Opening Intro Research

Opening introductions in coming-of-age movies usually show the protagonist's everyday life or an important occurrence. The title is typically introduced during the opening few minutes of the film, frequently memorably or stylistically to set the tone for the film. Credits are typically put at the beginning or end of the film. In coming-of-age movies, choosing a font might differ significantly depending on the overall aesthetic and feel of the movie. However, titles and credits frequently include traditional, easily readable fonts that fit the tone and ideas of the film. Helvetica, Futura, and specially-made fonts for the movie are common options. We frequently see someone getting ready in the morning.

After researching and coming across "The Edge of Seventeen," the opening scene of "The Edge of Seventeen," the camera tracked Nadine, the protagonist. It panned across her high school hallway bustling with students. Nadine and the theme of this movie are heavily shown through the opening and introduced in a relatable scenario, navigating the awkwardness of adolescence. The credits appear in a contemporary and youthful font, reflecting the film's modern tone. The title "The Edge of Seventeen" could be shown through mise-en-scene, such as graffiti on a locker or a scribbled note, capturing the essence of teenage emotions. I noticed that the credits and the title are in the same color yet different fonts as the title has a larger, bolder font which we typically see in film openings.

Genre Research

I decided that I am doing a coming-of-age genre. I wanted to take inspiration from Mean Girls which is a teen comedy, but put a spin on it.

Coming-of-age films typically star teenagers and are targeted toward teen audiences, which follow the lives and adventures of young adults, specifically middle school and high school students. The coming-of-age film is a level of emotion and response from audiences according to Raindance. Early coming-of-age films were mostly adaptations of well-known books, such as Little Women and The Wizard of Oz. 

 These films usually follow a characters realizing their future and showing their development from a child to a young adult. They also include things like first romantic relationships which I may implement into my own project. This genre mainly focuses on the growth and development of a protagonist from youth to adulthood. Like other films from this genre, I'm going to include mental, emotional, and personal growth in my main character. 

 A lot of times this genre revolves around themes such as self-discovery, identity, friendship, love, and the search for meaning in life. It usually deals with the journey of the main character and deals a lot with character vs. self which I will implement into my project. This genre deals with identity and figuring out who you are as a person which is a huge theme that I want to use. Challenges and obstacles within the character definitely exist. While a lot of this could be emotional and heartfelt, humorous moments can exist and will certainly exist in my piece.

Image of Nadine from "The Edge of Seventeen,

After some research, I found a film called "The Edge of Seventeen," which depicts a similar theme that I want to implement into my project. Nadine, a high schooler struggles with isolation, insecurity, and anger which she uses to lash out at those around her like family, friends, and even one of her teachers. She ends up on a journey of growth and realization of how her actions are caused by her internal struggles. This film also has humourous moments while still portraying the complexities of teenage, and I liked how it used a coming of age genre to show a journey of growth. I will definitely be using this film to guide me in my opening.

Transition Post

From this point on, my blog posts will be solely focusing on my Cambridge Portfolio project. I am excited to showcase all of the knowledge that I have gained in this class so far and hopefully create a great film opening. I will implement a lot of knowledge from past projects ike sound from the music project and filming from the music marketing video. I must now brainstorm and plan out dates of how I wat to organize my steps. I will complete 3 weekly blog posts and document/take notes of any steps taken (which will eventually be put into my final blog post). I want to work in a group of 3, with Madi and Clara. We will each film and we may bring in friends to act. I want to add my blog posts to my Canvas calendar to remind me of when to post. I want to wait and hear ideas from Madi and Clara before getting hooked on an idea. I think I may want to establish a character vs. society conflict. If not, I will do a character vs. character conflict. I want to do a development of a character as my establishing technique by engaging audience for example, my target audience will be teens and young adults (18-25). I'm using this strategies to create a relatable aspect to evoke emotion and understanding toward viewers. I wish for my piece to provide viewers with characteristics and habits commonly seen in teens.

Music Marketing Blog Post #2

 

For the researching part, Madi, Clara, and I started to research country music after receiving our genre. None of us had that much knowledge of country music besides Madi so it was very interesting to research.

We completed our research chart by splitting it up with two case studies for myself and one for Madi and Clara.  

Example from our Music Research Chart

After hearing our very heart-wrenching song, “Need You Now” we knew that this song had to be about two individuals. Madi, Clara, and I decided that our singer, Kacey Smith, would represent a brand to help navigate women, aged 25 to 40, through the complexities of relationships and life. Our video would be based on Madi and I splitting up as friends. 

 

Example from our Google Doc brainstorming sheet.

Clara took over the marketing campaign, creating a captivating website and social media accounts as well as pre-launch details.

Madi and I created a storyboard which made the filming process a lot easier but we had some complications when we realized that some clips just did not belong and some needed to be added. We did not rush and made any necessary changes.

4 examples of shots from our storyboard.

The filming process was not easy, but it wasn’t as bad as it seemed. We had plenty of retakes, and a lot of changes were made along the way. We each took turns filming depending on who was in the shot.

Madi filmed a high-angle of me during our music video.

                            Madi took on the role of editing our music video. She created flashbacks by putting a black-and-white filter over us up above.

For the presentation, I primarily did most of it. We all filmed our voiceovers and Madi implemented them into the presentation. It took a long time and we had to make sure it looked appropriate for the genre.

Overall, I think I put my all into this project and didn’t know what I was capable of. After seeing that I had to complete a research chart, storyboard, music video, and presentation, I thought all of that was so unnecessary. Little did I know that all of that was extremely important to plan and it made things go by so much faster. I also underestimated the amount of time that needed to be put into the music video because there were many retakes, and the presentation was not formed in one try. When creating my Cambridge portfolio, I will definitely be thinking about planning ahead and accounting for time. 

Music Marketing Blog Post #1

After receiving country as our music genre, Madi, Clara, and I looked into the meaning of country music, its important facts, and distribution and marketing trends that were particular to the genre. We chose Warner Records Nashville and Universal Music Group Nashville for our production companies. After picking our two production companies, I did the case studies on Chris Stapleton and Luke Bryan for the Universal Music Group. For Warner Records Nashville, Madi did a case study on Zach Bryan and Clara did Blake Shelton.

Example from our Music Research Chart

Modern Family Representation

Modern Family is more than just a source of entertainment; it also reflects societal dynamics. One of its unique characteristics is its diverse cast, with each person representing a distinct aspect of the Modern Family structure. Modern Family is a sitcom televised for over 11 seasons. The show deals with many cultural backgrounds, sexual orientations, the LGBTQ+ community by accurately portraying today's society compared to other generational norms. 

The Pritchett-Dunphy family's diversity stretches beyond the surface, challenging stereotypes and embracing what a real family is despite differences. Mitchell and Cameron, a gay couple, break down the wall of sexual orientation stereotypes by portraying a healthy, loving relationship that connects with viewers regardless of their sexual orientation. Through Mitchell and Cameron, Modern Family emphasizes the universal significance of family bonds while normalizing LGBTQ+ relationships, contributing to broader societal acceptance.

Gloria Pritchett is presented as a "fiery latina" and occasionally sterotyped which limits the cultural expectations of Latinas. Her accent and language difficulties are used as humor on the show. This could be reinc=forcing to the stereotypes of Latinas and present them in an negative, humiliating light.

 

Jay Pritchett's character skillfully takes on differences between generations. Jay's traditional values as a father frequently clash with the more modern perspectives of his daughter Claire, his son Mitchell and son-in-law Phil. This generational conflict allows the audience to invesigate and, in certain circumstances, confront their own differences. Viewers are encouraged to consider how families can have different social norms within them and in media, can represent the diversity of our real world.

Modern family represents many "outgroups" or different minorities and encourages the audience to view them as the norm and see how they interact in different family settings. The many "typical" daily life activities taking place throughout the show allow the audience to connect with the groups they may not typically interact with in their own lives. I loved how I can connect myself and picture myself as one of the family members because of the realitability of the show. Overall, this show had an amazing repesentation of diversity and inclusion and I throughly enjoyed watching it. 

 

 

Genre Research Activity

Genre: Sci-Fi

Sci-Fi: What Is It?

Sci-fi, or science fiction, is a form of fiction that deals principally with the impact of actual or imagined science upon society or individuals.

Typical Target Audience of the Genre:

The target audience for the science-fiction genre is diverse, but it often appeals to people interested in technology, the future, and exciting ideas. This genre can attract a broad spectrum of people, including young adults, scientists, and those who enjoy exploring the possibilities of advanced technology and space exploration. 

Regarding the content of science fiction films, they typically feature futuristic or otherworldly settings, often depicting advanced technology, space travel, or alternative timelines. Sci-fi explores mind-boggling concepts, such as time travel, artificial intelligence, extraterrestrial life, parallel universes, and dystopian societies. Sci-fi often delves into questions about human nature, identity, and morality in the face of technological advancements.

"Blade Runner" is a sci-fi film that displays the genre's conventions. It presents a dystopian future, features advanced technology like replicants, and explores themes of humanity and artificial intelligence. The film's production design, including the iconic cityscape, showcases the futuristic vibe of the genre.

Production Techniques:

1. Sci-fi films frequently rely on cutting-edge visual effects and CGI to bring futuristic worlds and advanced technology to life. Soundscapes are crucial in creating mesmerizing environments and enhancing the emotional impact of the narrative. The genre demands imaginative costumes and set design to establish the visual aesthetics of future or alien worlds. Sci-fi can employ unusual camera angles and techniques to emphasize the otherworldly or futuristic elements of the story.

Institutional Conventions - How is the Genre Marketed:

1. Sci-fi film posters often feature futuristic imagery, space scenes, or advanced technology to convey the genre's essence. Trailers for sci-fi films highlight the visual effects and concepts to draw in audiences. Many sci-fi films also have active social media campaigns, engaging fans with teasers, behind-the-scenes content, and interactive experiences. Sci-fi films are frequently promoted at events like Comic-Con, which attract a dedicated fan base. Sci-fi movies often have merchandise such as action figures and clothing for fans.

In "The Matrix" (1999) Neo is shown dodging bullets and showing a simulated reality.

Other Film Examples within the Genre:

1. 
   "2001: A Space Odyssey" (1968)
   
   
   
   
   
   
2. 
   

   
3. "Interstellar" (2014)
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5. 
   
6. 
   
7. 
   
   
8. "Star Wars" (1977)
9. 
   
   
1. "E.T. the Extra-Terrestrial" (1982)
10. 
1. "The Terminator" (1984)
11.