative and media sector. The creative and media sector is a massive industry in England’s economy and is broken down into 4 main sub-sections, which are content, design, performing arts and heritage and tourism. Then the sections in these areas are; advertising, architecture, art and antiques , computer and video games, crafts design, fashion design, film and video, music, performing arts, publishing, software television and radio


I have been set a brief on the 1st of October by Ms Dawn Dowdie to research jobs in the creative and media sector however there was one in particular that interested me. This is games designing. The Entry requirements for the university of Westminster are-


1-A Levels CCC/AB ,2-BTEC National Diploma/Certificate MMM/DD and 3-Advanced Diploma Grade C in IT or Engineering and relevant ASL at Grade C and if you do not have the required qualifications you should consider our Foundation Course. The website that has the details for his course is: http://www.westminster.ac.uk/schools/computing/subjects/computer-games-development




Producer

Producers are highly self-motivated individuals, who have the final responsibility for all aspects of a film's production. He or she is frequently the first person to become involved in a project; they participate directly in all the main producing phases; and see the project through production, to post-production, marketing and distribution. The Producer's is role to turn story ideas into profitable cinematic entertainment, and to persuade others to share in his or her commercial and creative vision. Producers usually report to the production company, or to the Executive Producers appointed to supervise the production on behalf of the financiers and Distributors.

Responsibilities

Producers have overall control on every aspect of a film's production, bringing together the Screenwriters, Director, cast, finances and production team. Their primary responsibility is to foster an environment in which the creative talents of the cast and crew can flourish - Producers are therefore ultimately accountable for the success of the finished film. Producers many responsibilities span all four phases of production:

· Development - Producers are often responsible for coming up with the underlying premise of a production, or for selecting the screenplay. Producers secure the necessary rights, select the screenwriter and story editing team, raise the development financing, and supervise the development process.
· Pre-production - Producers typically bring together the key members of the creative team, including the Director, Cinematographer and principal cast..
Post-production and marketing - Producers are expected to liaise personally with post-production personnel, including the Editor, Composer, and Visual Effects staff. They then consult with all creative and financial personnel on the production of the answer (or final) print, and they are usually involved with the financial and distribution entities in planning the marketing and distribution of the finished film.



University Courses


Ravensbourne College of Design and Technology - CONTENT DEVELOPMENT AND PRODUCTION BA (Hons)


Two Year Fast Track Degree Course -The BA (Hons) Content Development and Production is a practical, vocational production course that focuses on generating and developing ideas into professional and creative content for traditional broadcast programmes and multiplatform content.The course is a two year fast track degree course that has been running successfully for over 10 years and with a solid record in gaining meaningful employment for its graduates. The course focuses on developing production skills in programmen making for television and other platforms – for the web and IPTV, interactive TV and mobile.



Entry Requirements


5 GCSEs (A-C) or equivalent (preferably including English, Media/Technology), and at least one of the following or equivalent UK, 2 A Levels (A-C); 4 AS Levels (A-C); 2 vocational A Levels (A-C); Level 3 Foundation Diploma or National Diploma; Advanced Diploma (A-C) or International Baccalaureate (24 points or above). Also, an interview and a portfolio, showreel or other indicator of creative or technical practice where appropriate



Camera Operator


Camera Operators usually begin work at the end of pre–production and, if the budget allows, attend the technical recces with other Heads of Department.Camera Operators ensure that the camera and associated equipment are prepared for the required set–ups, always keeping alert for any last–minute changes. They must be able to multi–task, and to watch, listen and think on their feet while carrying out complex technical tasks. They liaise closely with the Director, fine–tuning the exact details of each shot, which often involves suggesting creative improvements or alternatives. They supervise the logistics of moving the camera, and oversee the Camera maintenance work carried out by the Focus Puller and the 2nd AC. Camera Operators work closely with performers, guiding them on what can and cannot be seen by the camera. As it is now common for DoPs to also operate the camera on smaller films, many Camera Operators specialise in the operation of other precision equipment, such as Remote Heads or Steadicam, and most also work on commercials, promos and television drama. On bigger budget films, the role of the Camera Operator remains a crucial link between the creative ambitions of the Director, and other major departments, including Art, Hair and Make–Up and Costume.


University Courses


Brunel University - BA Film and Television


Entry requirements; 3 A levels BCC 240 points IB 24 points - The BA (Hons) in Film & Television Production is a practical production-based course which allows students to focus on developing the skills demanded of planning, managing, shooting and editing films of various genres and for different audiences. The theory that is embedded within the course is delivered within the context of production.



Broadcast Journalist.


Broadcast Journalism is the collection, verification and analysis of information about events which affect people, and the broadcast and publication of that information in a fair, accurate, impartial and balanced way to fulfil the public's right to know in a democratic society. This involves a variety of media including television, radio, the Internet and wireless devices. Broadcast Journalists working in television work in a variety of genres including news, current affairs, or documentaries. They may be employed by broadcasting companies, or work on a freelance basis.


Broadcast Journalists may be studio or office-based, or work in regional, national or international broadcasters' offices. They may also work from home, utilising broadband and other technology to interface with broadcasters and other employers. When working on news items, they must be prepared to travel, sometimes long distances, at any hour of the day or night, to gather the relevant information. They are responsible for generating ideas, and for assessing the value and accuracy of ideas and information from other sources, researching background data, and presenting items for consideration by Editors, Commissioners, or other decision


University Courses


University of Leeds- BA Broadcast Journalism


Entry requirements: 3 Alevels BBB. IB: 32 points overall. A hands-on course for prospective journalists that features intensive practical broadcast training alongside academic scrutiny of the media business. You will learn how to research, report and produce news in the fast-changing multimedia age, developing stories for Radio,Television and Online output. Documentary production skills are taught, and you can choose to specialise in sports or science journalism during one final year module.


Transmission Engineer


Transmission Engineers (sometimes known as Operations Managers) supervise the transmission of all genres of television programmes, working in the Master Control Room (MCR). They are responsible for the overall, day-to-day management of broadcasters' transmission facilities. This is a supervisory role, overseeing all incoming feeds from Outside Broadcasts and other sources, and all outgoing transmissions. They are usually employees of broadcasting companies. Transmission Engineers work in MCRs, managing all staff in transmission areas, scheduling shifts and work patterns, and recruiting and selecting freelance personnel when required. They are responsible for effective communication between line management and transmission personnel. They liaise with other departments about scheduling workflow, and to negotiate the use of facilities and equipment. They ensure that safety plans and risk assessments have been prepared, and are adhered to, in the transmission areas. Transmission Engineers also work with other MCR personnel to train new operational staff.

University Courses

Queen Mary University of London - BEng Electronic Engineering

Entry Requirements; A levels 260-280 for BEng programmes. IB 34 points BTEC DMM


Make Up Artist


Make-up and Hair Designers usually work on feature films and high budget television dramas and must be proficient in both make-up and hair techniques. Make-up and Hair are key elements in the overall design of films or television productions, creating a look for the characters in relation to social class, and time periods, and any other elements required to create the desired illusion. Make-up and Hair Designers are responsible for the overall design, application, continuity and care of make-up and hair throughout the pre-production an Increased multi-skilling in the UK film and television industries has meant that personnel are required to be proficient in both make-up and hair, and the departments are often merged. Make Up and Hair Designers' responsibilities vary depending on production needs.

University Courses-The Arts Institute at Bournemouth



Make Up for Media and Performance - 2 year full-time Foundation Degree- Entry requirements 1 A Level

Wednesday, 9 February 2011

1.1Creative and Media Activity in the Southbank

1.1 Creative and Media Activity in the Southbank

Central London as well as being the business centre of England is a major hub full of modern art however it can be said that the area, Southbank and in particular the Southbank centre is the epicentre that is bustling with life, business and modern art not only on the street but also in places like the Tate Modern and The Hayward Gallery. The centre attracts tourists from all over the world including Britain, to see the truth about the creative industry of Britain and also the masses of street performers and also to take a ride in the London Eye itself to witness London from above.

Tate Modern- http://www.tate.org.uk/modern/eventseducation/musicperform/22058.htm

The Tate is an English national organisation that is owned by the public. One of the branches in the Tate family is the Tate Modern and some of the sister branches are The Tate Britain, Tate St. Ives and Tate Liverpool. The Tate Modern itself is an organisation that is dedicated to sharing performing arts with the public. The Tate's objective is to increase public knowledge, understanding and enjoyment of British culture and does this by presenting modern and contemporary art, music concerts, plays, art displays and other events happen at the Tate Modern every day.

Events

Trisha Brown Dance Company

One of the Performances being shown at the moment is the Tate Modern Live: Trisha Brown Dance Company. It is a dance group that uses apparently simple movements, which come together and give a complex feel.

The dates of the performances are;

Saturday 16 October - Tuesday 19 October


Alejandro Cesarco. Present Memory

Through different methods of concept and a range of media, including many different media types, Uruguayan artist Alejandro Cesarco explores the various meanings of words and images in relation to context, experience and subjectivity.

Tate Modern 10 July – 31 October 2010

Cold Mouth Prayer

Cold Mouth Prayer is a panoramic new painting, specially made for Tate Modern’s Restaurant. It has been influenced by Renaissance landscape painting and nineteenth-century French scenic wallpaper, the artist explores his interest in the natural world but also the concepts and imagery surrounding heavy metal rock.

18 August 2007 – 30 June 2011

The Hayward Gallery-


http://www.southbankcentre.co.uk/find/hayward-gallery-and-visual-arts

The Southbank centre is a complex of artistic themed venues situated in the very heart of London itself neighbouring the London Eye and Big Ben.

It presents a wide-ranging programme including classical & world music, rock & pop, jazz, dance, literature and the visual arts and attracts a massive audience from many places all over the world.

The Southbank Centre complex is consisted of the Royal Festival Hall , the Hayward Gallery,Queen Elizabeth Hall and the Saison Poetry Library. In the Royal festival hall there are on sometimes musical concerts and performances during lunchtime or in the evenings at the weekend and I myself have played in there and also the Queen Elizabeth hall on multiple occasions. I have played in these venues with my band, which is called KINETIKA BLOCO. We are a carnival band that brings joy wherever it goes as we travel all over England but mostly to places in London where we play in Gigs and separate venues in order to add some “atmosphere” to smaller events such as student parties.

Events

One of the events on now at the Hayward gallery is Move: Choreographing You, and its aim is to get general people from the public to get involved in performance as it builds confidence and the ability to express oneself as well as the use of mind and body to perform.

British Art Show 7: In the Days of the Comet

Through the use of paintings, sculpture, installations, video, film, performance and many other methods, British Art Show 7 explores the ways in which contemporary British art conjures histories - distant or near, longingly imagined or all too real - to illuminate our present moment.

The British Art Show is widely recognised as the most ambitious and influential exhibition of contemporary British art, organised by the Hayward Gallery and has taken place every five years since 1979. Some of the artists involved are Varda Caivano, Spartacus Chetwynd and Steven Claydon.

Performing Arts (theatre)

The Globe Theatre - http://www.shakespeares-globe.org/


Founded by the pioneering American actor and director Sam Wanamaker, Shakespeare's Globe is a unique international organisation dedicated to the exploration of Shakespeare's work and the playhouse for which he wrote, through the connected means of performance and education.
Together, the Globe Theatre Company, Shakespeare's Globe Exhibition and Globe Education seek to further the experience and international understanding of Shakespeare in performance.

The IMAX - http://www.imax.com/

The IMAX is a special “brand” of cinema situated in places all over the world. However the BFI IMAX situated in the Southbank at 1 Charlie Chaplin walk and instead of having many normal size screens it has one huge screen that measures 26m x 20m; that is the size of five double decker busses. However it is not only famous for its massive screen but also the fact that its screen plays film at the highest resolution of any screen in the world coupled with an astonishing 11,600 watt surround sound speaker system the IMAX experience as it has been made is surely one that all fanatical film fans should know. On my visit to the London IMAX I was amazed. Everything about it was an adventure from the dramatic entrance underground to the massive projection in crisp, high quality IMAX HD. The film that I have seen in the IMAX is Despicable Me and it was just as outstanding as the IMAX itself. Our guide and person who gave us back gound information on the many successes of the BFI IMAX was called Miss Charlie Roberts who is the School and Group Bookings manager for the BFI IMAX.

Films/ Events

One of the new films being shown, as an IMAX experience is one called Legend of the Guardians. The story is one about a owl names Soren who is kidnapped as an owlet and starts being brainwashed by the antagonist evil owls of St. Aggies just like a multitude of other owlets however he and some of his close friend manage to escape to the island of Ga’hool; the home of the wise Owls where he trains and eventually helps in the battle against the evil owls.

Despicable me

Despicable me is the story of a villain who is planning the biggest heist ever; armed with an arsenal of shrink rays, freeze rays, and battle-ready vehicles for land and air; he is going to steal the moon however his life is dramatically changed by three little orphan girls Margo, Edith and Agnes who see him as a potential father.

BFI -http://www.bfi.org.uk/about/whoweare/history.html

The British Film Institute is a registered charity founded by the Royal Charter in 1933. It promotes “understanding and appreciation of film and television heritage and culture.” It was established in 1933 and one of its primary jobs is to look after and care for one of the world’s richest and most significant collection of film and television as the total number of titles that it protects is almost 1 million.

As well as protecting titles it also owns the BFI IMAX in the Southbank and therefore screens over 1,000 films a year and also runs the annual London Film Festival.

In 2009 over 1.3 million people visited the BFI in Southbank, over 130,000 people visited the BFI London Film Festival and more than 13 million people visit online and use the archives and library resources.

Each year, a great amount of the funding received by private sources. In order for the Institute to run properly it depends on the generous support of individuals, trusts, foundations and corporations in order for them to continue to reach the widest audience, promote the best in cultural film and preserve the world's largest film and television archive.

Events

One of the most important events of the next few months is the 54th anniversary of the BFI London Film Festival. Celebrations will run from the 13th – 28th of October. Some of the films being shown at this time are Chongquing Blues and The Chalk Garden.

Chongquing Blues –

http://www.bfi.org.uk/lff/node/1025

The film Chongquing Blues tells the tale of a Chinease father trying to find out the truth and reasons about why his only son was shot by the police shot in a hostage siege however there are some he faces many major obstacles in that the police and his ex-wife refuse to talk to him and his sons friends are wary and unhelpful. He tries to find the truth by searching through the Borgesian labyrinth however his search is fruitless therefore he is forced to use other methods in order to find the answers that he needs.

The Chalk Garden - http://www.bfi.org.uk/whatson/bfi_southbank/film_programme/october_seasons/deborah_kerr_part_two/the_chalk_garden

The Chalk garden is a black and white film made many years ago starring Deborah Kerr whose role is to be a governess for a special child. This child is different from the other children that Mrs Kerr in that she needs to be tamed for she has no respect for anybody.

Music- Royal Festival Hall - http://www.bfi.org.uk/about/supportus/

The Royal Festival Hall stands at the heart of Southbank Centre complex. Opened in 1951 as part of the Festival of Britain, the Hall is one of the world’s leading performance venues. As well as the massive auditorium, the building consists of The Clore Ballroom, Southbank Centre Shop, several places to eat and drink, and the Saison Poetry Library. The Royal Festival Hall is open daily from 10am-11pm. Entry into the Southbank Centre and to all of it’s buildings is free, where people can enter the Foyer spaces and enjoy the atmosphere with or without a ticket. Also as a promotional enticement for people free WiFi is available on Level 2 of the Royal Festival Hall. Also outside of the front of the hall from time to time there is a market selling various dellicassens from different cultures such as cheese meats and also bread, eggs and live plus many other things. This is one of the ways in which the Southbank truly brings together the people of London.