Technology

Using a Camera
My film "Someday" was entirely stop motion, So I did not use a video camera. Instead, I used my Canon EOS 400D, a SLR(Single Lens Reflex) Camera. I took (and used) a total of 541 photos to create the 3minutes and 15seconds of film I ended up with. As I am very familiar with my camera, I found it easy to think about so many things in order to take my images. I took all of the photos on the "Manual" Setting on my camera. I set the Shutter speed in reaction to light, for example; When shooting in my bedroom the light was minimal as I needed to keep the curtains closed. I did not want the light of my room on either, as I knew that would change the colour entirely. So, I had to change the Shutter speed to make it slower, It was taking photos at about 1/8th of a second (on average), slow compared to the 1/250th of a second in the case of taking photos outside. If I had the exposure wrong, it would have changed the images entirely. If I had the speeds set at 1/250th of a second for the inside images I would have ended up with black squares as my images, and if I had the outside images set at 1/8th of a second i would have had a series of white squares. I also had to check the white balance and change it too, depending on our location. White balance reacts according to the type of light that is in the photo you are taking. So, inside, I used the "Shade" setting. Although the images were inside there was a fair bit of light coming through the curtains. Whilst being outside I set the white balance to "Cloudy" and this allowed the camera to add warmth to the otherwise rather white day. It took some time to check these small things, But they are definitely important to making my film look the way I wanted to.
Composing Shots
 I had thought about the angles I wanted before I had even organised the day of my shoot. I wanted the high angle shot of my staircase because I knew that it would look quite beautiful and interesting. Mostly though, I wanted it to look like someone was following the character so it was important the angles and shots I composed were quite simple. Whilst she was walking the shots are all very simple long shots, and I think this works well. It shows the setting and entirity of the character.
Editing Images
Before I put my images in to movie maker I needed to put them through Photoshop, to make sure they were of a high quality. Some images I took were not entirely perfect in the way of light, so I used Photoshop to edit 100 of my images. By changing the "Curves" layer it improved the lighting of the images completely, making them lighter and crisper. Because I did the filming in the afternoon yet it was set in the morning Photoshop also allowed me to make small changes I could not have achieved by only using the camera. The curves layer Makes sure your photo has both strong blacks, and strong whites in your image. This is an art technique, as it makes your image look very crisp and beautiful. After changing the "Curves" layer you must Flatten your image, and save the edited image as a JPEG File. This makes sure it is a photo that can be easily used in Windows Movie Maker.
Importing Images and Video Files, Creating the final movie
 Because the images I took are rather large files, about 5MB each, it was rather time consuming moving 541 of these in at once! To avoid the computer freezing, and ultimately losing all of my work I chose to import the images 12 at a time, put them on the time line, size them down to the length I needed, delete them and get the next 12(Image 1). This technique was hugely time consuming and repetitive but became more simple over time. I had not ever used Windows Movie Maker ever before (nor had I used anything similar either) so I slowly taught myself what I needed to do over time. Once I had created about 30seconds of film I saved the file as a movie, and imported it to an entirely different Movie Maker project(Image 2), which eventually became my final film. Once all my pictures and credits were in the final Movie Maker Project I imported the Music file, added it to the time line and cut it down(Image 3).
After saving the file as one Video, I had completed my film.

(Image 1)

 

 

 

(Image 2)

(Image 3)

Reflection/Review

My first idea was a very serious storyline, about an alcoholic who was to wake up in a gutter somewhere, dirty and unhealthy looking. He was then going to walk up the road almost hobble. Perhaps going home, perhaps going to numb himself once again. I wanted it to be very moving, both sad and dark. But when I began filming for this idea it did not work well at all. The lighting was too bright, the setting did not work completely and I didn't know where else would, and I realised that my idea did not have enough depth to be long enough. After looking over my footage on the computer I also realised the music I had previously chosen didn't fit overly well either, and I didn't even know where to begin looking for music that would work well. So, after much thought, freaking out and brainstorming I chose to start completely over.
I am hugely pleased I made this decision. When I had the idea of doing stop motion, it seemed both daunting but I loved it too. I enjoy photography, and in my mind this seemed like an extension of that. After Annamarie agreed to be my one and only character, I knew I could do it. As I chose to look further into the genre of Teen Indie Film I wanted it to look rather choppy and the walking to not make sense 100% of the time, I wanted it to be relaxed and I think this works well. As there is absolutely no dialogue in my film it was important to me what music I chose. I went through many options, staring with soft, completely happy chirpy tunes. But as I began thinking more into the effect I wished to create I realised I wanted to add more depth to my protagonist. My opening is primarily character based and the music was one of the only opportunities I had to give the effect of 'perhaps things aren't what they seem'. I chose the song Suicide Policeman by the band Yuck because although the song sounds acoustic and soft in both Tune and Vocal style the lyrics, if payed attention to, tell a sad story about someone who is on the edge of suicide. "Brother if you're feeling low/ Tell me one thing I should know of your situation/ I could stand out in the hall/ I could be your suicide policeman.". I think this song is perfect for my film opening, as viewers may not catch on to this first watch. It also shows that perhaps this girl has someone looking out for her, someone is her "Suicide Policeman" and, perhaps, that is why she smiles. I also liked the outcome of the stopmotion. Once I edited it all together it did  show movement well. It was just as disjointed as I had imagined, and gave interest to what could have been seen as a mundane storyline.
I think I could have redone some of the shots. Some of the shots in my film are slightly fuzzy or a little bit off, although I like the choppy look in some cases it began to look messy, but I did not have a chance to re-do these things. In some cases too, the lighting changes. It becomes brighter at one stage in my film and it must have been because my camera turned off it would have reset the Shutter Speed, letting more light in, and so making the images for the rest of the film look like a different day. But when this happened I did not notice how big the difference actually was, So I simply carried on taking my photos. This bugs me a little, but once again I was unfortunately unable to change this. During the editing stages I also experienced some problems. As my computer would not let me download Premiere Pro, I chose to create my film on Windows Movie Maker (this was also a result of lack of time, as I chose to completely re-do my film I had to use my time as well as I could manage). This lead to some restrictions in my editing process but I couldn't easily work my way around these issues either, I think I did well with what I had available to me. All of these changes I believe would have made my film look a lot more professional, I believe there are some moments where the quality is low in my film, and I wish I had done this idea first so I would have had more time in all areas!
After showing my film opening to a few people they have told me that they like it, that the music works very well, and the stop-motion looks good too. I am also pleased with my opening, It certainly went better then I had originally thought, I really enjoyed making it and like the depth behind it too.

Pre-Production:

I have decided to completely change my idea. After trying out some things, I have realised it will not work and feel it the best decision to start completely over again. So here is my new and improved idea;

Concept:
I would like to do an opening of an indie Teen Movie of some kind, using stop motion techniques. I want it to seem quite relaxed and have obvious aspects of photography. I will take many photos of someone getting ready in the morning, and heading for the bus (as this character would every morning) and then put the photos together to show movement, I will intentionally make it look rather disjointed. The character appears happy, but seems to hold some secrets and this will be revealed through the use of music.

Research done:
Have organised my actress, Annamarie Moot. She will wear her own pajamas and bring two dresses to put on as well.
Have begun to think about music, but I think this is subject to change. I think I will choose my music whilst editing, so it fits well.
Much of the filming will be set in my own bedroom and house, but it will continue on and end up finishing at the bust stop around the corner from my home; the whole journey will be recorded.

Treatment:
It's early. For the weekend anyway. "Why am I awake at 10?" she thinks to herself as she reluctantly gets out of bed. She opens the curtains, and is content with the outcome of the weather, She doesn't seem entirely happy but as usual, works hard to protect her true feelings. Her lips curl at the ends.
She looks over a few dresses, and tries on a few things before being completely happy with her outfit. She checks her hair and outfit in the mirror for one last time, put her shoes on and heads for the door. She begins to walk faster as she walks up the hall and down the stairs. She daydreams as she walks, taking her time to notice things around her as she always does. The streets are nice, and no people are around. She enjoys the walk.
Finally, she sits at the bus stop and watches for her bus to come around the corner.

Style:
Very relaxed, Choppy stop motion. Disjointed movements, clear it is made of different photos. Close up at beginning (when she is sleeping) and close up as last shot (when she is at the bus stop).

Crew/Talent List:
Annamarie Moot - Main character (only character)
Me - Everything else; Filming, directing etc.

Production Schedule:
I want to begin filming (Taking photos) as soon as I can and believe this will be Thursday/Friday of this coming week (1st/2nd Sept).
Personnel: Annamarie and myself.
Equipment and Props Required: My camera, and that brilliant Continuous Shutter Speed it has! In the case of Props, I will use my own things, from my room. (My bed, Make up, and Annamarie's clothing which she will bring.)
Location:  My own house and bedroom. Because this opening relies mostly on movement it will travel to the bus stop very close to my house. So it will begin in my bedroom, move through my house, and to the street. I won't be needing any permissions for these places.
Time Details: Hopefully, when the weather is sunny. I don't mind filming this in the afternoon, because I want it to appear like a bright warm summers morning. So the time doesn't actually matter to much as it will be heavily implied throughout by the use of shots of clocks etc.
Contingency Plan: Breathe! Keep trying until it works. I can't start over again!
  
Art Department:

• Bed - In my room
• Blankets - In my room
• Alarm Clock - In my room
• Clothes for various outfits (3 outfits incl pjamas)-Annamarie
• Hairbrush/Make up things - Mine
• Handbag - Annamarie
• Clock - Mine
• Glass of water - Mine 

Locations, Permissions:
My own home; Bedroom, Hall, Stairs, Through the lounge and out the door. Also the driveway
The Streets surrounding; From Dunster Street, And around the corner down Whitby Street to the bus stop.

As all of my filming locations are in my own home, and on the public streets I do not need any permissions.

Exam Reflection

I think the exam went pretty well. I used up all the time I had and ended up only having about 5 minutes to look back over my work.
When studying, I focused more on the genre essay. I memorised movie quotes and quotes from directors but I think I need to do a little bit more research to find even more relevant ones (regarding the use of the knife). Admittedly, I could have spent much more time studying and I shall do this for the big final ones! I looked over the notes for representations and also watched the two relevant advertisements online, but again, I think I could have done more.
In the exams, I took about 1hour 30minutes for both, which I was happy with as it was even.

I think next time I shall study more and it will be okay!

Concept/ Treatment Change

I want to stay the same with the storyline, but I think that it would have more of an impact of it opened with him waking outside. This means some change in my Treatment too!

A man lays still in the cold, wet gutter. His hand reaches for a wine bottle. He begins to stir, but does not wake entirely. He rolls over, clearly unhappy and hungover he tries to get back to sleep but disturbed by the surrounding mess, he gives up and decides to slowly attempt at a new day.
He slowly leaves his messy house, and goes for a walk down the road in an attempt to get better, both emotionally and physically. He reaches into his otherwise empty wallet and gets out a photo of someone, sighing showing his regret for his previous actions. He slumps, continuing to walk almost dragging his body up the street, he reaches out a cigarette, but finally decides to give up. He begins to head home.

Pre-Production Tasks

Task 4: Crew and Talent
I plan to do all the crew stuff on my own, I will be directing and filming at the same time. My main character will be my brother, so because he lives with me I don't really need any contact numbers!

Task 5: Production Schedule
I want to do the filming all in one day at some point in the holidays. I am thinking that it will be one day in the second week. Because me and my brother a both pretty relaxed I'm not going to set a date, but I know we will definitely find a day we are both free. So, on what ever day this is:
Personnel: Myself and my brother Lachlan.
Equipment Required: The video camera I borrowed from my father, a tripod. I also may need to create some kind of dolly for my panning shots. As it is ground level I may just use a skateboard and roll it across slowly. Ooh plans!
Props Required: I need a bottle, I'm thinking an empty wine bottle. I also need a wallet and a photo of a girl. I have all these things already so nothing needs to be found. And also because my brother is naughty, he smokes and I will need him to do this in the scene.
Location: I want my location to look like it could be any suburban area, and this furthers the loss of placement for both the character and the viewer. I want to do it on my street, but this may change if I find a different unspecific place.
Time Details:  I would like it to look Dawn/Dusk so I will film at about 5pm... I think.
Contingency Plan: My contingency plan is simple. If anything goes wrong (such as the weather is too sunny or rainy, or it is too dark or bright) I will simply move the day over. This is really my only option as I am filming outside I have to rely on the weather.

Task 6: Art Department
(See Production Schedule)

Task 7: Locations, Permissions
I am filming in front of my house so I don't believe I need any permission etc.

Treatment

Surrounded by what seems like a never ending series of bottles, rubbish and cigarette buts a, man lays. He begins to stir, but does not wake entirely. He rolls over, clearly unhappy and hungover he tries to get back to sleep but disturbed by the surrounding mess, he gives up and decides to slowly attempt at a new day.
He slowly leaves his messy house, and goes for a walk down the road in an attempt to get better, both emotionally and physically. He reaches into his otherwise empty wallet and gets out a photo of someone, sighing showing his regret for his previous actions. He slumps, continuing to walk almost dragging his body up the street, he reaches out a cigarette, but finally decides to give up. He begins to head home.

Concept for film opening:

I would like to do quite an arty film opening. I want to show minimal people, and focus on objects that (would) have symbolism later in the film. I want to do a serious topic, and I think this will be alcoholism and this is inspired by the song "Ludlow St" (You can take a look at the lyrics here). I want it to seem like a biographical film about a person who is fictional. If the film was to carry on, it would be about this person cleaning their life up and making something of themself. I want the opening emotions to be sad, depressing even. The audience needs to feel sorry for the character that lives in this environment and so, is interested about what will happen later in the film.
I may have a person, but I don't think there will be any dialogue, and if there is I want it to be very minimal.

Analyse

Psycho was an early use of the knife in horror but used it in a different way to recent films such as Halloween and Scream. Alfred Hitchcock is known for his clever way of portraying violence without showing huge amounts of macabre detail. Even in the famous shower scene, we barely see the knife as shadows are used cleverly so the viewer does not need to see such details to be scared. Even the idea that a "psycho" would come to murder a young woman for no reason is scary enough, especially for the time it was created. But, as audiences have changed more shock value is needed and the knife is certainly key to this. More recent films such as Halloween and Scream use the visual shock of a body being ripped open to scare the viewers while Psycho even shows minimal amounts of blood.
Audiences continue to ask for more in the way of shock, and directors seem to deliver. In the 1931 film Frankenstein censorship meant that the line in which Dr Frankenstein says "Now I know what it's like to be god!" was edited out because of the blasphemous nature of the line. Today, this line would be left unquestioned, it's not at all shocking to a viewer of today. In the case of the use of the knife, previously violence would only be implied. For example in Psycho shadow was used in a very intentional way, we never actually see the face of the murderer, but we do see his or her silhouette holding the knife. We also see shots of raised hands and the shape of the murderer. Although shadow is definitely still used in horror films today it is usually not used to hide graphic violence, instead directors of today like to focus on this detail of films.
Because of the accessible nature of the knife, it makes the viewer think about how, perhaps, anyone could do this. This idea is certainly played with in Scream when Ghost-face turns out to be two teenage characters Billy and Stu who are obsessed with Horror Films. They are rather 'average' people and this is scarier to the viewer. In Halloween the opening scene shows a 6 year-old Mike Myers killing his sister with a knife in her bedroom. The unnerving detail that it is a child committing such a horrific crime continues to play with the idea that no one is innocent. Also in Halloween Laurie's retaliation to the events is shocking. Stabbing him with any sharp object she can find shows us that this ordinary girl is also capable of killing another human being. Psycho takes another perspective on this idea, as Norman Bates has Personality Disorder he is rather unaware of what he has done, as even he himself believes it is someone else. But, for viewers this could be more unnerving and raises the question of  'What if I was in his position?'. Psycho plays with the idea of loss of control with in ones self, the murders are not organised as they were in Scream instead, they are simply a reaction to what has happened to Bates both in the past and more presently.

Explain

The phallic symbol idea gives depth to the characters in the film. Often, Horrors seem to focus on the fear both being felt by the characters in the film, and the fear felt by the viewer but have little focus on the protagonist. In Psycho we are introduced to Marion after it is apparent she has had premarital sex, we make the assumption she is a very sexual person and when she is stabbed this emphasises and stays true to this assumption. While in Halloween the protagonist, Laurie is a very innocent and perhaps even nerdy character. It is shocking for the audience to find the same character who previously brought a pile of books home for the weekend is now the same character who is attempting to protect herself by stabbing another person. From this, we learn that Laurie is not as innocent as we first thought.
A knife as a weapon allows the director to create a very graphic violence and so is helpful in the slasher sub-genre. Other possible weapons such as a gun although will kill the victim they do not leave enough space for shocking viewing. In the opening scene to Scream Casey Becker (played by Drew Barrymore) is brutally murdered by ghost face telling her he wanted  "To see what your insides look like". This results in Casey being brutally cut open and hanged, showing her insides and setting the macabre atmosphere for the entire film.
 Not only does the knife as a weapon add to the physical brutality intended in a horror film, but it also has the underlying impression that anyone is capable of taking such an awful action towards another person. A knife is a very common household item, everyone has one and this adds to the shocking qualities shown in any horror film that uses this convention. It seems that Norman Bates (Psycho) did not think out his murders, as it was to an extent out of his hands, so the knife may have been his only option, a simple weapon. Although we are not given much information on Myers' reasoning in Halloween other then the opening sequence where we see a 6 year-old Myers murder his sister and a small back story from Dr Loomis, it seems to be an act of tradition. He used the knife as a child, and is continuing this sick act.

Describe

Convention: Knife
The knife is constantly reused in the horror film genre. Mostly used in the slasher sub-genre, it is a weapon used not only to kill victims in a brutal manner, but also often used as a phallic symbol showing the possible sexual tension between the victim and the culprit. In the famous Alfred Hitchcock film Psycho, character Norman Bates uses a knife to murder his victims. After an obvious show of admiration for female character, Marion Crane, Bates' multiple personality of his mother stabs her to death while she is in the shower as a result of jealousy. Alternatively, this could be as a result of sexual frustration Norman has towards Marion.

The knife as shown in the famous shower scene. Psycho, 1960

 In the film Halloween the knife weapon continues to be used as a phallic symbol. Main character, Laurie is the most innocent and least sexually active of her friends. John Carpenter once explained "The one girl who is the most sexually uptight just keeps stabbing this guy with a long knife. She's the most sexually frustrated. She's the one that's killed him. Not because she's a virgin but because all that sexually repressed energy starts coming out. She uses all those phallic symbols on the guy." In the final sequence of the film in which Mike Myers is attempting to kill Laurie, she uses the knife (along with many phallic symbols such as a knitting needle) in attempt to murder him.

 

Laurie holding the knife in preparation for Mike Myers. Halloween, 1978

 

Technique: Mis-en-scene/Symbolism

Mis-en-scene is used to show the characters emotions towards other people and things in the film, and more importantly, in the opening. The prop of a harmonica is used to show John's genuine love and excitement for music. As the harmonica is placed on the table before John we see the rush of happiness upon his face and this introduces us to the Lennon who is famous to viewers; The Lennon who is passionate about music. Also in the opening, we are shown an element of status through blocking. Near the end of the scene, in which John is in the principals office, the Principal is sitting down on his chair whilst John is standing. The shows an element of character as John believes he is 'above' him, that he is in control of the situation and this theory is followed by the dialogue of the scene.

 

John sees and holds the harmonica for the first time.

 

John stands whilst the principal is seated.

The harmonica introduces us to John's passion for music. As this is an autobiographical film of someone so widely famous, the director had to show us in some way how far along John was with his musical interest and the harmonica shows this. From the dialogue within the scene it seems that John has not ever owned a harmonica (let alone any other instrument) but regardless, he is still very passionate about music (Later on John gets an acoustic guitar, and this becomes his new focus. After that John gets an electric guitar. It seems that as his musical talent increases, so does the quality of the instruments he plays). His uncle tells him that John will have his "first lesson, front room, eight o'clock tonight". The scene of the lesson is the first scene after the opening, and also the scene in which Uncle George suffers a liver hemorrhage and dies. As a result the harmonica becomes more important to John, and a symbol of the only father figure John had in his life. The loss of George is difficult for John as his death seems to change everything; he is left to juggle his relationship with Aunt Mimi and his real mother(whom he had never met before the funeral), Julia. Blocking is used well to show the quietly arrogant attitude John has towards himself. John stands, upright and confident in front of the principals desk while the principal stays seated. This shows the status John believes exists between them, that regardless of titles, John is in control of the situation. This sets the viewer up well for the John portrayed in the film. Although John was in some cases seen as arrogant (ie  "Bigger then Jesus") the character in the film is younger, and therefore more fearless and up himself. Later in the film when John is introduced to Paul (Mccartney, who of course would later become a member of The Beatles) John blatantly believes he is better then him in every way. After Paul shows his obvious talent, John still tells him no to joining the band. This is a rather unsurprising act of pride, and John seems to later only invite him into the band after a friend tells him "I'd rather him in our band then anyone else's".

Nowhere Boy used Mis-en-scene similarly as traditional forms of drama did such as Melodrama and Comedia de'llarte, although Nowhere Boy used the same conventions in a much more subtle, less amusing way. In melodrama, status was often shown by Kings and other forms of hierarchy often walking in tip toes, or others simply bowing or sitting lower then them. This is much the same as this situation of the film, yet with a more unobvious meaning behind it. In Comedia de'llarte the character Pantalone carries around a bag of money which he is never caught without. It is a symbol of something important to him; and an important aspect of the character. The harmonica, for John symbolises much the same; it's important to him and shows an important aspect to his character. The director seems to have used very traditional forms of drama to get complex points across to viewers.

Technique: Lighting/Colour

The colours used in the opening to Nowhere Boy have rather a yellow washed look about them. It seems dreamy and has a vintage-esque feel. This shows us a definite setting, it makes us feel nostalgic and warm, and therefore we realise this film must be set in the past. As the scene is morning, the lighting also is of the same nature, it has a relaxed feel and sets us up for what we believe will be a nice morning and ultimately, a nice movie. We are introduced to what we think as a good life for John as warm colors reflect a warm atmosphere of family and friends.

Throughout the film the colour of the filter is shown to change our emotions. The over all mood of the film is generally quite lighthearted, but as it is autobiographical the mood goes from highs to lows quite quickly. One moment you are laughing and the next you're in tears. This scene is positive and lighthearted, and therefore has a yellow wash which makes us feel nostalgic this is much the same as the effect 'sepia' does. It has a warming feeling and is usually something we associate with 'better times'. Later, in a more upsetting scene, The wash is a grey/blue tone. This plays with our emotions; the scene feels cold, and so do we.(See photos). The film is set between the years 1955 and 1960 so the colour of the filter puts us back into that time frame. For the most part, photos we see of the late 50's look worn and sun damaged. The camera angles are mostly at eye-level and this fact ads to this 50s photographic idea, Although the movie was filmed in the year 2009 it's almost as if the film was made back in 1955 and has since been colourised to give a more realistic feel to the film. This sense of warmth at the beginning could also have been used as a false sense of security as the same day that this happens, John's uncle, Uncle George dies suddenly as result of a liver hemorrhage. The weather seeming warm and the lighting being of golden tones  has set us as viewers up for positivity and this event surprises us, which is what the director intended.

   Opening: Positive scene; Shows yellow wash.   

                                Later in the film: Sad scene; Shows a blue wash.

Generally, people associate nice weather with a "good day", and the director has certainly played on such emotions. The sun is out, the scene feels warm, and viewers read this as "this movie will be upbeat". The viewer feels they can emotionally attach to the scene as they believe nothing bad is about to happen. This further accentuates the surprise and sadness we feel when Uncle George passes. After only 5 minutes of the film, we already feel a connection to John, as we weren't prepared for the death of a character either. (The scene in which Uncle George collapses has much the same yellow colouration, and both John and George are laughing; the scene is happy and carefree. We never lose a sense of comfort until Aunt Mimi comes home to deliver the bad news)

Technique: Dialogue

Dialogue is used wisely in the opening of Nowhere Boy to introduce character, and diminish status between the characters. The first line of dialogue we hear is Aunt Mimi speaking sternly at John saying "Do I ignore you? No. So please don't ignore me. I've called you twice". This shows Aunt Mimi's no-nonsense manner and also her old-fashioned outlook that teenagers should not be spoken to as equals. This is made obvious by the tone of voice she uses, it's as if Mimi believes that John could not get along in life if she wasn't there to guide him. Another crucial moment of dialogue is whilst John is in the principals office, being punished. The principal tells him; "At this rate, You'll be lucky to find a job on the docks, because at the moment you're going nowhere... here at Quarry Bank, generally, nowhere." To which John replies; "Is "Nowhere" full of geniuses, sir? Because then I probably do belong there." this shows us John's disparagement for authority, and further emphasizes the idea that Aunt Mimi has a serious control over him. 

The stern delivery of the first line in the scene not only shows us character but helps us jump back to reality after a dream sequence. We realise that John's life isn't full of touring and fans (yet), but he is in fact a normal 15 year old. It sets the scene, and holds the viewer as this is a section of John's life previously unexplored. The line also shows us Aunt Mimi's character which carries on as a focus for the film. Her disciplinary attitude and this stern angle on parenting carries on through much of the film. Symbolism also may have been used as Aunt Mimi interrupts John's dream and later on in the film, Mimi sells John's guitar as punishment for skipping school.Ultimately this could have ruined John's musical dream (as he says in the film,)'to be like Elvis'. The last dialogue we hear in the opening scene accentuates John's disrespect towards the elder people around him. John believes he should be spoken to as an equal, and if he isn't he believes he has the right to speak to them the same way. This also shows his quick wit, as there is no pause for thought. Implying he is a genius ( "Is "Nowhere" full of geniuses, sir? Because then I probably do belong there.") accentuates his self confident manner, his delivery and cockiness makes us believe him. 

10 years later a song was released by The Beatles, entitled "Nowhere Man" (1965, Rubber Soul). Whether the conversation above is completely fictional or otherwise, this is an obvious link the director was trying to achieve. The lyrics to "Nowhere Man" imply there is no place for this person in the world, yet as the lyrics say, "isn't he a bit like you and me".  Much like this moment in the scene, we feel we can relate to the comment the Principal is making to John and this might be a nod to the idea not everyone will appreciate your actions/attitude/etc.The song's lyrics imply that no one is above anyone else; that we are all on the same level, Much the same as this moment of dialogue. As viewers watching the film we relate to John, we see ourselves in him because, as the song implies we are all 'Nowhere Men'.

Technique: Music

Music is an important technique used in the film as it creates a positive atmosphere to start the movie off. The lyrics say "I'm gonna keep a movin' baby/ Don't you cramp my style/ I'm a real wild child", Introducing us to the carefree attitude John has towards life. His life seems very fast paced, he knows what he wants and how to get it, and the lyrics of the song reflect this idea. The music also begins at an interesting point. The song begins as Aunt Mimi walks into the room after John and George have been joking around with a sour look on her face. This, perhaps, shows irony. Aunt Mimi is very stubborn and uptight, in no way a 'wild child' and even has a distaste to this side of John.

The placement of the musics beginning positions the viewer to dislike Mimi, to want her to lighten up and to believe that John is not only the character you want to be friends with, but also the victim of his situation. (It is not until the end we find that Mimi actually saved John from being taken away by his estranged father, and so, the viewer believes that she isn't so bad after all.) This is an important aspect as the relationship John and Mimi share is a main and important focus for the film. More obviously, the lyrics introduce the character of John well. "I am real real cool" is the second line of the song, reflecting John's cocky attitude he had as a teen. Not only do we find that John has many friends, but we learn that everyone seems to like him (except for the 'Mods' in his town). John becomes more 'wild' in the film as he starts his band, and music becomes more important to him than anything else.

This creation of character through the music seems to be the opposite of the Lennon we know famously. As he is younger the song shows an element of innocence. Much different to the intelligent, highly respected artist we view John as today. The character in the film seems to be an extreme of what John was like when he was famous, showing that not only during the film but also beyond the span of the film John matured as a person.

Genre / Atmosphere

The film Nowhere Boy begins with an establishing shot of a building with dramatic pillars, And we see John running up the stairs away from, what we guess, is a mob of screaming female fans. The screams get louder, and more exciteable as the girls get nearer, Yet we still haven't actually seen them. John trips, and suddnley we are brought back to reality with a high shot of John in bed (See photo) as his stubborn Aunt Mimi wakes him for the morning; "Do I ignore you? No. So please don't ignore me. I've called you twice".  This introduces right from the beginning Lennon's longing to be famous. It also shows us the strong nature of Mimi, and her 'tough love' attitude she has towards John. Her uptight nature and the control she believes she has over John is one of the main focuses for the film.
The dream sequence also put us in a time setting, The movie is Autobiographical and based on someone so widely known. John Lennon is such a famous figure we need to be positioned to know at what stage of his life the film is beginning. The idea of screaming fans chasing Lennon is not an unexpected one. However, the viewer does not expect to be awoken to find this to be simply a dream. As a result, the viewer is interested right from the beginning.

The scene cuts to John, out of bed and at the breakfast table. His Uncle George joins him, making playful "Ooh" noises. He places something on the table and a close-up shot reveals a Harmonica. John smiles, and looking excited reaches to grab it. Uncle George says "Yeah, Very expensive!"
"Really?"
"No!"They both laugh and George tells John;
"First lesson. Front room. Eight o'clock tonight, Don't be late!" John embraces George and gives him a hug (See photo). This shows the viewer that not only is John passionate about music, but it also shows the contrast between the relationship of George and John, and Mimi and John. When John is with George the scene feels very light hearted, as if nothing is worth taking seriously. This is because the two characters treat each other as equals, and have a very close relationship. Whilst the relationship between Mimi and John feels tense, and serious. We as viewers get the feeling that Mimi has control over John, and so he acts differently in her company. This contrast is proven as Mimi walks into join at the breakfast table and both George and John sit up straight, and stop joking around.

"Wild One" by Jerry Lee Lewis begins to play (and continues for the duartion of the opening.). This backs up the "wild" nature of John. The song is upbeat and fast, giving the opening scene an upbeat and positive feel too. The lyrics state "I am real cool/ I got the jump I got the jive/ Got the message I'm alive/ I'm a wild one/ I'm a wild one" these lyrics, perhaps, show the attitude John has of himself. His high self confidence is reflected not only throughout the opening, but the whole film. His cocky yet charming attitude is reflected in the lyrics of this song.
As John is leaving for school we see Mimi tap on the window and say "Glasses, John.". John straight away does as he's told, taking his glasses out of his coat pocket and putting them on while his friend Pete blatantly mimicks Mimi saying "Glasses John!". This shows further that Aunt Mimi seems to have ties on John. While he is playful and relaxed with others, and in this case his friend, he seems to be much the opposite when she is around. As they begin to bike to school John slows down to a friend (Jimmy Tarbuck) saying;
"Hey, Tarbuck! Keep out of the chippie yah fat bastard!"
"Lennon you prick!"
Pete then replies; "He thinks he's hard, yah know?"
"He couldn't batter a fish!" (See photo)This line of dialogue not only emphasizes the light-hearted nature of the scene but also shows us further that John is well liked between his pairs. The line "He could'nt batter a fish" also gives us a sense of setting, both time and place. Obvious puns such as that aren't usual in every day conversation nowadays, but was just a usual aspect of conversation in England in the 1950's.

A mid shot of some girls in school uniform (See photo) as we hear John;
"Marie! My angel face, Show us your jugs?"
"Cock off Lennon! Or... Cock out?"
As the girls begin to giggle, John exposes himself. The girls keep laughing and walk away into the school grounds.

The scene cuts quickly with a close up of John outside what seems to be the Principals office. He is smiling(See photo), knowing that he is there for the inappropriate nature of his offense. We hear someone being strapped from inside the office. The door opens and John stands up straight and enters. Lighting is used to make the viewer believe that perhaps, John shouldn't be so comfortable, this part of the scene is very dark. When we hear someone being strapped, we know for sure that John will be in trouble, yet the look on his face implies he is unfazed by the whole situation.
"At this rate, You'll be lucky to find a job on the docks, because at the moment you're going nowhere... here at Quarry Bank, generally, nowhere."
"Is "Nowhere" full of geniuses, sir? Because then I probably do belong there."
This line not only emphasizes John's disregard for rules and control, but becomes more effective as it is the last line of dialogue from the opening scene. The fact he ignores the principals status goes to further emphasize his strange attitude and relationship with his Aunt Mimi as she is the only one he seems to listen to upon instruction (eg, "Glasses John" he acted upon this straight away.).

The opening ends with a tracking shot of trees as the title "NOWHERE BOY" shows (See photo). The camera pans across to show John sitting on the roof of a bus, looking as if he is deep in thought. The music ("Wild One" by Jerry Lee Lewis) comes to an end, and so does the opening.

Link to Opening of Nowhere Boy:

The link to watch the opening is here.
It begins at about 0:30 and finishes at about 2:59

Reason for Selection

I have chosen to do the opening sequence of the film Nowhere Boy. The film follows the teenage life of John Lennon, and the beginning of The Beatles. (Years 1955-1960).
The opening of the film shows what would seem to be an average morning for Lennon. Starting with a dream sequence of John running away from screaming fans, the dream is abruptly interrupted when his Aunt Mimi instructs him to get up out of bed. At the dinner table, we meet Johns uncle who tells him they will soon begin harmonica lessons, this is the first chance we get to see his appreciation and passion for music. While he bikes to school we see the city he lives in and once he arrives to school we see his interaction with his friends and girls. After a sly comment, John exposes himself inappropriately and gets himself a trip to the Principals office. The last shot is John sitting on the roof of a bus.
The opening introduces the film well as it shows many aspects that carry on the whole way through, such as John's keenness for music, and his disobeyment for authority. We also see the interactions between John and his Aunt Mimi, which is one of the main focuses for the film.
The opening to Nowhere Boy gives me a lot to write about. It has many components such as a dream sequence, music and dialogue. It also shows character and setting (Time and Location) very well. I also believe the opening (and the whole film) are visually interesting because of the costume and the locations.

Thoughts on opening credits.

Currently, I have a few ideas on what opening I should study, but nothing definite.
I have an idea of doing the opening to Cherrybomb as I think it will work well. It shows the two characters and the setting. The whole movie is a flashback, so it has connections to the ending which I think would be good to analyse. But, I have other options too. I thought of doing the opening to Coraline which shows metal hands creating a doll that looks like a young girl with blue hair, the same as the main character of the movie. The scene is Tim Burton-esque and shows the beginning of the troubles in the movie. I have to keep looking around though as I don't feel totally sure about any of them.