But I'd love to see you go a little out of genre and do something a little fresh.
Working on it as we speak!
Unless you want to be seen solely as a comedian.
I did some serious...movies? Clips? hm... long-clips or short-movies in the past. So I've got some degree of experience with "less-laughter more-omg" type of work.
That's why I feel the moment is right to start and share this new project with you awesome people! I really want to know if you guys think I'm able to handle this kind of stuff.
No, decay in horror is widely used. Decaying houses, decaying facilities, etc. are pretty common.
Ah, I understand now.
If you look at Silent Hill for instance
You mean my favorite game-series that is VERY close to dethroning Monkey Island on my top 10 best games ever? Go on...
whenever the town changes and becomes more nightmarish, it turns into a more decayed version of itself. Decay can add a lot to terror and fear, as it can look very unpleasant.
Yes, I always wanted to play around with such visuals. Then again, I'm aiming for something as original as possible. With that said, one can only hope that people will look at a scene and go "AAAAAARGH!!" instead of "Oh, he copied that from silent Hill...ah, is that the scary element? Meh... copycat".
Lovecraftian horror as well uses decay a lot, such as a decaying person or the decaying old port town of Innsmouth.
I've never read Lovecraft, but I did play "Call of Cthulhu: Dark corners of the Earth, which is a masterpiece.
Decay and the supernatural go together like peanut butter and jelly.
I've never had peanut butter and jelly, but I'm sure it's a brilliant combination Yes, I get it. I'll probably use it often, but not as a main theme for the series.
Depends on the era and the character. If it's modern - leather clothing looks great on men and women.
Modern, yes, it's all happening in the present days.
Leather...mmm, it is very used in many movies. You see leather: Oh so that's wither the good guy, the hot chick that will get to be with the good guy, or the bad guy, or the bad chick that will get to be with the good guy or die trying.
What? Isn't that true? Well, ok, maybe I'm exaggerating a bit. :rolleyes: but it is very used in portraying heroes. From Indiana Jones to Wolverine, from Trinity to Arwen (in battle).
I also like Alcore's suggestion of trenchcoats.
I love trenchcoats. I don't think I look good in them, but I love them. I used trenchcoats in LOTR Parody, the way they swoosh when you're fighting someone...brilliant visuals.
The only problem is that everybody who have seen Doctor Who might associate it with the 10th doctor. Even if it's green or black or orange... add a suit and you've got a Doc Who wannabe series.
That or dusters, which can even make the wearer seem sort of eerie or distant - an effect used in Once Upon A Time in the West.
Hm... will look into it.
Having a character wear them outside of a western setting would be rather unique as well.
...if he's +40 years old. My available actors are about 20-28 years old. I'm not sure it would work without looking ridiculous.
Good ideas, though. I'll definitely look into them. In the meantime, I've set up a new poll, so I don't clog up the forums here with ten threads.
With this new poll I'm trying to narrow down the general direction and undertones of the series. Also, people from outside TTG forums will vote on it, so that may give us a broader image of what the fans want.
Aaaaand, question of the day iiis:
It's very difficult, if not impossible, to create an 100% original story. Everybody did or borrowed some elements some time before you. My question is: if you can find common elements with other series, would that totally ruin the story/project?
By that, I don't mean I'm gonna take Picard's Ship or the Tardis and use them outside of their universe...
But if I would have a dude and another dude...and we find that one of them is the other one's father, would you scream "oh em gee he copied star wars, booo!" ? No matter how good the setting/story is?
Probably depends on just how much of a "rip off" it is (or if it's a parody). As you said, just about every plot twist has been done by somebody somewhere. A simple "I am your father" does not a Star Wars ripoff make, without borrowing a few other things as well.
And you could always throw in an "Oh, please, everyone's seen that movie!" response if you're really worried about it.
I am trying to figure out now the visual and music styles which would fit the series best. If you want, you guys can help me choose between these four pictures: http://tinyurl.com/3bv2d2c
Let me know why you chose what you chose. Or maybe don't choose either?
Elements of other series- No, it won't ruin the series.
Music- I like it when the music is synced to the scenes or events happening, or if central musical pieces are applied to the main characters so that you associate that music with those characters. Then again, that's used a lot in spaghetti westerns, and I have a massive hard-on for the music of those movies. The Pirates of the Caribbean movies are also a series that used music in such a way. As far as favorite musical instruments, the ocarina, the harp, the harmonica, the ukelele, and the piano are my favorites. Using an ocarina for instance would naturally make people talk of Zelda, but it's because of that that most people in the US won't touch it. That makes it rarely used, and that gives more opportunities to do something unique with it. The harp, I think, is also underused. The piano is always a cool instrument, especially in spooky situations. Trilby's Notes, the third game in Yahtzee's 5 Days trilogy, used a central piano theme associated with the malevolent creature in the game. There was also a cool scene in the game at one point that etched the song into my head, as an example of good usage. A guy buys a piano connected to the evil spirits in the story. He wakes up in the middle of the night to the piano playing an eerie tune, and then you can go downstairs to see what it is. When you go down there, you find the creature playing his own theme on the piano. It's an eerie and cool moment. So, those are just some ideas I'm throwing out.
The pictures-
#1: I like the place, but the low quality image makes the lighting look bland. It's hard to judge this one.
#2. I love the lighting on this, and with the sharp colors you could really experiment with moods and tones, but I'm worried that it could look too fake or digital. Then again, I have a hard-on for more organic and natural filming. It is definitely interesting, but I'm not sure what I think of it. The contrast is rather extreme, and a bit unnatural, but that depends on what you're going for. I could see it in a Tim Burton film, but hmm...touch call.
#3. I really love this one. It reminds me of the video game Scratches actually. I LOVE the lighting. I love the look of the place. I love the light coming in from the windows. I love everything about this one. It's very natural, but also very good looking. It also feels very foreign and out of time, as if you could have stepped into it from any place or time.
#4. I really love this one as well. While it does use a similar look to the 2nd picture, it's much more organic, and it looks less digital. I also love the use of green everywhere, with the natural look of the earth and foliage, and the overhanging green. That's something I think I've grown fond of from Japanese horror somehow, although I'm not sure where. I liked the green in the 2nd picture as well, but this picture just makes it look much much better. I don't know why, but green foliage everywhere mixed with the spooky has always felt good to me atmospherically, although I rarely see it. I think somehow a combo of this and #3 is my favorite of the pictures.
Really, though, I wouldn't worry a great deal about looking like a copycat. In fact, saying that this or that or this was an inspiration on your series, or such can actually add to viewer interest. Do I seem excited for this series? Because I am.
Elements of other series- No, it won't ruin the series.
Oh, cool! *steals Star Trek scripts*
Music- I like it when the music is synced to the scenes or events happening, or if central musical pieces are applied to the main characters so that you associate that music with those characters.
Character Themes - Check!
Then again, that's used a lot in spaghetti westerns, and I have a massive hard-on for the music of those movies.
It's used in plenty of films! Mainly in adventure films, not just Westerns.
As far as favorite musical instruments, the ocarina, the harp, the harmonica, the ukelele, and the piano are my favorites.
I've never listened to ukulele.
*listens to clips on youtube*
It's brilliant! If you know how to play it...:rolleyes:
Hm, I'm not sure I have the skill to mimic that specific... brilliancy. Good to know, though.
I can assure you that piano is on my top list. I miss using piano in my latest stuff. So piano is a must. Ocarina feels a bit too plain to be effective in a Scifi show. As for the harp, maybe a few "pinches" here and there, but not as a main instrument. not sure yet.
I'm looking for a combination that will help people recognize the series just by listening to the music.
Using an ocarina for instance would naturally make people talk of Zelda
That's what I'm looking for with the series. An instrument that can become "typical" for the theme.
(...)and that gives more opportunities to do something unique with it. The harp, I think, is also underused.
I can say the same thing about the Koto in European movies or the French Horns in dramas. As unique as it would be, it also has to fit.
But I will keep them in mind.
The piano is always a cool instrument (...)Trilby's Notes (...) It's an eerie and cool moment. So, those are just some ideas I'm throwing out.
I also applied for musician on the crew that worked on a full 3D re-make of the series. Sadly, the project died before I could get an answer.
The pictures
Bring it on!
#1: I like the place, but the low quality image makes the lighting look bland. It's hard to judge this one.
I always analyze responses on multiple levels, therefore I do not choose my questions or examples randomly.
In other words, your response was noted.
#2. I love the lighting on this (...) depends on what you're going for. I could see it in a Tim Burton film(...)
Being a SciFi I need to figure out in which direction I'm going. Should I make it look natural? should I make it look unnatural? What are the best options...what am I aiming for...
All this cross-referenced with what you guys want to see give me a clearer picture.
#3. I really love this one(...)
Hmmm...ok. Noted.
It reminds me of the video game Scratches actually.
I never liked games in which I had to click to move around through "pictures". I like my games either 3D or 2D. Not that weird combination.
But I heard it was a very good game.
#4. I really love this one as well. While it does use a similar look to the 2nd picture, it's much more organic, and it looks less digital.
Intriguing, since this one has a LOT of digital post-effects in it.
Sooo... I'm starting to see a way in which I can combine natural with unnatural lights(aka digital post-effects). Aha, brilliant!
Really, though, I wouldn't worry a great deal about looking like a copycat. In fact, saying that this or that or this was an inspiration on your series, or such can actually add to viewer interest.
Hm... you're right. I must find an equilibrium in all this. I'm usually inspired by music but in case I hit any major similarities, I'll know what to do. Thanks!
Do I seem excited for this series? Because I am.
Really? Oh, awesome! That makes me happy!
I have posted a new mini-test for you guys, this time involving clips.
I'm interested in what you think of the visuals. Not the story, not the sounds or the editing or the ideas bla bla. Just visuals.
Thanks to everyone who replied and who voted on the poll.
We have narrowed it down... things are starting to shape up... This is going really well! Surprisingly well actually!
New Brainstorming Session soon... time to choose the names for our main characters. Maybe you want to help? any favorite names?
For the visuals I like the last one the best because I felt like it had the clearest picture of all of them and did night shots very well. I don't know if that's what you're looking for, but that's what I thought.
I also applied for musician on the crew that worked on a full 3D re-make of the series. Sadly, the project died before I could get an answer.
Cool tribute. I'm definitely sad that that project died though. It looked promising.
Being a SciFi I need to figure out in which direction I'm going. Should I make it look natural? should I make it look unnatural? What are the best options...what am I aiming for...
I think both natural and unnatural should be looked into. However, both can be achieved through non-digital means. It really depends on how unnatural you want things to be. If you want ultra-unnatural, you'll probably end up needing to use digital means in one way or another. However, if you want subtlety, fridge horror or similar tropes, then non-digital means are usually more effective.
Intriguing, since this one has a LOT of digital post-effects in it.
Sooo... I'm starting to see a way in which I can combine natural with unnatural lights(aka digital post-effects). Aha, brilliant!
Aye, that image does have those effects, but it looks natural at the same time.
I have posted a new mini-test for you guys, this time involving clips.
I'm interested in what you think of the visuals. Not the story, not the sounds or the editing or the ideas bla bla. Just visuals.
I liked the first and the last ones the best. The middle two didn't feel real at all, especially the second one. The second one might work for a comic book movie, but even so, it was filled with ugly lighting. The first one has my second favorite lighting, although it was very muted. The camera shook a bit in it though, which I didn't really like. The fps was also a bit fast, I thought. Just a tad uncinematic because of that. The last one had the best shots, definitely. It also had the best lighting, and I also loved Day and Night City Life by them. Again, the camera shook a bit sometimes, and I thought the fps was a tad fast, but then again I'm used to fawning over slower shots, and that's probably not for everyone. Overall, HiiDefinitions work was the best out of what you showed.
Holy shit. That blew my ever-frakking-loving mind.
Gracias. Glad you liked it!
Well, my friends, your comments were very nice, heart warming...and totally irrelevant to the test! It's a test! Criticize it! (kidding, kidding )
Ok, so as far as I understand, the effects and atmosphere were good. Okay, let's hope we can maintain that quality in the actual show (which, by the way, won't have breaking walls and stuff... that was just for the test).
Here's what I want to tackle next. People (mostly friends) keep asking me about tackling a serious role. Since I am going to do that in the SciFi Series, let's put me to the test, shall we?
I'd like to test out (I sound like GLaDOS) five things:
- Acting
- Singing
- Lighting
- General Atmosphere (again)
- If acting impairs my singing OR if singing impairs my acting...
Let me explain the last one a bit. I know my voice is not great for singing. I'd like to see if the acting + editing can overcome that.
Then again, I'd like to see if the singing aids my ability to act a scene. The flow of emotions, the timing, the expressions etc etc.
Basically, it's a "tighter" test... either I make it cool and epic...or a total fail and laughing matter. Some people asked for the SciFi/horror to be a musical. We're gonna test that to see if it could work.
Jekyll and Hyde, a classic.
I bet I could do that song all by myself. No greenscreen. No tricks.
All based on acting.
Record it vocally in one take, no pauses... then film it and lipsync to my own words.
The SciFi being a filmed series and not a theatre play, I can focus more on editing and atmosphere, rather than a full stage interpretation. I'm not trying to show off, I'm testing things to see how far can we go with this. That's why I'd go with lipsync-ing, while keeping the idea of a full recording.
I just need to find a setting and perhaps a nice good-looking costume to go with it. Nothing fancy, just something to keep the atmosphere.
What do you think?
Oh and...sideburns? Beard? Completely shaved? Haircut?
The SciFi being a filmed series and not a theatre play, I can focus more on editing and atmosphere, rather than a full stage interpretation. I'm not trying to show off, I'm testing things to see how far can we go with this. That's why I'd go with lipsync-ing, while keeping the idea of a full recording.
Maybe it's because I've always been a singer myself, but I can't see how lip-syncing a song would be easier than just singing it during the action, as if you were live in the theater. I guess I'd have to see the final cut. Bad lip-syncing is really easy to spot and very annoying, so you'd have to be very good at it, or do a lot of editing, or get shots where we can't actually see your mouth.
Depends if you're playing Ben from Full Throttle, or Captain Picard. Though you'll have a lot of work to do to match Patrick Stewart in the singing department.
If this is just a test, I'd say don't do anything drastic hair-wise yet. Leave that decision for the real take.
I don't fully understand what you're asking, SWP. Are you asking for a location and a costume for the test?
As far as a look, I don't know. Whatever suits the character in the show. I really like your beard, and I'm honestly used to it by now as a part of your character as an actor, but if you're really wanting to drastically branch out, the beard and long hair could go. It would definitely make you look quite different than we've ever seen you, but I'm not sure you'd be willing to do something so drastic just to be...well...drastic, and I'm not sure it's really necessary.
Maybe it's because I've always been a singer myself, but I can't see how lip-syncing a song would be easier than just singing it during the action, as if you were live in the theater.
I never said it was easier ...but I don't have money for a good lavalier.
If I need a wide angle shot and then cut to a close-up, the singing would be messed up, if I did it live.
I guess I'd have to see the final cut.
Funny thing about final cuts... I always see them before I actually make them. They're in my braaaain o.O
Bad lip-syncing is really easy to spot and very annoying, so you'd have to be very good at it, or do a lot of editing, or get shots where we can't actually see your mouth.
Well, we can look for that in the test as well. It would be cool if you could be the "critic on lip-sync" for me on this one.
It's always awesome to learn from people with greater experience.
Depends if you're playing Ben from Full Throttle, or Captain Picard. Though you'll have a lot of work to do to match Patrick Stewart in the singing department.
Sadly, my genes didn't help here. No singers in the family, whatsoever.
Funny you should mention Captain Picard.
If this is just a test, I'd say don't do anything drastic hair-wise yet. Leave that decision for the real take.
Hair-wise...probably not. Beard-wise... probably yes. Not sure, though.
I don't fully understand what you're asking, SWP. Are you asking for a location and a costume for the test?
I'm just sharing ideas with you guys. I'm not really asking anything specific on this one, maybe just ideas for a beard-style or maybe a representation on how you would see the clothing for this character/scene.
Anything, really... If you have a visual/audio idea that just pops into your head as you are reading or looking at my plans for the next test, just shout it out loud, don't keep it to yourself.
It's sort of like a passive brainstorming session.
As far as a look, I don't know. Whatever suits the character in the show.
Hm... I'll try to improvise something.
I really like your beard, and I'm honestly used to it by now as a part of your character as an actor
All my recent roles (including Guybrush) needed the beard. I can honestly say, I love my beard very much, but it is becoming really uncomfortable.
I can safely assume that in the SciFi series I will shave it completely.
but if you're really wanting to drastically branch out, the beard and long hair could go.
My hair?! No! I love my hair! Haha! Maybe adjust it, but not shave it.
It would definitely make you look quite different than we've ever seen you, but I'm not sure you'd be willing to do something so drastic just to be...well...drastic, and I'm not sure it's really necessary.
Since it is a test, I don't expect my look to be a drastic change from the "usual". In the SciFi series I may cut my hair a little shorter than it is now and, as I said, I will shave my beard. Mostly for comfort.
I considered dying my hair once (for a Death Note Tribute)...but I don't want to destroy it o.O ...though I like throwing ideas around.
I think your brother would make a great L. I was actually thinking when you did the Silent Hill tribute/test that a Chzo Mythos tribute/test would be really neat. That's um, that's basically my suggestion. Then all you'd need is a trilby, a black vest, a white suit shirt, and grey dress pants. Plus with your hair, and a shave, I think you could make a great Trilby.
... yes. That is my only input on this whole thing. Whatever you do acting-wise is sure to be great. Just keep the beard. It suits you.
I'm not sure that she would like to be referred to as "it". Anyway, I say keep your beard; at least until you're prepared to come out of the closet Sir.
I'm not sure that she would like to be referred to as "it". Anyway, I say keep your beard; at least until you're prepared to come out of the closet Sir.
Oh, sorry. Erm, keep the beard Silverwolfpet. She looks good on you.
I never said it was easier ...but I don't have money for a good lavalier.
If I need a wide angle shot and then cut to a close-up, the singing would be messed up, if I did it live.
Now, see, that's why I asked if you had a budget, earlier. Though you still could sing live with multiple shots without the wireless microphone. Just don't always start from the top. Sing a few lines from the previous shot to get the hang of it and back into the rhythm, and edit those out afterward. With some overlap from the shots, you'll also have a little leeway if you think later that you really should have cut to the next shot a couple of seconds earlier or later than you originally thought.
If you're trying for a "The Matrix"-like effect of spinning the scene around while singing, this does become a bit more difficult, of course. Then, even I might not notice the lip-synching, though, being a bit too dizzy.
My bro thanks you very much for the comment. He loves that character! We were planning on doing one of the "blue/red" scenes, but we weren't sure we could make them epic enough.
I was actually thinking when you did the Silent Hill tribute/test that a Chzo Mythos tribute/test would be really neat. That's um, that's basically my suggestion. Then all you'd need is a trilby, a black vest, a white suit shirt, and grey dress pants. Plus with your hair, and a shave, I think you could make a great Trilby.
Thanks Funny thing, 2 years ago we started pre-production on the Chzo Mythos, but we didn't get too far when we put everything on paper.
We needed a huge house and nobody would just lend us one... not to mention that my English skills were not so great then.
Till this day, I cannot really pull a great British accent. It would've probably ruin the scenes I do look great in a vest though.
I'm not sure that she would like to be referred to as "it". Anyway, I say keep your beard; at least until you're prepared to come out of the closet Sir.
And once again, my so called English skills fail me.
I really didn't get the last sentence, my bad! Maybe I'm just tired and I'm missing the joke. sorry
Oh, sorry. Erm, keep the beard Silverwolfpet. She looks good on you.
Haha, stop calling it "she"! It's weird!
Tell you what, if it's necessary, I'll keep the beard for the Jekyll-Hyde test.
But in most drawings and representations, Jekyll had no beard. Maybe only mutton chops.
Now, see, that's why I asked if you had a budget, earlier.
Ah! I zee.
No, I don't. Not that type of budget
Though you still could sing live with multiple shots without the wireless microphone. (...)
Thanks for the advice.
I think people will notice the difference from one shot to another, especially if I film it in a large room, the echo will sound awkward at times.
We'll see.
How about this:
Cape or no cape?
I was thinking a white shirt (1700s style) with black cape (like judges used to wear, you know? With a little chain that kept it from opening).
When I envision Jekyll and Hyde, I think of Hyde having a cape and Jekyll not. That might just be my 21st century American view of it, though. It would make it easy to tell which part you're playing at the moment, though.
Awkward echoes make singing sound more realistic and less like a music video.
And once again, my so called English skills fail me.
I really didn't get the last sentence, my bad! Maybe I'm just tired and I'm missing the joke. sorry
Oops, sorry mate. Check out the 'concealing sexual orientation' section in the link below so that you're in on the joke...
When I envision Jekyll and Hyde, I think of Hyde having a cape and Jekyll not. That might just be my 21st century American view of it, though. It would make it easy to tell which part you're playing at the moment, though.
Hm... I'll see if I can work that in the test. I may work more on facial expressions and voice-changes to define each character.
Awkward echoes make singing sound more realistic and less like a music video.
I would need to be an expert on acoustics and sound-tech in general. Which I am not. However, I like this idea!
Maybe in the future I will use it in a project. It is worth testing! Thanks!
I'm with Trackah123 on that, although I like the color scheme in that photo as is. I also liked the one with the vignette, but mostly because the lighting in it is so awesome and atmospheric.
Ah, you brought back memories with that La Jolla photo. I had a special time with an ex-girlfriend there once. Anyway, don't use an actual La Jolla scene, or I won't be paying attention to you.
I like the second and third ones best (aside from the fact that it's La Jolla). For Jekyll and Hyde, I think it will work best in black & white, unless you're going to try something like making Hyde's face redder than Jekyll's.
I'm with Trackah123 on that, although I like the color scheme in that photo as is. I also liked the one with the vignette, but mostly because the lighting in it is so awesome and atmospheric.
Ah, you brought back memories with that La Jolla photo. I had a special time with an ex-girlfriend there once. Anyway, don't use an actual La Jolla scene, or I won't be paying attention to you.
I like the second and third ones best (aside from the fact that it's La Jolla). For Jekyll and Hyde, I think it will work best in black & white, unless you're going to try something like making Hyde's face redder than Jekyll's.
Aha...good....mmmhmm....
Okay!
Costume, colors, sideburns are settled.
What about the actual location? Where do you think I could film this? Keep it rational aka don't tell me "In a castle". I'm in the middle of a city.
by the way, in case you missed it, I just announced that I finished the sound effects for the LOTr Parody and more than 50% of the soundtrack Getting closeeeer!
How about a cobblestone street at night, around streetlamps, sort of like the setting during the song Singin in the Rain. The memorable scene from the novel where Hyde kills a man was on a street in the middle of the night, and I love the visual of someone like Hyde lurking around at night near murky alleyways. Plus that sort of setting works great for lighting and atmosphere, and since you won't really be singing, from what I gather, while filming, you probably won't disturb anyone.
Ah, I hadn't thought about the "bothering others" aspect, so I guess I shouldn't suggest you do it in a library.
There's kind of an allure to doing this in "the bad part of town", with run-down buildings in the background. However, you would have to work to keep your camera from being stolen. Most likely, anyplace that doesn't look too modern is fine. Avoid huge distracting things that take away attention from what the scene is supposed to be about.
How about a cobblestone street at night, around streetlamps, sort of like the setting during the song Singin in the Rain. The memorable scene from the novel where Hyde kills a man was on a street in the middle of the night, and I love the visual of someone like Hyde lurking around at night near murky alleyways. Plus that sort of setting works great for lighting and atmosphere, and since you won't really be singing, from what I gather, while filming, you probably won't disturb anyone.
I'd love to do that. Unfortunately, I would strongly dislike to be robbed.
I think I'll probably use an interior BUT I will keep in mind your "lamps" idea...maybe I can combine the elements, somehow. I like the lamps idea... Hmmm *wheels spinning in head*
Ah, I hadn't thought about the "bothering others" aspect, so I guess I shouldn't suggest you do it in a library.
Oh...I completely didn't think of that, hahaha! True...library is kind of ...off limits.
There's kind of an allure to doing this in "the bad part of town", with run-down buildings in the background. However, you would have to work to keep your camera from being stolen.
My point exactly
Most likely, anyplace that doesn't look too modern is fine.
Hm, ok...so lamps...and not modern...aha... good!
Avoid huge distracting things that take away attention from what the scene is supposed to be about.
ACK! Don't sneak up on me like that!
Geez! I'm working my butt off here!! )))
Okay, I think I have every info I need. One last HUGE and IMPORTANT question!
The voice.... Jekyll is easy, soft, vulnerable, blabla...
But Hyde? Everybody playing Hyde uses a low, rough voice... What if I take that to a new dimension? A broken, high voice?
If I were to imagine a modern day Hyde, I'd picture him being an eccentric, alcoholic, spontaniously violent (like switching from being calm and forward almost friendly, but cold and biting in his language, to loud, aggressive and almost savagely violent (incredibly violent, but not to the point where he loses control. He can still manipulate and plan)).
Stylistically I'd make his first person parts a bit shaky, with light static noises and the occcasional close slow motion focus on an odd sound effect, (like chinking of metal, buzzing of a bug, the scribbling of the pen), that makes him comment on it, most of the time out of context.
(Maybe over time make Jekyl gradually experience similar behaviour)
Maybe he could have the cape, but only he sees it.
(Sort of like a fight-club like projection. We get clued in on it, by the cape passing through something that should have snagged it (that would be a great effect! XD))
Also a higher voice could work. Maybe make Jekyl sound a little apathetic, and make Hyde sound excitable.
(So in a nutshell, make a Hyde with some characteristics that Jekyl lacks but subconciously wants, but at the price of negative and unpredictable characteristics caused by creating a whole new personality he has little control over)
(I'd like to point out I haven't bothered to read through this thread, so if I am completely out here, then please disregard my post)
EDIT:
I just thought of something else pretty freaky but cool.
One could add to the Jekyl hilucinations by making those close-ups look like a video camera recording (with the timestamps, motion blur, static ect) so its like he's literally watching someone else's experiences.
The Jaffar example you provided is a good route to take I think. This clip from the tremendous BBC comedy Psychoville also provides some good examples of high-pitched evil types...
Comments
Thanks!
Working on it as we speak!
I did some serious...movies? Clips? hm... long-clips or short-movies in the past. So I've got some degree of experience with "less-laughter more-omg" type of work.
That's why I feel the moment is right to start and share this new project with you awesome people! I really want to know if you guys think I'm able to handle this kind of stuff.
Ummm...as I said, too much Doctor Who. But some form of coat might be necessary, even if it's just a jacket.
I'm gonna saaaaay.... no.
Ah good, I really don't wanna dress up like a drunk parrot. They have horrible tastes.
Ah, I understand now.
You mean my favorite game-series that is VERY close to dethroning Monkey Island on my top 10 best games ever? Go on...
Yes, I always wanted to play around with such visuals. Then again, I'm aiming for something as original as possible. With that said, one can only hope that people will look at a scene and go "AAAAAARGH!!" instead of "Oh, he copied that from silent Hill...ah, is that the scary element? Meh... copycat".
I've never read Lovecraft, but I did play "Call of Cthulhu: Dark corners of the Earth, which is a masterpiece.
I've never had peanut butter and jelly, but I'm sure it's a brilliant combination
Modern, yes, it's all happening in the present days.
Leather...mmm, it is very used in many movies. You see leather: Oh so that's wither the good guy, the hot chick that will get to be with the good guy, or the bad guy, or the bad chick that will get to be with the good guy or die trying.
What? Isn't that true?
I love trenchcoats. I don't think I look good in them, but I love them. I used trenchcoats in LOTR Parody, the way they swoosh when you're fighting someone...brilliant visuals.
The only problem is that everybody who have seen Doctor Who might associate it with the 10th doctor. Even if it's green or black or orange... add a suit and you've got a Doc Who wannabe series.
Hm... will look into it.
...if he's +40 years old. My available actors are about 20-28 years old. I'm not sure it would work without looking ridiculous.
Good ideas, though. I'll definitely look into them. In the meantime, I've set up a new poll, so I don't clog up the forums here with ten threads.
With this new poll I'm trying to narrow down the general direction and undertones of the series. Also, people from outside TTG forums will vote on it, so that may give us a broader image of what the fans want.
Aaaaand, question of the day iiis:
It's very difficult, if not impossible, to create an 100% original story. Everybody did or borrowed some elements some time before you. My question is: if you can find common elements with other series, would that totally ruin the story/project?
By that, I don't mean I'm gonna take Picard's Ship or the Tardis and use them outside of their universe...
But if I would have a dude and another dude...and we find that one of them is the other one's father, would you scream "oh em gee he copied star wars, booo!" ? No matter how good the setting/story is?
And you could always throw in an "Oh, please, everyone's seen that movie!" response if you're really worried about it.
I am trying to figure out now the visual and music styles which would fit the series best. If you want, you guys can help me choose between these four pictures:
http://tinyurl.com/3bv2d2c
Let me know why you chose what you chose. Or maybe don't choose either?
Music- I like it when the music is synced to the scenes or events happening, or if central musical pieces are applied to the main characters so that you associate that music with those characters. Then again, that's used a lot in spaghetti westerns, and I have a massive hard-on for the music of those movies. The Pirates of the Caribbean movies are also a series that used music in such a way. As far as favorite musical instruments, the ocarina, the harp, the harmonica, the ukelele, and the piano are my favorites. Using an ocarina for instance would naturally make people talk of Zelda, but it's because of that that most people in the US won't touch it. That makes it rarely used, and that gives more opportunities to do something unique with it. The harp, I think, is also underused. The piano is always a cool instrument, especially in spooky situations. Trilby's Notes, the third game in Yahtzee's 5 Days trilogy, used a central piano theme associated with the malevolent creature in the game. There was also a cool scene in the game at one point that etched the song into my head, as an example of good usage. A guy buys a piano connected to the evil spirits in the story. He wakes up in the middle of the night to the piano playing an eerie tune, and then you can go downstairs to see what it is. When you go down there, you find the creature playing his own theme on the piano. It's an eerie and cool moment. So, those are just some ideas I'm throwing out.
The pictures-
#1: I like the place, but the low quality image makes the lighting look bland. It's hard to judge this one.
#2. I love the lighting on this, and with the sharp colors you could really experiment with moods and tones, but I'm worried that it could look too fake or digital. Then again, I have a hard-on for more organic and natural filming. It is definitely interesting, but I'm not sure what I think of it. The contrast is rather extreme, and a bit unnatural, but that depends on what you're going for. I could see it in a Tim Burton film, but hmm...touch call.
#3. I really love this one. It reminds me of the video game Scratches actually. I LOVE the lighting. I love the look of the place. I love the light coming in from the windows. I love everything about this one. It's very natural, but also very good looking. It also feels very foreign and out of time, as if you could have stepped into it from any place or time.
#4. I really love this one as well. While it does use a similar look to the 2nd picture, it's much more organic, and it looks less digital. I also love the use of green everywhere, with the natural look of the earth and foliage, and the overhanging green. That's something I think I've grown fond of from Japanese horror somehow, although I'm not sure where. I liked the green in the 2nd picture as well, but this picture just makes it look much much better. I don't know why, but green foliage everywhere mixed with the spooky has always felt good to me atmospherically, although I rarely see it. I think somehow a combo of this and #3 is my favorite of the pictures.
Really, though, I wouldn't worry a great deal about looking like a copycat. In fact, saying that this or that or this was an inspiration on your series, or such can actually add to viewer interest. Do I seem excited for this series? Because I am.
Oh, cool! *steals Star Trek scripts*
Character Themes - Check!
It's used in plenty of films! Mainly in adventure films, not just Westerns.
I've never listened to ukulele.
*listens to clips on youtube*
It's brilliant! If you know how to play it...:rolleyes:
Hm, I'm not sure I have the skill to mimic that specific... brilliancy. Good to know, though.
I can assure you that piano is on my top list. I miss using piano in my latest stuff. So piano is a must. Ocarina feels a bit too plain to be effective in a Scifi show. As for the harp, maybe a few "pinches" here and there, but not as a main instrument. not sure yet.
I'm looking for a combination that will help people recognize the series just by listening to the music.
That's what I'm looking for with the series.
I can say the same thing about the Koto in European movies or the French Horns in dramas. As unique as it would be, it also has to fit.
But I will keep them in mind.
I LOVE The Chzo Mythos Games. I even brought a tribute to them long ago, when I had my very very very old electric piano.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k2uGgCn1F7Y
I also applied for musician on the crew that worked on a full 3D re-make of the series. Sadly, the project died before I could get an answer.
Bring it on!
I always analyze responses on multiple levels, therefore I do not choose my questions or examples randomly.
In other words, your response was noted.
Being a SciFi I need to figure out in which direction I'm going. Should I make it look natural? should I make it look unnatural? What are the best options...what am I aiming for...
All this cross-referenced with what you guys want to see give me a clearer picture.
Hmmm...ok. Noted.
I never liked games in which I had to click to move around through "pictures". I like my games either 3D or 2D. Not that weird combination.
But I heard it was a very good game.
Intriguing, since this one has a LOT of digital post-effects in it.
Sooo... I'm starting to see a way in which I can combine natural with unnatural lights(aka digital post-effects). Aha, brilliant!
Hm... you're right. I must find an equilibrium in all this. I'm usually inspired by music but in case I hit any major similarities, I'll know what to do. Thanks!
Really?
I have posted a new mini-test for you guys, this time involving clips.
I'm interested in what you think of the visuals. Not the story, not the sounds or the editing or the ideas bla bla. Just visuals.
Here it is: http://silverwolfpet.com/2011/04/new-brainstorming-session/
Thanks to everyone who replied and who voted on the poll.
We have narrowed it down... things are starting to shape up... This is going really well! Surprisingly well actually!
New Brainstorming Session soon... time to choose the names for our main characters. Maybe you want to help? any favorite names?
Tho i chose Sci-fi because its my favourite genre, you are more the type for Comedy as seen in your previous made movies
I would seriously love to see you as the crazy Doc of BTTF. that would be hilarious. A perfect mix of comedy and sci-fi together
And good luck with the new project, if you need anything you know where to reach me (and no, not in space
Cool tribute. I'm definitely sad that that project died though. It looked promising.
I think both natural and unnatural should be looked into. However, both can be achieved through non-digital means. It really depends on how unnatural you want things to be. If you want ultra-unnatural, you'll probably end up needing to use digital means in one way or another. However, if you want subtlety, fridge horror or similar tropes, then non-digital means are usually more effective.
Aye, that image does have those effects, but it looks natural at the same time.
I liked the first and the last ones the best. The middle two didn't feel real at all, especially the second one. The second one might work for a comic book movie, but even so, it was filled with ugly lighting. The first one has my second favorite lighting, although it was very muted. The camera shook a bit in it though, which I didn't really like. The fps was also a bit fast, I thought. Just a tad uncinematic because of that. The last one had the best shots, definitely. It also had the best lighting, and I also loved Day and Night City Life by them. Again, the camera shook a bit sometimes, and I thought the fps was a tad fast, but then again I'm used to fawning over slower shots, and that's probably not for everyone. Overall, HiiDefinitions work was the best out of what you showed.
I'm not asking you anything this time... just tell me anything you feel like telling me. I don't want to influence any of you on this one.
The atmosphere I thought was perfect and the music fit it.
I voted Sci-Fi and I agree with the above.
By the way, I tought your test footage was outstanding. Why you've not been snapped up by Hollywood is beyond me.
...oh, that's right, they favour the creatively devoid!
Naw, it just lacks explosions. And boobs. But mainly explosions.
Thanks
Not trying to find excuses...but my living room is not very big
Yay
Thanks dude! Thanks a lot!
Haha, they've got people waaay better than I am over there.
I could throw in some boobs in there. Hm...food for thought.
How about exploding boobs? Best of both ideas? Who's with me?
Gracias.
Well, my friends, your comments were very nice, heart warming...and totally irrelevant to the test! It's a test! Criticize it! (kidding, kidding
Ok, so as far as I understand, the effects and atmosphere were good. Okay, let's hope we can maintain that quality in the actual show (which, by the way, won't have breaking walls and stuff... that was just for the test).
Here's what I want to tackle next. People (mostly friends) keep asking me about tackling a serious role. Since I am going to do that in the SciFi Series, let's put me to the test, shall we?
I'd like to test out (I sound like GLaDOS) five things:
- Acting
- Singing
- Lighting
- General Atmosphere (again)
- If acting impairs my singing OR if singing impairs my acting...
Let me explain the last one a bit. I know my voice is not great for singing. I'd like to see if the acting + editing can overcome that.
Then again, I'd like to see if the singing aids my ability to act a scene. The flow of emotions, the timing, the expressions etc etc.
Basically, it's a "tighter" test... either I make it cool and epic...or a total fail and laughing matter. Some people asked for the SciFi/horror to be a musical. We're gonna test that to see if it could work.
I found this two days ago:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Iq_9BdA70c
Jekyll and Hyde, a classic.
I bet I could do that song all by myself. No greenscreen. No tricks.
All based on acting.
Record it vocally in one take, no pauses... then film it and lipsync to my own words.
The SciFi being a filmed series and not a theatre play, I can focus more on editing and atmosphere, rather than a full stage interpretation. I'm not trying to show off, I'm testing things to see how far can we go with this. That's why I'd go with lipsync-ing, while keeping the idea of a full recording.
I just need to find a setting and perhaps a nice good-looking costume to go with it. Nothing fancy, just something to keep the atmosphere.
What do you think?
Oh and...sideburns? Beard? Completely shaved? Haircut?
Maybe it's because I've always been a singer myself, but I can't see how lip-syncing a song would be easier than just singing it during the action, as if you were live in the theater. I guess I'd have to see the final cut. Bad lip-syncing is really easy to spot and very annoying, so you'd have to be very good at it, or do a lot of editing, or get shots where we can't actually see your mouth.
Depends if you're playing Ben from Full Throttle, or Captain Picard. Though you'll have a lot of work to do to match Patrick Stewart in the singing department.
If this is just a test, I'd say don't do anything drastic hair-wise yet. Leave that decision for the real take.
As far as a look, I don't know. Whatever suits the character in the show. I really like your beard, and I'm honestly used to it by now as a part of your character as an actor, but if you're really wanting to drastically branch out, the beard and long hair could go. It would definitely make you look quite different than we've ever seen you, but I'm not sure you'd be willing to do something so drastic just to be...well...drastic, and I'm not sure it's really necessary.
I never said it was easier
If I need a wide angle shot and then cut to a close-up, the singing would be messed up, if I did it live.
Funny thing about final cuts... I always see them before I actually make them. They're in my braaaain o.O
Well, we can look for that in the test as well. It would be cool if you could be the "critic on lip-sync" for me on this one.
It's always awesome to learn from people with greater experience.
Sadly, my genes didn't help here. No singers in the family, whatsoever.
Funny you should mention Captain Picard.
Hair-wise...probably not. Beard-wise... probably yes. Not sure, though.
I'm just sharing ideas with you guys. I'm not really asking anything specific on this one, maybe just ideas for a beard-style or maybe a representation on how you would see the clothing for this character/scene.
Anything, really... If you have a visual/audio idea that just pops into your head as you are reading or looking at my plans for the next test, just shout it out loud, don't keep it to yourself.
It's sort of like a passive brainstorming session.
Hm... I'll try to improvise something.
All my recent roles (including Guybrush) needed the beard. I can honestly say, I love my beard very much, but it is becoming really uncomfortable.
I can safely assume that in the SciFi series I will shave it completely.
My hair?! No! I love my hair!
Since it is a test, I don't expect my look to be a drastic change from the "usual". In the SciFi series I may cut my hair a little shorter than it is now and, as I said, I will shave my beard. Mostly for comfort.
I considered dying my hair once (for a Death Note Tribute)...but I don't want to destroy it o.O ...though I like throwing ideas around.
It is kind of VERY used...a LOT....MANY times....in MULTIPLE movies.
What else ya got?
Argh! No! Keep your beard! It looks good on you.
... yes. That is my only input on this whole thing. Whatever you do acting-wise is sure to be great. Just keep the beard. It suits you.
I'm not sure that she would like to be referred to as "it". Anyway, I say keep your beard; at least until you're prepared to come out of the closet Sir.
Oh, sorry. Erm, keep the beard Silverwolfpet. She looks good on you.
Now, see, that's why I asked if you had a budget, earlier.
If you're trying for a "The Matrix"-like effect of spinning the scene around while singing, this does become a bit more difficult, of course. Then, even I might not notice the lip-synching, though, being a bit too dizzy.
My bro thanks you very much for the comment. He loves that character! We were planning on doing one of the "blue/red" scenes, but we weren't sure we could make them epic enough.
Thanks
We needed a huge house and nobody would just lend us one... not to mention that my English skills were not so great then.
Till this day, I cannot really pull a great British accent. It would've probably ruin the scenes
But it's so....itchy!
When I was Aragorn I had to let my beard grow for 2 months+ ! It became agonizing at one point.
Right now I am letting it grow for one final Tribute. I can't tell you what it is. It's a surprise for a friend.
And once again, my so called English skills fail me.
I really didn't get the last sentence, my bad! Maybe I'm just tired and I'm missing the joke.
Haha, stop calling it "she"! It's weird!
Tell you what, if it's necessary, I'll keep the beard for the Jekyll-Hyde test.
But in most drawings and representations, Jekyll had no beard. Maybe only mutton chops.
Ah! I zee.
No, I don't. Not that type of budget
Thanks for the advice.
I think people will notice the difference from one shot to another, especially if I film it in a large room, the echo will sound awkward at times.
We'll see.
How about this:
Cape or no cape?
I was thinking a white shirt (1700s style) with black cape (like judges used to wear, you know? With a little chain that kept it from opening).
Awkward echoes make singing sound more realistic and less like a music video.
Oops, sorry mate. Check out the 'concealing sexual orientation' section in the link below so that you're in on the joke...
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beard_(companion)
Erm...okay.
*goes to steal change*
*comes back with black eye*
My bro said "no".
...but I got the cape part! Thanks!
Hm... I'll see if I can work that in the test. I may work more on facial expressions and voice-changes to define each character.
I would need to be an expert on acoustics and sound-tech in general. Which I am not. However, I like this idea!
Maybe in the future I will use it in a project. It is worth testing! Thanks!
Aaah! Now I get it! ...aaand I suddenly have the urge to shave! Hahaha!
Ah, slang-terms... never fully understood their necesity. Fun, nontheless!
Okay... let's play with the lights, shall we?
What type of lighting would you like to see?
This or perhaps the background should be more visible or maybe like this with a vignette or should we just go with the full light but still keeping hard shadows?
I wouldn't go with full light with soft shadows because the scene is rather intense.
What do you think?
Also, should we go with Black&White, slightly desaturated or intense contrasts?
I like the second and third ones best (aside from the fact that it's La Jolla). For Jekyll and Hyde, I think it will work best in black & white, unless you're going to try something like making Hyde's face redder than Jekyll's.
Hmm...I zee... okay.
Aha...mmmmkaaay.
*writes down* don't....use...actual....La Jolla...
Aha...good....mmmhmm....
Okay!
Costume, colors, sideburns are settled.
What about the actual location? Where do you think I could film this? Keep it rational aka don't tell me "In a castle". I'm in the middle of a city.
by the way, in case you missed it, I just announced that I finished the sound effects for the LOTr Parody and more than 50% of the soundtrack
There's kind of an allure to doing this in "the bad part of town", with run-down buildings in the background. However, you would have to work to keep your camera from being stolen. Most likely, anyplace that doesn't look too modern is fine. Avoid huge distracting things that take away attention from what the scene is supposed to be about.
And definitely not La Jolla.
I'd love to do that. Unfortunately, I would strongly dislike to be robbed.
I think I'll probably use an interior BUT I will keep in mind your "lamps" idea...maybe I can combine the elements, somehow. I like the lamps idea... Hmmm *wheels spinning in head*
Oh...I completely didn't think of that, hahaha! True...library is kind of ...off limits.
My point exactly
Hm, ok...so lamps...and not modern...aha... good!
That goes without saying.
And definitely not La Jolla.[/QUOTE]
ACK! Don't sneak up on me like that!
Geez! I'm working my butt off here!!
Okay, I think I have every info I need. One last HUGE and IMPORTANT question!
The voice.... Jekyll is easy, soft, vulnerable, blabla...
But Hyde? Everybody playing Hyde uses a low, rough voice... What if I take that to a new dimension? A broken, high voice?
Example, Jaffar's voice in this song, when he goes high pitched:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zsWQFRgLA9A
What do you think? This is very important, because I may start recording soon and I need to practice it well.
Stylistically I'd make his first person parts a bit shaky, with light static noises and the occcasional close slow motion focus on an odd sound effect, (like chinking of metal, buzzing of a bug, the scribbling of the pen), that makes him comment on it, most of the time out of context.
(Maybe over time make Jekyl gradually experience similar behaviour)
Maybe he could have the cape, but only he sees it.
(Sort of like a fight-club like projection. We get clued in on it, by the cape passing through something that should have snagged it (that would be a great effect! XD))
Also a higher voice could work. Maybe make Jekyl sound a little apathetic, and make Hyde sound excitable.
(So in a nutshell, make a Hyde with some characteristics that Jekyl lacks but subconciously wants, but at the price of negative and unpredictable characteristics caused by creating a whole new personality he has little control over)
(I'd like to point out I haven't bothered to read through this thread, so if I am completely out here, then please disregard my post)
EDIT:
I just thought of something else pretty freaky but cool.
One could add to the Jekyl hilucinations by making those close-ups look like a video camera recording (with the timestamps, motion blur, static ect) so its like he's literally watching someone else's experiences.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0lqLE6lSWeA