THRILLERRRR THRILLER NIGHT (openings)

 

Call me Micheal Jackson Because it's THRILLER BABY!

I feel the opening of a thriller film is crucial because it establishes tone, introduces the genre, and pulls the audience into the story almost immediately. A successful thriller to me opening doesn’t reveal really everything at once BUT carefully builds suspense instead, hinting at danger and makes the viewer uneasy. For our  thriller-horror film opening (because that's what we're doing), we analyzed several existing films to understand how tension is used to introduce the main plot line and the fear alongside it effectively. The three thriller film openings we decided to analyze are Scream (1996), Nerve (2016), and The Ring (2002).

Scream (1996)

The opening scene of Scream is a strong example (and also an example that i've analyzed before...) of how a thriller horror film can use setting and pacing to build fear. The entire opening takes place inside a house, a location that is usually associated with safety and comfort. By showing the main character completely alone inside her home multiple times, the audience immediately feels vulnerable, setting the stage for uneasiness. Rather than introducing intense horror immediately, the opening begins calmly with an innocent phone call. This slow introduction allows tension to gradually build before the horror escalates. The use of isolation, silence, and confined space makes the scene feel claustrophobic and suspenseful. This is especially important for our film because we want to understand when it is appropriate to introduce horror elements. Scream shows that delaying the full horror while letting suspense grow can make the eventual scare much more effective. This opening also establishes the thriller genre instantly by creating uncertainty and fear without explaining everything. The audience knows something is wrong, but they are unsure exactly what will happen next.

Nerve (2016)

We analyzed the opening of Nerve mostly for its creative use of technology as a storytelling tool in its opening. Instead of traditional dialogue or action, the film introduces the main character and plot almost entirely through her computer screen. It reminded me a lot of part of the Nearpod about film openings and how sometimes movies use the radio or News footage to give background information to viewers. By watching her click through social media, videos, and websites, the audience quickly learns about her personality, relationships, and the online world she exists in, isn't that so neat? This opening is effective because it delivers a large amount of background information without feeling slow or forced. HOWEVER, we don't need to deliver large amounts of information in our film opening as we're centering the interaction solely on the paranormal activity happening with her ring camera. In Nerve, the character goes through a college decision, talks about how her mom doesn't want her to leave, shows her love of photography, her crush, her best friend, her music lalalalalalala AHHHH we don't need it. AFTER all of that is introduced THEN we get the famous Nerve game intro which I also thought was really neat like, even from the beginning, the character is tied to technology which is basically where the main conflict derives from. Like (spoilers) through technology, the Nerve game completely took over her life later for snitching and in the beginning she gave SOO MUCH INFORMATION about her own life through just a minute long computer screen sequence. Really shows how much information we give on the internet... that's probably what we were supposed to take from the film #wildthought? (im kidding. Also can you tell that I actually watched Nerve and not Scream? Maybe I should do that.... Nerve is just such a good movie.) ANYWAYS this computer sequence is something we want to utilize in our own thriller film opening. Nerve proves that clicking, scrolling, and digital interaction can communicate character and conflict efficiently, while also making the story feel modern and realistic. It builds tension subtly by showing how technology can pull someone into danger without them realizing it at first. And technology, something thats so familiar and ordinary, reels the audience into a false sense of security before easing them into the horror and paranormal aspects of our movie

(wow holy yap.)

The Ring (2002)

The opening scene of The Ring is annother good example of a thriller that relies on atmosphere rather than immediate action. We particularly picked this film opening as the movie has ties to the paranormal, and thats the angle we want to take in terms of Horror. The scene begins casually, with a normal conversation between characters, which mirrors everyday life. However, there is an underlying sense of unease created through lighting, sound design, and silence. Instead of showing obvious paranormal activity right away, the opening hints at it through dialogue and unsettling details.The supernatural element is introduced carefully, allowing suspense to grow before anything truly frightening happens, sorta kinda like scream. Anywhoo, the Ring demonstrates how thriller openings can suggest the supernatural without fully exposing it which helps maintain mystery while also building tension (which is what we want). It reinforces the idea that fear is often more effective when it is implied rather than shown outright (wait bars?)

FINAL REFLECTION

I think I write more passionately on films I've actually watched. I don't think I like horror... it makes me nervous (which is the point) put i've made a side note to myself to try and watch AT LEAST scream. I will not watch the Ring. YES IM SCARED CANCEL ME! But yea, this one was a silly one. I think that thriller openings are kind of like a swoop. Very slowly building tension and then SWOOP! It builds up from literal zero like you don't even expect it. But yeah, i'm excited for this one. WOO!

Production Schedule

 Film Opening Project Schedule

     Long term projects are fairly daunting in terms of having so much to do and so much time to do it. Honestly, it leads to a lot of procrastination but with a good breakdown and work schedule for the project, the project looks a little less daunting.

Let's BBBreak it down now..

1. Initial Research
◦ Research, analyze, and discuss with my group film openings from my chosen genre.
◦ Analyze and discuss credit sequences from films within my chosen genre with group.

◦  research movie plot examples within my chosen genre.
◦ Research a media theory to integrate into our project.

2. Project Overview & Scheduling
◦ summarize my project idea and major inspirations with group.
◦ Create a project schedule convenient for group, including time for CCR production.
◦ Meet with group about overall project overview

3. Planning & Pre-Production
◦ Develop character for film

◦ Find and cast actors for film

◦ Generate a set location for filming

◦ Develop mise-en-scène elements in film (costume, set, props, lighting, etc.).
◦ Plan/develop use of audio in film (dialogue, sound effects, music).
◦ Generate a storyboard

◦ Generate a script

4. Production
◦ Create a production company logo.
◦ Film scenes
◦ record Foley audio

5. Post-Production

◦ record voice overs over damaged/poor audio
◦ Edit clips together

◦ add title and credits
◦ Add after effects if needed

◦ re-record anything if needed.

6. Critical Creative Reflection (CCR)
◦ Research CCR production ideas.
◦ create CCR
◦ Edit CCR

SO! LOTS TO GET DONE! But that doesn't mean we can't do it! With proper spacing of project completion, the load will lighten up on me and my partner's little backs. Also, we're starting on week 2 because TECHNICALLY the project has already started. 

nks to an external sLinks to an exte Week 2(1/26-2/1)

• Research, analyze, and discuss with my group film openings from my chosen genre.
• Analyze and discuss credit sequences from films within my chosen genre with group.
• research movie plot examples within my chosen genre.
• summarize my project idea and major inspirations with group.
• Create a project schedule convenient for group, including time for CCR production.

Links to an external site.
 
Week Three (2/2-2/8)

• Meet with group about overall project overview
• Research a media theory to integrate into our project.
• Generate a storyboard
• Generate a script

Links to an external site. 
Week Four (2/9-2/15)

• Develop character for film
•  Find and cast actors for film
• Generate a set location for filming

• Develop mise-en-scène elements in film (costume, set, props, lighting, etc.)
• Plan/develop use of audio in film (dialogue, sound effects, music).

Links to an external site. 
Week Five (2/16-2/22)

• Create a production company logo.
• Film scenes
• record Foley audio

Week Six (2/23-3/1)

• record voice overs over damaged/poor audio
• Edit clips together
• add title and credits
• Add after effects if needed
• re-record anything if needed.

Links to an external site.
Week Seven (3/2-3/8)

•  Research CCR production ideas.
• create CCR
• Edit CCR

Links to an external site. 
Week Eight (3/9-3/17)

• Buffer week

• Finalize everything, make sure everything's done

• Post with links to CCR’s and film opening

!Final post with project links due by 3/17/26!

Links to an external sit

If we stick to this plan and also with the grace week we gave ourselves, we can complete this project with few bumps in the road. Very excited to start!!!

xoxo Andre :)

Portfolio Project Genre #2

 Horror

Another genre I am considering for my portfolio project is Horror. Horror films are designed to provoke fear, tension, and unease in the audience. Unlike genres that rely heavily on action or special effects, horror often focuses on atmosphere, suspense, and psychological impact. This makes it a particularly effective genre for a short film opening, as it can create a strong impression with limited resources.

Target Audience:

- Teenagers

- Young Adults

- Thriller enjoyers

Horror is particularly popular around Younger audiences because it allows them to experience fear in a controlled environment. Horror film producers use this boy marketing horror films directly to teens and young adults through social media and trailers.

Genre Conventions with Content:

Horror content conventions often focus on danger, mystery, and the unknown. Stories frequently involve isolated settings which increase the sense of vulnerability. Horror openings typically avoid revealing too much, instead introducing a threat gradually to build suspense. Common themes include fear of the unknown, isolation, and survival. By withholding information and creating unanswered questions, horror films encourage audiences to stay engaged and anticipate what will happen next.

Genre Conventions with Techniques:

The horror genre relies heavily on technical elements rather than complex visuals. Lighting is often low-key to create shadows and obscure details, which adds to the feeling of unease. Camera work commonly includes close-ups to capture fear or discomfort, as well as slow movements that build tension. Editing is usually slower than in action genres, allowing suspense to develop naturally. Sound design is one of the most important techniques in horror, using silence, ambient noise, or sudden sounds to shock or unsettle the audience. 

Institutional Conventions:

Horror films are marketed using dark color palettes, minimalistic designs, and disturbing imagery. Posters and trailers often suggest fear rather than showing it directly, relying on mystery to attract audiences. The narrative image usually presents characters as vulnerable and ordinary, making the threat feel more realistic and frightening. Horror films are often produced on lower budgets than other genres, which demonstrates that strong storytelling and atmosphere can be more important than expensive effects.

Popular Horror production Examples:

- Scream

- Blair Witch Project

Portfolio Project Genre #1

Adventure

One possible genre i'm considering for my portfolio project is Adventure. Adventure films are typically exciting fast-paced and focused on characters going on journeys, quests, or any type of missions This genre expects creativity in story telling to create an exciting journey for the Main Characters while still being understandable and engaging for a wide audience.

Target Audience:

Usually the typical target audience for Adventure films are...

- Teenagers

- Young Adults

- Sometimes Families

- People who enjoy escapism

Viewers of the Genre enjoy being taken to new places or situations that are different from everyday life  but usually, the Adventure genere is enjoyed equally throughout all age groups and genders (18-35)

Genre Conventions with Content:

Adventure films usually follow a clear narrative structure that focuses on a journey or quest. The story often centers on a protagonist who is given a mission or goal, such as finding a lost object, escaping danger, or discovering a new world. Along the way, the character faces obstacles that test their courage, intelligence, or loyalty. Themes commonly explored in adventure films include bravery, togetherness, survival, and self-discovery. In film openings, adventure narratives often establish the main character and hint at the larger journey ahead, creating intrigue and excitement for the audience.

Genre Conventions with Techniques

Adventure films rely on cinematic techniques that emphasize scale and movement. Camera work often includes wide shots to establish locations and show the new fun and exciting environment the characters are exploring. Editing tends to be faster paced to maintain excitement particularly during action sequences. Music also plays an important role in setting the tone, often using dramatic or uplifting music to highlight moments of danger or triumph. Music can also play a big role in depicting a new location, as more intense music can depict the transition between the regular world vs. this new world characters are exploring.

Institutional Conventions:

Adventure films are marketed as exciting, high-energy experiences. Posters and trailers usually focus on action, exotic locations, or dramatic moments to attract audiences. The narrative image often presents the protagonist as heroic or determined, reinforcing the idea of a journey or mission. Adventure films are commonly produced by large studios because they often require higher budgets for locations, props, and action sequences, which influences how the genre is presented to audiences.

Popular examples of Adventure Films:

- Jumanji

- Journey to the Center of the Earth

Music Marketing #2 - Vlog

 https://drive.google.com/file/d/15fibQzbjCp4MPmrdoxHWw6JLsqjMr8xJ/view?usp=drivesdk 

Music Marketing #1

 After learning about the Media Context essay along with it's prompts, formatting, and it's respective vocabulary, we were assigned a Music Marketing Research Project to research a specific music label and two artists under their label as "Case studies." In groups of 4 we were randomly assigned a music genre to research and we all had to focus on different artists. The full instructions were as followed:

1. Your group (groups consist of 4-5 people) will be randomly assigned a music genre.

 

2. Conduct and compile research on the marketing and distribution practices associated with the genre of music:

• Each individual in the group should choose one music production company and two artists/groups represented by each company that represent your assigned genre (if there are numerous artists or groups you wish to research that are all represented by the same production company, that is fine).  The artist/group that you choose must have produced and released music within the past five years.
• Be sure to research modern trends in marketing and distribution, as well as past practices.
• Your case studies should be artists that have released music (a full album is best) within the past five years.

Use the link below to access a blank chart.  Each group member will fill out one chart. Charts should be shared with fellow group members.

We were assigned to the Pop genre. I chose to research the record label Island Records and the artists Sabrina Carpenter and Chappell Roan. I made the following chart:

Music Research Chart - Andreina Dominguez.docx

During research, I realized how important partnerships are in terms of building a larger audience and maintaining an original target audience. I found it interesting how Sabrina Carpenter partnered with a masculine whiskey brand to appeal more to older male audience, as her target audience is mostly 18-24 year old girls. It was genius as it kept to her brand, as she's partnered with alcohol brands before, promoted her music, all while expanding her audience. Partnerships were also a great way to establish brand identity as Chappell Roan, known for her outlandish, drag-inspired makeup looks, partnered with Sephora to match her brand. These insights helped us plan for the park 2 of our music Marketing project, creating our OWN brand through a music artist/group.

Our group was given 4 songs to choose from that was part of the music genre we researched (we ended up picking the song "We are Young") and from those songs, we had to Create a marketing campaign for a new music artist/group. We were tasked to build the brand from the bottom up and use this marketing campaign to introduce our musician(s) to the public.

Our group decided on a sort of 2016-inspired boy group, focused on living in the moment and having fun, living solely by the moto "YOLO." Our groups brand aesthetic is focused on the boy bands "One Direction" and "5 seconds of summer" making various promotional videos to bring back the 2010's aesthetic, riding on the wave that is the 2010's aesthetic coming back on especially Tik Tok. They'd use Tik Tok to create raw, fun content to attract teen to young adult female audiences. Instagram, a PINNACLE of the 2010's aesthetic would be used not only to promote their music, but bring back the same aesthetic that seemingly everyone had back in the 2010s. 

Our band's aesthetic is very casual, but also beachy , as they're all california boys and the beach is a major part of their brand. Think "Cake by the Ocean" by DNCE type of aesthetic. Ripped jeans, jean jackets, stripped shirts and checkered vans at the beach. Here's a Pinterest board of the aesthetic/brand they're trying to portray:

https://pin.it/71JcHFqnE 

Mise-en-scene Multimedia Project

Summary of Activity

 This week, we were given a fun little activity called "Multimedia Mise-en-scene." In this project, we were assigned a prompt of a character we had to develop. In groups we had to include: 

• Description of character (don’t forget to give your character a name)
• A mood board for the character (must include at least 10 elements)
• A representation of a chosen setting for the character. This setting should directly relate to the character and include elements that further develop the character (think about colors, fabrics, objects, etc.).
• Audio elements that represent the character. This could be a song – or series of songs – background music to create a mood, stings.
• Tactile representations of your character. This should be something visitors to your station can touch and feel. 

Within our groups we had to discuss how we would develop this character through their physical representations (appearance, costuming, makeup, etc.), setting, and audio that would be associated with the character. 

in our group we were assigned this character description:

"Driven by a thirst for knowledge and adventure this character seeks out new experiences and uncovers hidden truths. Their curiosiy often leads them into unexpected situations though..."

During presentation day, we only had 7-8 minutes to represent our entire character through our station, so we had to get creative!

Our Character

With our description, we decided to go for an adventurous girl, much like Lara Croft from Tomb Raider or a girl version of Indiana Jones. We settled on this description:

Quick brief description: 

    The representation of the character is a 22 year old woman who’s name is Rhia Wildur. She is in a jungle looking for the legendary golden treasure box. She has a pet monkey named Rufus. He is an emotional support animal and she takes him everywhere. She encountered trouble during her adventure but it ended well for her.

• Appearance: Hair in a bun with strands of hair framing face, tall, built, toned in body, lean, rugged appearance. Brown hair with golden highlights, green eyes, freckles, sun-kissed olive skin tone. 

• Costuming: Brown combat boots with dark green khaki shorts, brown belt with satchel, map attached to satchel. Dirty off white button up shirt. Backpack with brown monkey on shoulder. Hand belt on arm with a knife.

• Makeup: Scars on her face and she’s dirty 

• Setting: deep jungle setting looking for a mysterious ancient tomb

• Character’s bedroom or most utilized space: tent with maps, books, scholarly papers, lit by a candle, its messy and used for research, where she sleeps and uncovers mystery. 

• Audio: Background music of the jungle similar to temple run music. Animals in the background as well. Mysterious music whenever she uncovers a secret about the tomb, whenever she encounters trouble intense music is played.

What We Created

We wanted to create a sort of immersive sound/audio station where the audio would immerse you to AI videos made in the characters point of view, really making you feel like you are the character. These included all of our 3 settings (the tent, the jungle, the temple) with audio pertaining to these settings, same with background music to really sell the fantasy aspect of our character and her world. 

Next, we worked on the mood board, grabbing all elements that inspired her, such as Lara croft, Indiana Jones, and even Ellie from "The Last of Us", and threw it all on a board with other elements that represent her, such as her outfit, her hair, the jungle aesthetic that inspired her, and certain objects we think she would have/use regularly.

After that, we created a quick powerpoint to describe her character and setting more deeply, as we felt what we had wasn't enough for the station. It included the inspiration pictures plus colors that would be associated with that particularly setting. Colors that would be used in the scene if she was being filmed in that particular setting. 

https://www.canva.com/design/DAG2kCyWGK8/VqLj2QXZhT6M8nF2AxGAWA/edit

Lastly, we had to work on the tangible object. We had been brainstorming the tangible object for the entire project but had complications last minute in doing it, so we had to improvise. At first, the idea was to create a treasure chest with treasure inside but, it didn't work out so we decided to create a page of a letter given to her, a scroll, and a map that were all aged and then to make them look adventerous and rugged. We also decided to include a big bag of treasure with precious stones and jewelry inside, making up for the lack of a treasure chest we had.

Development of Character

When brainstorming the development of our character, we had to use our representation of character lecture, developing character with the following elements:

• Construction - When showing the character, in production we would use a lot of low angle shots with the character when showing the temple to show the power and grand mystery that the temple show, but when showing the character the lighting would probably be moodier when uncovering mystery but intense when she gets into trouble due to the mystery. But mostly, the character would be shown in a lot of yellows, beiges, browns, and cool greens, fitting her adventurous lifestyle.

• Selection - we would make sure to include a lot scenes with her surrounded with books, globes, maps and papers to not only show that shes a character of high intelectual, but to show the amount of studying and dedication she's gone through just to uncover this mystery. Compasses would also be shown a lot, same with backpacks since their linked with travel and discovery.

• Stereotypes - She's depicted as a tomboy, not wearing any makeup and always having her face dirty since she's constantly working tirelessly, not caring about her appearance. There would be a lot of stereotypes in the scenery as well, having the temples be inspired off of mexican/aztec culture, maybe de-centering the culture, and using it to contrast the American Explorer character in a foreign backdrop traveling to find treasure.

Final Reflection

Overall, I believe ve considering the complications that we had throughout the project, it was a great first start. Our teacher told us that most likely, we would be doing things like this again, and i'd definitely love to make my project more interactive and interesting for people to experience. Sure, I'm not 100% satisfied with the outcome and I felt like there were many parts we could've expanded the project more, especially after viewing everyone else's take on the project. But failure is redirection and I learned so much regardless!

https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1hbY6Tp9HhUCiRjLzj8X8-7WMIC-tENxz