And the winner of best director goes too… The winner of best actor and actress goes too… The winner of best screenplay goes too…
During the Oscars this is what we usually read or hear about. All the hype, and the accolades after is directed into these specific areas.
Let me ask you a question who won Best Art direction at last years awards… That’s it go google it as you pause a moment, whilst you search the answer.
Why am I discussing this and why do I think it’s important. First and foremost the work that goes into the art department is key to a successful film.
The art department during the production process create the set design and the props. The set design is often gifted a masterpiece from the director, in fact it’s developed by the art department. Props can range from anything that could be a robot or face masks that may fit the next zombie film, or a scene in Psycho (1960).
For example; the script that has been produced for the Open-Set, the art department have orchestrated the entire look, alongside with props needed. Also, not forgetting the tight schedule they have to work from.
Before I started my internship at Gothenburg Film Studios I was very unware of the art department. Wanting to create my own films, it become apparent that this was a major flaw of mine.
Like most, my formal education did not concentrate within this area and the media coverage is limited. So why would I consider this aspect as an inspiring filmmaker!
This is a great opportunity for you during GoKinema, as there are many exciting prospects that will expand your knowledge, develop your skill set and create a wider network.
Staff currently in the exhibition will show case their work, which you can ask questions. They will demonstrate props that are coherent with special effects and display costumes.
The real fun during the exhibitions is the electrical robot, which will be show-cased!
Audiences will be able to join in with the fun and try on the masks that are designed. This will allow everybody to see the step-by-step routine that occurs on set.
This will allow you to view how much work goes into this specific field. Also, I have visited the staff as they prepare for GoKinema and it looks truly fantastic.
After numerous discussions with the art department, it is clear to me this is an extraordinary opportunity for all to see.
Whether you are looking for talented artists, wanting to learn more or aspiring to work in the art department, then this is for you.
There is often debate about what is a true art form. Well, after having the opportunity to spend time and have the staff display me their work, it was clear… The art direction displayed without doubt was the essence of ”A True Art Form”.
Since the worldwide economical collapse in 2008, many industries have felt the hit. With Europe and America in turmoil facing huge deficits, it is inevitable that the indigenous cinema would feel the burden. In these tough times it’s the young generation that are taking the brunt. With high unemployment across the boarder, its hard enough to stack shelves. The film industry is tough enough for the aspiring to break through however, the difficality has been hardened. I can already visualise the sigh of the young shaking their heads, agreeing as they continue to read this.
But, there is light at the end of the tunnel, which I plan to captivate you within this blog. On the 28th January this month during GoKinema, a master class will be held, known as; ”GoKinema Factory”. GoKinema Factory is a ’FREE’ master class, broken into two parts, which begins 15:30 and finishes at 18:15.
Master Class 1 Short – and Feature film (15:30-17:00)
The first master class will held by directors Maciej Kalymon (Imperium Film) and Fijona Ionuzi (Plattform Production). Both directors will outline in their presentations, techniques for young aspring filmmakers, which will help them break into the industry. Often starting a career in the film indsutry the conventional style is to start from the bottom as a runner and work your way up the ladder. However, Kalymon and Lonuzi have broken this convention, as they are both near to directing their first feature film. They plan to educate and inspire young filmmakers by creating a great short film, an alternative way to debut yourself into the feature film world. Still, this can be a hard task, especially with having the technical ability to execute the film and finding the funding. Both directors aim to help you discover ways and means of overcoming these obstacles, helping you achieve your dreams. Having Kalymon and Lonuzi share their knowledge for free in order to help you grow is something truly special. This rare oppourtunity should not be overlooked.
Master Class 2 Documentaries – and transmedia projects (17:15-18:15)
15 minutes after the insightful master class based on short- and feature films, we have another treat for you! Documentary and transmedia directors Kerstin Übelacker and Michael Cavanagh will offer their expertise, whilst discussing into detail their latest project ”Ghost Rocket”. Ghost Rocket is a film that discusses the ongoing debate of UFO’s sighted in the Sweden and around the world since 1946. The use of transmedia will be discussed in relation to helping the brand’s success. This is an absolute must for all filmmakers wanting to specificy in this area. Übelacker and Cavanagh have set the blue print of how to be successful. Now they will share it with you face-to-face.
Cecillia Lidin
The next day Cecillia Lidin documentary film consultant will produce a presentation regarding the documentary industry. This is a great chance for all you documentary film freaks to gain an exceptional insight over these two days. Without doubt you will leave with a great groundbase to work from, whilst adding to your skill set.
Final Thought
The philosophy of GoKinema Factory is simple. You need help in these tough times, so we will act by delivering outstanding master classes for free. We have arranged a party on the following Thursday, which begins 20:00 and ends 02:00. After your inspiring seminars you can have fun, meet new people and create a wider network. The whole of Gothenburg Film Studios and the GoKinema team will be attending.
You will need to book your tickets online at www.gokinema.com/sv/visitors/gokinema-factory. There is limited tickets for the master classes and party so you need to book them ASAP!
We hope to see you on the 28th and you can be part of ”The Factory of Success”.
It’s been a while since I last blogged however; there is a justification for this atrocity. I have been working on set last week and during the weekend shooting a short film.
But now I am all yours.
So, GoKinema starts in 11 days and there are many exciting prospects coming your way.
First, I will be visiting the screenwriter for the open set; Erlend Loe. I will carry out an in-depth interview, discussing Loe’s journey to international recognition. Also, discussing his script for the open set and his opinion on GoKinema.
Other interviews will be from; Geoff Boyle (Director of Photography), Dado Valentic (Colour Grading Artist), Benjamin Bergery (New Media Artist) and Phillippe Vie owner of Cam A Lot, who specialise in Digital Cinematography.
There will be specific details for the exhibitions, seminars and master classes.
And the announcements of the directors and cinematographers joining the open set.
Exciting times are ahead and keep an eye out for the next blog!
I am pleased to announce the first cinematographer working on the open set is; Ita Zbroniec-Zajt.
Ita is a young up and coming Cinematographer from Poland. At the age of only 28, she has recently completed her studies at the prestigious Polish Film School.
After impressing on numerous shorts and other works, Ita has gained a positive reception. Now Ita and GoKinema find themselves hand-in-hand for this great event.
After speaking with Ita over the phone it become apparent that she is very humble. Not giving me many answers of why her work is special, she would often convert the conversation into a different direction.
I was able to discover cinematographers’ that have inspired her, who are: Harris Savides, Robby Muller, Emmanuel Lubezki, Jola Dylewska and Ed Lachman.
Also, Ita made the point to mention her enjoyment for the Hollywood Cinema. Familiar directors such as; Steven Spielberg and the Coen brothers sprung to mind.
Films that have inspired Ita are: Paris, Texas (1984), Tulpan 2000, Fish Tank (2009) and the work of Bruno Dummont films.
It become apparent to me that there is a wide taste of genres, which was very refreshing.
Ita made the point that she works with both film and digital. Loving the look and feel of film however, admitting sometimes digital can portrayal a deeper meaning.
Once are conversation come to an end I decided it was time to undertake primary research of Ita in action…
After viewing some of Ita’s work via her online show-reel, no words could describe the work presented in front of my eyes… It was truly beautiful cinematography. It made me sit back and acknowledge a true artist in the making. It was inspiring to say the least.
Ita’s humble personality can easily mislead how talented she really is. That old cliché action speaks louder than words is certainly appropriate right now.
In relation to her work, I think what was most striking for me, was the ability she had to tell a story through one frame opposed to excessive dialogue.
The use of lighting in Ita’s work was specifically noticeable. The characters often have this dark look, metaphoric for a dark passenger among them. Still, there are shimmers of light within the framing giving some hope.
What reminded me of Ita’s style was a film called Import/Export (2007), directed Ulrich Seidl. Why? Exactly the same reasons I discussed above.
Now I am excited to see how Ita will help craft her style into the creation of the script.
After viewing her work and having first hand information regarding the script, I can honestly say I am very excited.
Check out Ita’s online portfolio and make your own assumption at: http://vimeo.com/itadop
And please feel free to agree or disagree by posting comments!
The New Year has kicked started and often people in their day-to-day lives find themselves a little down. Why? Well after a nice long break over the Christmas and New Years holiday there is a long way to go before anything else exciting.
This is what makes the film industry very different. The first day I stepped back into work this week, I could feel a buzz around the place. With GoKinema and Gothenburg Film Festival approaching at the end of this month, there’s so much excitement.
Most of us are often slaves to our profession. Not all of us have the luxury of loving our work and many of us find ourselves unfulfilled. Some just don’t know what they really want or how to feel so strongly towards something.
Without generalising, as human beings it appears we crave more than just money, love and accessories.
For me personally and my colleagues I find one main trait that stands out most more than any other profession I have experienced… Passion.
The passion that many filmmakers have for their profession is unbelievable. The boundaries they will push for their vision is quite simply remarkable.
The first professional production I worked on really placed these words into feeling for me. When I first stepped onto set it can be best described as “organised chaos”. Everything was a 100 miles an hour; my colleagues were extremely stressed pushing themselves to the limit.
At the end of the day, it was apparent that everything had been successfully completed. It was an unbelievable experience. People hugging and kissing one another with great wide smiles. No money or items could buy that feeling of accomplishment. We done it…
I believe this what makes the film industry so special.
Regarding GoKinema, we have directors, cinematographers, production crews and production companies coming all over the world to join in. That burning desire to learn, share and experience something new.
The Open Set is a prime example; with major directors and cinematographers coming to work for free. Why, because to them it all sounds simply fascinating and they want in.
How many people do you know that can honestly say this about their industry they are in now? And can you say this?
For people in the film industry what does this mean to you?
There can be many interpretations within this blog. However, I liked to think that you could indentify that our industry is based upon people coming together for the love of what we are doing.
This is why GoKinema plays such an important part in the Film Industry. It gives everyone an opportunity to gain something new.
I could keep writing because there is so much to say. My last thought is for you to come join us and endure the GoKinema cure…
