Evaluation

For my Film Studies coursework portfolio, I produced a short

five minute film called Quickfire as I intended to reflect
upon my thesis: the representation of black males has changed
over the years in comtemporary film, focusing on the 1970s to
present day. My aims were to illustrate how the representation
of black men have been demonstrated due to societys viewing
of the race, due to the influence of social, political and
economical factors in particular. My film is in the genre of
action, with elements of drama included, similar to some of
the films that have inspired my idea: Boyz N The Hood, TopBoy
(TV Show) and Attack The Block. I used these productions in
order to help me to create the verisimilitude for my audience.
It was vital that I used the microelements to my advantage to
portray my initial narrative behind the text, which is why the
use of mise-en-scene, cinematography, sound and editing was
integral to the overall success of my final product.
Before constructing my short film, I decided to create
planning and research materials that would help me to keep on
track as well as ensuring that my final product would be the
most suitable and enjoyable for my target audience. I also
wanted my production to deliver powerful messages and values
to the audience in order to enhance their viewing experience
whilst letting them learn something from the film. Although
one of my aims was to satisfy my audience, my main aim was to
illustrate how negatively the Black race is represented
through the media due to common stereotypes the Black race has
been labelled with and the extent to which they affect
society. I decided to present my idea through the use of codes
and conventions that audiences would expect to see usually
when viewing a Black film. My target audience consisted of
predominantly males as there were no females throughout the
entire production, meaning there was a lower possibility that
they could relate to the text. Also, the themes that are
present within my production, such as violence is usually
suited and preferred by males.
I created a potential character list which involved a few
individuals whom I thought had the required skills to
participate as the primary roles in my production. I aimed to
deliver my idea by having a group of three protagonist friends
in which I came to a conclusion to have Jaydon Charles (18)
Dominican, Kelechi (18) Nigerian/Jamaican and Thuvaaragan

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Kuruparan (18) Asian. The three friends proceed through the

story, getting themselves caught up in a drug feud with a
rival gang member. The characters showed little emotion other
than fear, which was presenting through the scenes of the
chase between the antagonist and protagonists. I used a
variety of shots to present clearer views of the characters so
the audience could feel a better connection and relationship
with the characters. I was able to maintain a high intensity
for the scenes of the chase whilst also keeping the audiences
attention maintained on the production through the use of
generic codes and conventions. This was due to the fact that
the audience could relate with a real-world experience or
something theyve heard on social media or the news.
All of my characters conformed with some kind of stereotype
that is broadcasted in todays society. For example, the use
of a gun is what is expected when the subject of gangs is
being concerned. If we compare my production to Boyz N The
Hood we can see that a lot of the stereotypes that were
conformed, were imported into my own production. The audience
take these aspects for granted as it is what they are used to
seeing on a day-to-day basis. For example, if my characters
were to all dress in white, immediately the audience would
notice and think negatively of my production, which goes to
show how important codes and conventions are when creating a
production. However, although this plays a large role on the
rating and quality of the production, so do the microelements,
some more than others. For example, in an action film,
cinematography and editing are likely to be the most relevant
factors that piece together a film. In my case, I made sure I
used a wide variety of shots in order to capture the scene
from different perspectives as it would give the audience a
much wider understanding about the setting as well as the
characters. Making the production more diverse gave the
audience a more enhanced viewing experience as well as opening
their eyes to new techniques. I thought it would be a good
idea to add my own spin on techniques used by other
productions that I researched. For example, I imported the
idea of a tracking shot stopping still with the characters
walking off-frame after a conversation or dialogue ends.
For my planning and research, I was required to also produce
location notes, gathering images and notes of my desired
locations, analysing how each location would be most suitable
for my short film. I had come to a conclusion that I wanted to

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use multiple locations in order to keep the audience on their

toes and keep their attention focused on the production the
whole way through. I ensured that I chose locations that would
complement my characters, matching the setting whilst
supporting the general codes and conventions. I also used
different locations to use Roland Barthes enigma code theory;
using specific icons to provide the audience with suspense and
mystery which will keep them entertained. For example, I
didnt introduce the character of The Ghost instantly at the
start of the production as it wouldnt build up as much
tension as to if I introduce him slightly later, making the
audience ask questions. Lighting was an important aspect for
me to take into consideration also when picking my locations.
I knew that I wanted light locations so that I could edit the
brightness during the editing stage if I felt like it needed
to be changed for whatever reason.
Similar to the films that I researched, I followed a linear
narrative whilst it being an open text as it allowed the
audience to feel eager to watch more during the experience
viewing the film. I decided to do this as the title
Quickfire is used as a metaphorical way of presenting quick,
fast paced scenes of action. I incorporated two prime
narrative theorists ideas into my film, who were: Todorov and
the 5 stage equilibrium theory (as my story started at
equilibrium, turned to disruption of equilibrium, then to
recognition, attempt to repair and new equilibrium. I also
used Barthes enigma code theory which suggests things can be
perceived in different ways by an audience. I was able to keep
the audience engaged with the storyline, adapting to the ways
in which the representation of black males has changed over
the years in film, an important factor within my media
product.
My planning and research was extremely beneficial to me during
the stages of post production, as my final product had
successfully reflected upon my planning and research
materials. The use of these materials allowed me to make sure
I was constantly organised as well as using my time
efficiently. Although, if I had a chance to reconstruct my
product, I would have spent a lot more time editing it to
perfection to have the best effect on the audience.
Word Count: 1,244/1,250

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