Blog 22: Senior Project Reflection

1. For my block presentation, I'm happy to look back on the past 9 months and say that I've endured senior year. Ever since freshman year, I wasn't confident that I would make time or be able to handle all the work, but like my dedicated peers, I completed everything to my satisfaction. 
2. On my senor presentation, I would give myself a P. I met all of the requirements, and yes, I could have been better. I relied on speaker notes to guide me through my presentation since I've never been any good at public speaking without some sort of guidance. Nonetheless, I delivered a much better presentation with them than I would have been without them. I would give myself a P on my senior project because I completed everything on time and to the best of my ability. 
3. I encountered a few obstacles as I completed my senior project. It was a bit difficult for me to get mentorship hours at first because my aunt was pregnant and my uncle wasn't working on as many projects at the time, and on top of that, my mentors live about an hour away. I resolved this by doing research from home and sharing it with them. Besides this, the day before my exit interview, my aunt's brother passed away, so my mind was elsewhere when I attended my exit interview and began composing my final presentation.
4. I wouldn't change anything because I try not to dwell on regrets, and as a result, I remain content.
5. My senior project has helped prepare me for my future endeavors because in college, I plan on studying film, and I-Poly has heavily implemented filmmaking throughout the coursework. Therefore, my mentorship, independent components, the Frankenstein films, film creation and appreciation electives, as well as small misc. assignments have all aided in honing my filmmaking skill. Besides this, we were required to participate in committees and plan events, which brings us closer together as a class. I will walk away from I-Poly with both memories, knowledge, and above all, as a better person.

May Blog

Well, this year has been really informative and I'm glad to say I endured all four years at I-Poly... that is if I pass my presentation tomorrow. I've rehearsed it several times now and I'm confident that I'll at least meet my own expectations. It's hard to believe that there's less than a week left of school, but I'm sure the remaining days will leave me with nothing but good memories of I-Poly when we all part ways.

Blog 21: Mentorship

• My Mentorship Log has been updated.
• My Mentor is my aunt, Violeta Duran. Her phone number is (626) 252-6536 and her email is violeta.reinaga@gmail.com. I emailed her a copy of the yellow verification sheet that requested her to confirm my hours, which may not be done immediately since she just had a baby this weekend.
• The most important thing I gained from this experience is ironically experience. I now have much more knowledge and insight in the field of independent film, which I would not have acquired if it wasn't for I-Poly.
• Mentorship has helped me answer my EQ since I now have some perspective on the side of independent film that I had not been exposed to in the past- the technical, "behind the scenes" side of independent film. The most essential thing to creating an independent film may be the minds behind the type of work I did for mentorship.

April Blog

Some interesting news I recently found out: one of the films that my mentors worked on, and I served as a production assistant and extra for, will be featured by a film festival. The film will be exhibited at the TCL Chinese Theater at a date I have not yet learned. I'm really excited to see how everything goes, and it's astounding to see my 3rd answer in action. The film was completed on a low-budget and now it will be shown at one of the most famous locations in Hollywood. I didn't have any speaking parts and I wasn't a full time production assistant, but I'm glad to be a part of what my mentors have created.

Blog 20: Exit Interview

(1) What is your essential question and answers?  What is your best answer and why?

 My EQ is "what is most essential to creating a profitable independent film?" My answers are:

• In order to compose a profitable independent film, good dramatic presentation must be present and the film will be a satisfactory investment for both the filmmaker and the viewer.
• In order to compose a profitable independent film, one must be in the mindset of seeking profit in the form of monetary gain by taking advantage of distribution and marketing techniques.
• In order to compose a profitable independent film, one must collaborate with an ideal ensemble of fellow filmmakers.

My best answer is my 1st answer because filmmakers and viewers alike will enjoy a film that has throught-provoking material and good composition, from both a technical and dramatic perspective. I arrived at this answer because it's one of the most basic fundamentals of filmmaking. Although the most "profitable" films on a monetary note are always everyone's favorite, independent films typically generate less revenue, are more provocative with complex themes, and are not made for the general market like a blockbuster film.

(2) What process did you take to arrive at this answer?

I arrived at this answer as I was defining "independent film" at the beginning of the year. Between my research and an interview with my mentor, I learned that the term signifies the means by which the film was financed. This is how most people define independent film, however some would argue that unlike blockbuster films, independent films have the freedom to express themselves. With that, I researched the psychological background on the enjoyment of films to deduce that dramatic presentation makes audiences feel more empathy, immersing them in the story.

(3) What problems did you face?  How did you resolve them?

The only problem I have is that my senior project grade has not been updated nor posted in months, so I have no idea how it will be reflected in the rest of my grades. Additionally, the grading system transition has made some other classes less punctual to be reported. The issue is out of my control, but to attempt to resolve the problem, I have asked when the senior project grades would be available, let alone up to date.

(4) What are the two most significant sources you used to answer your essential question and why?

My two most significant sources were psychologist Dolf Zillman's scholarly journals titled Mechanisms of Emotional Involvement with Drama, and The Role of Empathic Distress in the Enjoyment of Cinematic Tragedy. The sources applied to my best answer, analyzed the role of empathy in cinema, and provided psychological insight on film/viewer relationship. The research was fascinating and informative, a combination generally not evident in research.

Blog 19: Independent Component 2

(a) I, Richard Reinaga, affirm that I completed my independent component which represents 30 hours of work.
(b) Since my independent component 2 was a film trailer, my sources would be my interviewees: Philip Miller, and Violeta and Miguel Duran.
(c) My Independent Component 2 Log is up to date.
(d) I completed a trailer for the screenplay I wrote for my 1st independent component. The link to the copy can be found under Blog 14: Independent Component 1. Through the trailer, I wanted it to allude to what I had written but didn't want to give away too much. 

As I worked on my 2nd independent component, I updated my log with a quick but detailed summary of exactly what I did each day. 

I have the trailer on my flash drive which is available upon request. I am posting it on Youtube, here is the link.

This independent component helped me answer my EQ by supporting my 3rd answer: In order to compose a profitable independent film, one must collaborate with an ideal ensemble of fellow filmmakers. My two main actors were individuals who I have worked with in the past and have grown close to. The experience was undoubtedly enjoyable and I love the product.

March Blog

I've recently been provided with a list of independent films by Sabrina Colin, one of my peers who appreciates independent film as much as I do. I was told are very provocative and enjoyable. I've seen 3 of them so far, so I can't wait to see what's next.

1. Lifeguard
2. Stuck In Love- really good film. Both relatable and not too cliché.
3. And While We Were Here
4. White Frog
5. Keith
6. Sassy Pants
7. KaBoom
8. The Babysitters
9. The Paperboy
10. Werewolf Boy
11. One Day
12. Turtles Can Fly
13. An Education
14. The Way Way Back
15. Now is Good
16. Spectacular Now
17. Mysterious Skin
18. Dirty Girl
19. Twelve
20. The Last Word
21. Never Back Down- Not sure if it's independent, but was still well worth watching.
22. The Final- Strange and sadistic at times, but it was funny for me.
23. The Other Woman
24. Struck By Lighting


On a side note, I'm in pre-production of my independent component. I'm still gathering actors to play the main characters in my trailer, and I'm really looking forward to see how everything turns out.

Blog 18: Third Answer

What is most essential to creating a profitable independent film?

Answer #3: In order to compose a profitable independent film, one must take the initiative necessary to leverage relationships with fellow filmmakers.

• Strategic collaborations don't compromise the vision
• Not all film crews get along harmoniously
• The department at which a crew member finds themselves carrying out tasks with the most favorable results is unique to them

Research sources I used: 5, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 33.

The most optimal filmmaking mindset might not be present in every crew member, therefore production managers must instinctively choose crew members for the greater good of the project.

Blog 17: Fourth Interview

1. What is most essential to creating a profitable independent film?
2. How would you define "profitable" in the context of independent film?
3. What factor contributes most to the success of an independent film?
4. What about independent film appealed to you?
5. Which departments do you most enjoy working in?
6. What do you enjoy doing most in terms of independent film in general?
7. How highly do you prioritize exposure when it comes to independent film?
8. How highly do you prioritize revenue when it comes to independent film?
9. Have significant relationships between yourself and other crew members been created as a result of one of your projects?
10. In the case of independent film, do you most value exposure, revenue, relationships, or the process?
11. How does one usually begin the writing of a screenplay for an independent film?
12. Do you find that working in several departments is a heavy workload, or would you say it allows you to utilize and apply all of your special skills accordingly?
13. How can one determine the marketability/niche market of their project?
14. How does one go about distributing their film?
15. By what means does a producer or director gather actors or other crew members?
16. For a low-budget independent film, what are production designers responsible for doing and how can they best carry out said tasks?
17. How do filmmakers acquire novelty props that they plan to implement into their project?
18. How can location scouts gain access to private locations?
19. How do sound designers act to convey the emotional accordance of a scene through the use of music and sound effects?
20. What is the most advantageous way for the actors, cinematographers, editors, and sound designers to manipulate the perception of a scene in order to achieve its optimal effectiveness on an audience?

February Blog

From 8 P.M. yesterday to 8 A.M. today, I was in the food court at the Montebello Mall. I acted as an extra for a PSA about active shooters and how to stay safe in such a critical situation. There were several groups, all of which had to react in different ways. I was part of Group A, the group that immediately took off into the mall when the gun was fired. Group B had to hide under the tables to ensure their safety. Group C was split into 2 subgroups: the first posed as cashiers at the fast-food restaurants (some of which had to be renamed for copyright purposes), and the second subgroup wore exploding bloodpacks to simulate getting shot by the extremely loud flash-bang gun. Thankfully, we were provided with earplugs, and all the catering was definitely a plus. Here are some photos I took during a rehearsal:

My mentors were not affiliated with this assignment, so my contact was Deputy Ralf Paddock email: RIPaddoc@lasd.org, or (909) 851-7805,  who called to confirm that I would be there. He has access to all of the release forms, which reflect that I was indeed there.

Blog 16: Advisory Meeting #2

Answer #2: In order to compose a profitable independent film, one must be in the mindset of seeking profit in the form of monetary gain by taking advantage of distribution and marketing techniques.

• Films that are marketed well and extensively are apt to gain attention and subsequently generate substantial revenue.
• Marketing is the first impression that consumers get of a film. If they are intrigued by a poster, trailer, etc., they are likely to see the film and tell others about it.
• Without distribution, the availability of the film to the consumers will be lacking and thus the film cannot gain profit.

Research sources I used: 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, 17, and 33.

Blog 15: Independent Component 2 Approval

1. For my independent component, I plan on shooting the screenplay I made for my first independent component, and using the footage, I will make a trailer.
2. In my independent component 2 log, I will describe what I did in detail to outline the course of the film production. The trailer itself should be sufficient evidence since the filmmaking process is not brief.
3. My independent component will provide me the opportunity to put all of the research I have gathered to use, and it is the most logical way to follow through with my 1st independent component. 

Blog 14: Independent Component 1

1. I, Richard Reinaga, affirm that I completed my independent component which represents 30 hours of work.
2. I didn't read a book on how to write a screenplay, however in ROP Videography, I learned how to utilize a template and just build off of that. Also, everyone had to compose a script freshman year for the Multigenre Project and again sophomore year for the Frankenstein Films, so we should all have some level of experience.
3. My Independent Component Log is already up.
4. For my Independent Component 1, I created a screenplay that allows me to apply most of the research I've done so far, and it allows me to be productive and creative, something that no amount of research will exercise.

My screenplay should be sufficient evidence in demonstrating 30 hours of work, which is explained with greater detail in my Independent Component Log. Click here to view my screenplay. Although it is purely expositional (it ends at the conflict), it represents 30 hours of work. Screenwriting is a strenuous process that I have had the fortune of undergoing, and since I tend to be very detail-oriented, none of the possible outgrowths following the introduction of the conflict have appeased me. I simply left it up for speculation with hopes that I will someday have an option that is particularly striking relative to those thus far.

The component helped me understand the foundation of my topic in great depth. The research gave me a considerably superficial perspective on independent film, and this more engaging hands-on work allowed me to gradually apply this information with practicality. This example is somewhat abstract, but since I know what independent film is already, I might as well employ what I've learned since anything else would be tedious. It essentially allowed me to deepen my understanding and offer more admiration to my topic.

Blog 13: Lesson 2 Reflection

1. I am most proud of all the effort I applied in my 30-min presentation. I created speaker notes and presented with them, because without them, I would have forgotten all of the pertinent points I intended to make, and thus, not met the speaking time requirement.
2. A. I would give myself a P because an AE wouldn't be very modest, and I don't think I did anything so wrong to the point of a grade deduction. To my knowledge, I met the time requirement, and because I not only tried to give as much background on my answer as I could, but I supported every point I made with research, my mentor, real-life scenarios, and even feedback from the audience. I tried to be as integrative and comprehensive as I could and I truly hope the audience enjoyed my presentation, and ultimately, learned something. B. I believe I met all of the specifications labeled under "For 'P' Consideration", I articulated well enough, I frequently made gestures to the audience and although I used speaker notes to help guide me along, I made sufficient eye contact with the audience. From this eye contact, I could tell that they were considerably engaged as I never met eyes with someone who were ignoring me or falling asleep. My activity utilized all of the information I conveyed through my presentation and it was a break from presenting for myself as well as the audience. I had a powerpoint equivalent, and I showed a prop (movie slate) and briefly explained its usage. I cited quality research, one was a publish research source, and I referenced both my mentor and my interview. I used a simple (not overbearing) hook activity, my activity required minimal group work from the audience, and the activity required the audience to use the information I presented to them. That concludes every specification noted in the Lesson 2: 30-Minute Presentation Component Contract.
3. Everything worked for me in my Lesson 2 Presentation.
4. If I had a time machine, I would have said more loudly (meaning that I did clearly say it) that the audience needed to complete the worksheet I handed out during the film scene, not after it. This was minor though, and not much of an issue on my behalf, it just seemed like the audience was too lazy to complete it.
5. For my answer #2, I might have another take on the term "profitable" as it is used in my EQ. Maybe this time it can directly be monetary gain, or personal satisfaction.

January Blog

My 30-min presentation is in 3 days and for my activity, I will be showing the class a film to support my answer 1 and help the audience better define characters and the factors that contribute to good dramatic presentation in regard to independent film. I am contemplating several different films:

1. The Breakfast club- one of my all time favorites, this film clearly establishes distinguishable characters and exhibits their complex interactions and personal situations.
2. The Perks of Being a Wallflower- this film is truly moving, and features a unique character that faces numerous issues that he eventually succumbs. 
3. Garden State- I haven't seen it myself, however it was recommended to me by my mentor and it seems interesting nontheless.
4. Like Crazy- A nice love story that can offer the audience a bit of insight on a college relationship.

I'm currently leaning towards #2 since it's one of the less vulgar choices, but it should still be relatable to the audience.

Blog 12: Third Interview Questions

1. What is most essential to creating a profitable independent film?
2. How would you define independent film?
3. How would you define "profitable" in the context of independent film?
4. What factor contributes most to the success of an independent film?
5. What about independent film appealed to you?
6. Which departments do you most enjoy working in?
7. In what ways have independent films shaped our lives and society as a whole?
8. Would you say that independent films have created a culture that many tend to overlook, or that it gives anyone with a camera and an imaginative idea they want to express an outlet to do so?
9. What are some independent films that you would recommend?
10. In the case of independent film, do you most value exposure, revenue, relationships, or the process?

Blog 11: Mentorship 10 Hours

1. I am doing my mentorship with the production company my aunt and uncle are affiliated with: Desert Monsoon Media. Some of my mentorship was done on-site under their supervision, and some was collecting research which they assigned for me on my own time. The details of my work are indicated in my mentorship log.
2. My contact/mentor is my aunt, but I can contact my uncle just as easily.
3. I have done a total of 31 hours of mentorship so far.
4. All of this is stated in my mentorship log, but I doubled as an on-site production assistant and a film festival research assistant for my aunt and uncle's web series. I marked the scenes and operated the boom mic on several scenes and organized the snacks and drinks. As for the film festival research, I found all submission specifications for upcoming film festivals.

Blog 10: Senior Project: The Holiday

1. Over break, I allowed myself to rest and get my mind off of the bombardment of schoolwork. But for my senior project, however, I brainstormed a few additional fields of film I could research that I've overlooked: animation, camera operation, accounting, wardrobe, hair and makeup, stunts, and special effects. With regard to independent film, some of these will be much more finite as opposed to feature films.
2. What I learned from this is that film departments will be much more diverse and broad for feature films. For example, wardrobe, hair and makeup, and even special effects (physical) could all be lumped into one department for a low-budget independent film, but for a feature film, they are all their own respective departments. There is no source for this, it's just an analytical interpretation based on logic and common sense. Evidence: independent films typically have much smaller budgets. As a result, there will be less crew members and subsequently these crew members will have to work in teams that cover several departments, lumped together and chosen at the discretion of the directors/supervisors.
3. If I were going to do a 10 question interview on questions related to answers of my EQ, I would consider talking to independent filmmakers who've produced a good variety of films each with their individual qualities, preferably some that have done significantly well.