The 2012 Make It Reel film school is well underway here at Warwick Arts Centre, with 25 young people attempting to make five short films in five days.
To get everyone into the spirit of cinema, the first task of the week saw the group making some “microshorts” based on the Code of Conduct for movie-goers drawn up by film critic Mark Kermode and BBC Radio 5Live presenter Simon Mayo. The group had a great time filming amusing litlle scenes representing the different rules: No talking, no shoe removal, and absolutely no mobile phones!
Then it’s down to serious business. The aim of the week is to make a five minute film, with a five person crew, in five days. Having been split into these groups, the first task is to get talking – throw some ideas out there! The kids spend some time developing their ideas, taking into consideration the locations and props needed, the cast and the plot, plus that all important thing that every successful film needs – an ending that will make the audience wanting more!
After a brainstorm, the groups present their two ideas to everyone else, in a two-minute film pitch. In front of a panel and against a ticking clock, it’s a race against time to clearly and accurately get across their ideas. Some fantastic stories are presented: tales of haunted houses, memory loss, human alligators, assassins and Sockzillas terrorising the city – there’s much to amuse an entertain us here!
Once the they have received input and feedback, one idea is picked, and it’s time to start planning – scenes and locations and scripts and props; it’s all go! Because tomorrow, the filming begins!!
See below for a rough cut of the “No Talking” part of the code of conduct!
