Delve into the world of long takes, where the hosts weigh the pros and cons of these immersive techniques in film storytelling. They discuss the Sundance Film Festival's shift to Boulder and the impact of new rules on the Nicholl Fellowship. Join amusing anecdotes from early careers, and explore the challenges of sound quality and theater experiences. The hosts even touch on their gaming adventures in the Alien RPG and share a humorous critique of recent video games, blending nostalgia with insights on creativity.
Long takes are powerful storytelling tools that enhance immersion but demand meticulous planning and consistent performances from actors.
The Sundance Film Festival's relocation to Boulder addresses logistical challenges and aims to improve community relations and infrastructure for filmmakers.
Changes to the Nicholl Fellowship's submission process raise concerns about accessibility for aspiring writers, potentially limiting diversity in script representation.
Deep dives
The Importance of Long Takes in Screenwriting
Long takes are significant tools in screenwriting that allow the audience to immerse themselves in the story without the distraction of cutting. By employing techniques such as the 'oner,' writers can convey real-time action and emotional continuity, making viewers feel as though they are a part of the scene. The Netflix series 'Adolescence' serves as a prime example, using extensive takes to create a fluid narrative that follows characters through various settings. This technique requires careful planning and coordination from the entire production team to maintain the energy and focus of a live performance.
Challenges and Cons of Long Takes
While long takes can enhance storytelling, they come with notable challenges that can affect production quality. The lack of cuts can result in a heavier reliance on actors to deliver strong performances consistently, as deviations in pace or energy may detract from the scene. Additionally, lighting and camera movements become increasingly difficult, sometimes leading to unmotivated actor movements just to keep the shot moving. If not executed carefully, long takes can also give the impression that the director’s ego overshadows the narrative, detracting from the story being told.
The Shift of Sundance Film Festival to Boulder
The Sundance Film Festival is transitioning from its long-standing home in Park City, Utah, to Boulder, Colorado, a move driven by logistical challenges and a shift in the political climate of Utah. This change responds to concerns from locals in Park City who have felt overwhelmed by the influx of visitors during the festival. Boulder promises better infrastructure and space for the festival to thrive, making it a more suitable location for filmmakers and enthusiasts alike. Additionally, the move offers financial incentives that are beneficial for sustaining the festival's future.
Nichols Fellowship Update and Its Implications
The Nichols Fellowship has undergone significant changes, now partnering with university programs and the Blacklist for script submissions rather than maintaining an open-door policy. This shift raises concerns about accessibility for aspiring screenwriters who may not have ties to these institutions. Critics argue that it could restrict opportunities for diverse voices in the industry, effectively creating gatekeeping barriers. Moreover, the change impacts readers who previously had opportunities to engage with submissions, highlighting broader issues around inclusivity and opportunity within screenwriting competitions.
The Role of Editors and Script Supervisors
Editors play a crucial role in the filmmaking process, often working closely with script supervisors to ensure continuity and coherence in scenes. While script supervisors produce detailed notes to assist editors, there's a notable discrepancy in how frequently these notes are utilized during the editing process. Editors typically focus on performance rather than minutiae, underscoring the need for effective communication between units throughout production. This highlights the importance of collaboration and empathy within the filmmaking community, as understanding each other's roles can lead to a more seamless final product.
John and Craig break out of coverage to look at oners and long shots, cutting through any directorial showboating to compare the pros and cons and cons and cons of those unbroken takes, offering ways to decide when they are necessary or purposeful, and how to recognize when it’s better to cut.
We also look at changes to Sundance and the Nicholl Fellowship, answer listener questions on house lights in movie theaters, Oscar voting, improv movies, and share a few horror stories from John and Craig’s early career.
In our bonus segment for premium members, John and Craig look at their relationship with their phones and consider dumbing down.
