Saturday Shoot

Reflecting on this past Saturday's shoot helped me realize the sheer value in filmmaking. In my opinion, I feel that making a film may be more enjoyable than watching one. Furthermore, I think watching the film who help create is even more of an exhilarating experience. I have never worked with a bolex before and I consider as quite an unique experience. I was enthralled by the process of loading the relatively ancient device-- how I was easily well acquanted with its inner workings (unlike a digital camera, where I am still left in a ball of confusion as to how all the little buttons work). Just the sound the bolex makes as the film slides through the gate inspires me to create.

Our idea was to create a short that was similar to an old action serial combined with a Charlie Chaplin film. As exploration of greed, it was a minor comedy about various people searching for treasure. Essentially, it leads to a massive fight, ending with people trampled and even pimp slapped (think of it as a music video for the Village People b-side as directed by Michel Gondry and you;ll get the picture. Anyway creating it was a lot of fun—lots of spontaneity, which is great. You could really sense that everyone had a blast in doing it, and I was surprised by how little takes it took to pull it off.

I am willing to admit that I was first annoyed that we were spending such a beautiful day in class, but I honestly would not have anything better to do. What made it all so cool is that it did not even feel like we were in class. One small moment that sticks out for me is when we were rolling five deep in Brandon’s car. It really felt like my buddies going out and making a silly little film. It is a great feeling to have.

I finally learned how to develop film (sad I know, considering that I am a Senior majoring in FILM studies). Despite all of the chemicals, I love how “organic” it feels. Although arguably not as practical, I seriously wish that film does not go the way of the dinosaur. The “of the earth” style (this is the best way I can convey how I feel) is as mysterious as it is wonderful. I also wish that I can get my hands on one of those bolex cameras in the future. I think I come up with a few things that I can do with it…