My Film Opening

 After many days and weeks working on this film opening with my partner Antonio Navas, I have finally finished the opening to the film Mirage.

The Film Opening

This project is by far the biggest project I have ever worked on and I very much enjoyed working on it. It was a very pleasant experience for me and I had so much fun making it. 

My Creative Critical Reflections (CCR)

 These are my CCRs videos for my project. This project has really helped me realize how much I enjoy working on the projects for Aice Media

My First CCR

My Second CCR

The final video (Week 8)

 After the entire spring break to be able to work on the project. I have finally finished the editing the sound and the credits for the video. It took the help of many people along with the help from some websites. I am surprised at how much I was able to learn from this process. 

The songs and music that we got was from a website named Uppbeat. This website provided me and my partner non copy righted music that could be used for the project.  These sounds were very useful in creating the tension in the film and helped with the showing of the genre. They were free as well and super easy to download for the project  

I believe that the most difficult part of the project was figuring out what scenes should stay in and which ones should be cut down. The final project was too long and had to be cut down many different times. After I cut them down I had to decide which ones would stay and which scenes we would keep. 

Begun the editing (Week8)

 Now that I have finished the recording with my partner, we have begun to start the editing process. I’m gonna be honest I struggled with getting the footage on too my laptop to be able to properly edit. After looking up a few YouTube videos I got the hang of it. 

During the editing process we first began by cutting out and muting the unnecessary parts of the videos. There were many parts that were either to dragged out and had to be cut, or parts where we had to mute it because of someone talking. 

In the photo shown above it shows the process of cutting and editing the film. We used the application named ClipChamp that comes with the laptop. It is very useful and very easy to use. 

Not only did I have the ability to add the credits more efficiently, but it was over all much easier to use then other applications I’ve worked with in the past. 

Starting to record (Week 8)

 Me and my partner have begun the recording process for our project. We have decided since it was spring break that it would be the perfect opportunity to begin the recording since we have so much time on our hands now. We chose to use not only our houses for the video but we have also used our friends houses as well. Throughout the production that we have done so far it is going very well. 

We have used the dog of one of our friends named Zach and it was very nice. This was my first time working on a project with an animal and it was an interesting experience. The dog was super well behaved and did not cause any problems. 

This is the dog that we used. He was surprisingly well behaved and he was super nice. After we finished the scenes that we needed the dog for, we gave him a treat and took him back inside. 

For my first time working with an animal for a school project it wasn’t as hard as I thought it would be. Without the dog it would have been much harder to grasp the idea of the shapeshifter in the film. 

Different techniques and Equipment (Week Six)

 In order to create our horror film opening project, we will need a variety of applications, equipment, and software tools to bring our vision to life. Among the key applications that we will use include video editing software such as Adobe. This program will allow us to bring together all of our footage, sound effects, and visual effects to create a cohesive and polished final product. Additionally, we may use audio editing software like Audacity to fine-tune our sound effects and create a chilling audio atmosphere.

For equipment, we will need a high-quality camera to capture our scenes effectively. A camera or a camcorder with the ability to shoot in high definition will be crucial for achieving a professional look. We may also utilize a tripod for stable shots, as well as lighting equipment such as LED lights to ensure that our scenes are well-lit and visually striking. A portable sound recorder or microphone may also be necessary to capture clear and crisp audio during filming.

When it comes to software tools, we may leverage visual effects software such as Adobe After Effects or HitFilm to enhance our scenes and add in special effects such as blood splatters, ghostly apparitions, or other creepy elements. These programs will allow us to seamlessly blend live-action footage with computer-generated imagery to create a truly terrifying experience for our viewers. Additionally, we may use color grading software to enhance the mood and atmosphere of our film through the manipulation of color tones and lighting effects. By utilizing these applications, equipment, and software tools effectively, we can elevate our horror film opening project to a professional level and provide an immersive and chilling experience for our audience.

New Ideas for recording (Week Six)

I plan to use a variety of camera techniques to create a sense of suspense and fear from the very beginning. To capture the eerie atmosphere, I will utilize low-angle shots to make the audience feel small and vulnerable. I will also incorporate whip pans to create sudden, jarring movements that heighten tension and surprise the viewer. Additionally, I will experiment with handheld camera movements to give a sense of urgency and chaos, as though the characters are being chased or hunted.




Sound will play a crucial role in setting the mood and enhancing the scare's in my horror film opening. I will utilize ambient noises such as creaking floorboards, distant whispers, and unsettling music to create a sense of unease. Jump scares will be accentuated with sharp, sudden sound effects to startle the audience and keep them on edge. The use of silence will also be important, as it can build anticipation and create a sense of dread before a terrifying moment occurs.




In terms of editing, I plan to use quick cuts and jump cuts to create a sense of disorientation and chaos in my horror film opening. By cutting rapidly between different shots and angles, I aim to keep the audience on their toes and maintain a sense of unpredictability. I will also experiment with slow-motion and reverse motion to create a sense of unease and surrealism. Color grading and visual effects will be used to enhance the overall atmosphere and make the viewer feel as though they are in a nightmare.




The project will be a combination of carefully planned camera techniques, sound design, and editing choices to create a truly terrifying experience for the audience. By using these elements effectively, I hope to leave a lasting impression and make viewers eager to see what happens next in the story.

Creative critical perfection (Week Six)

 So today in class we have gone over the final part of the portfolio project. We have gone over how to answer all four questions, what to put into the presentations, and how to construct it in general. This is a very intense piece of the project due to the fact that it is 20 out of 50 TOTAL POINTS. 

Anyways we have gone over some examples of past presentations that were posted in previous years. They were all really good, but we went over what could have made them better and what could have been improved. I realized how much harder this part of the project will be then I thought it would be. 

We need to answer Four questions all talking about different parts of the project. The questions ask things like the process of the project, the planning, the editing, the tools that we used, the types of ideas we had for the project, and the final part which goes over the whole bases of the project. 

These are the notes that I had taken in class. These notes will help me greatly and guide me on what to do for this. This part is a HUGE part of my grade and I prefer not to mess it up. Doing so would most likely cost me my grade on this whole project. 

Some New Ideas (Week Five)

The origin of the shapeshifter in the horror film shares similarities with the monsters from the popular TV show Stranger Things, as it is a malevolent and otherworldly creature that hails from a dark and mysterious realm beyond human understanding. Just like the monsters in Stranger Things, the shapeshifter in the film is a formidable and insidious force that possesses the ability to take on various forms, adapting and evolving in order to evade capture and sow chaos and fear among its victims.

However, unlike the monsters in Stranger Things that are shown on-screen in their full grotesque glory, the shapeshifter in the film remains largely off-camera from the audience, much like the enigmatic creatures in the movie Birdbox. This deliberate choice adds to the sense of terror and suspense surrounding the shapeshifter, as its true form and intentions are shrouded in mystery, leaving the audience to imagine the horrors that it is capable of unleashing.

The shapeshifter's origins are veiled in shadow and obscurity, with only fleeting glimpses and cryptic clues hinting at its dark and ancient lineage. Much like the unseen beasts in Birdbox that drive people to madness through their mere presence, the shapeshifter's influence is insidious and pervasive, twisting the minds of those who encounter it and bending them to its will in ways that defy comprehension.

As Frank delves deeper into the mystery of the shapeshifter's origins, he uncovers a tangled web of ancient myths and forbidden knowledge that hint at the creature's true nature. The shapeshifter's origins are steeped in a rich tapestry of eldritch lore that speaks to the darkest recesses of the human psyche, tapping into primal fears and anxieties that lurk just beneath the surface of reality.

In a narrative that blends the supernatural intrigue of Stranger Things with the psychological horror of Birdbox, the origin of the shapeshifter serves as a chilling and evocative backdrop for Frank's harrowing journey. As he unravels the creature's dark past and confronts the malevolent forces that threaten to consume the town, Frank must grapple with the terrifying reality that lies beyond the veil of human perception, where monsters and nightmares dwell in the shadows, waiting to be unleashed upon an unsuspecting world.

The setting of the story (Week Five)

The town that Frank is living in takes some inspiration from the popular TV show Reacher, creating a small, quiet community that seems ordinary on the surface but holds dark secrets beneath its idyllic facade. Just like the setting in Reacher, the town in which Frank resides is portrayed as a picturesque haven where everyone knows everyone else's business, creating a sense of close-knit community that belies the lurking danger that lies just out of sight.

The town's main street is lined with quaint shops and cafes, bustling with activity during the day as residents go about their daily routines. But as the sun sets and darkness falls over the town, a sense of unease settles in, hinting at the sinister forces that lurk in the shadows. The peaceful charm of the town is juxtaposed with a palpable sense of foreboding, as whispers of strange happenings and unexplained disappearances have plagued the town for years, adding a layer of tension and mystery to the otherwise tranquil setting.

Just like in Reacher, the townspeople in Frank's town are depicted as a tight-knit community who are wary of outsiders and quick to protect their own. Rumors and gossip spread like wildfire through the town, creating an atmosphere of suspicion and mistrust that adds to the overall sense of unease. Despite the town's friendly exterior, Frank soon realizes that there is a darkness that runs deep within its roots, leading him on a dangerous path towards uncovering the town's hidden secrets.

The quiet, small-town atmosphere of the setting serves as the perfect backdrop for the unfolding horror that Frank finds himself embroiled in, adding to the overall sense of isolation and vulnerability that he experiences as he battles against the shapeshifting antagonist. The seemingly peaceful exterior of the town serves as a stark contrast to the terror that Frank faces, highlighting the stark juxtaposition between appearance and reality that lies at the heart of the town's dark secrets.

As Frank navigates the treacherous waters of the town's hidden mysteries, he must confront the unsettling reality that lies beneath the town's picture-perfect facade. Drawing inspiration from the tension and suspense of Reacher, the town in which Frank resides serves as a haunting and atmospheric backdrop for his harrowing journey, adding layers of depth and complexity to the story as he unravels the secrets of the shapeshifter and fights to protect the town from its malevolent influence.

The process of making the Characters (Week Five)

 In the horror film, Frank is a seemingly ordinary man who becomes entangled in a terrifying battle against a shapeshifting antagonist. From the moment he encounters the sinister creature, Frank is faced with a series of escalating challenges that push his courage and wit to their limits. But despite the overwhelming odds stacked against him, Frank proves himself to be a resourceful and clever protagonist with a knack for thinking on his feet.

As the shapeshifter terrorizes the small town where Frank resides, leaving a trail of destruction in its wake, Frank becomes determined to uncover the creature's true identity and put an end to its reign of terror. Armed only with his wits and a few makeshift weapons, Frank sets out to track down the elusive monster, embarking on a dangerous journey that will test his resilience and determination.

As Frank delves deeper into the mystery surrounding the shapeshifter, he discovers rumors of a secret bookstore hidden in the heart of the town, rumored to hold ancient texts and forbidden knowledge about supernatural creatures. Intrigued by the possibility of finding answers to his questions, Frank sets out to locate the elusive bookstore, using his keen investigative skills to follow the breadcrumbs left by those who have encountered the shapeshifter before.

Upon finally locating the secret bookstore, Frank is faced with a supernatural bookstore. Armed with a newfound understanding of the shapeshifter's origins and weaknesses, Frank sets out to confront the creature once and for all, using his newfound knowledge to outsmart and outmaneuver his formidable foe. In a thrilling showdown that tests Frank's courage and cunning to their very limits, he must rely on his ingenuity and resourcefulness to overcome the shapeshifter and restore peace to the town once and for all.

The partial inspiration (Week Four)

The film that me and my partner are making takes a heavy inspiration from the movie Bird Box. The shapeshifter was a creature that was not seen by the audience and was very anonymous as to add to the creepy sensation of the film. I had gotten the idea during the group meeting from this week while I was talking about new ways that I could represent the shapeshifter. 

Once the script is finalized, the next step in the process of making a horror film is pre-production, where the logistical aspects of the project are meticulously planned and organized. This stage involves securing funding, casting the actors, scouting locations, and creating a detailed production schedule. Special attention is paid to creating atmospheric and immersive sets that will enhance the eerie and suspenseful mood of the film, as well as designing practical effects and makeup to bring the terrifying creatures and monsters to life on screen.

As filming begins, the director works closely with the cast and crew to ensure that each scene is shot with precision and attention to detail. Lighting, sound design, and camera angles play a crucial role in creating a sense of tension and dread, as well as building suspense leading up to the film's climactic moments. The actors must deliver convincing performances that will evoke genuine fear and emotion from the audience, drawing them into the horrifying world that has been created on screen.

Post-production is the final stage in the process of making a horror film, where the footage is edited, sound effects are added, and visual effects are integrated to enhance the overall impact of the movie. The editing process is crucial in creating a sense of pacing and rhythm that will keep viewers on the edge of their seats, while the sound design and score help to heighten the tension and create a sense of unease. The final product is a culmination of the collective efforts of the entire team, resulting in a spine-tingling and unforgettable cinematic experience that will haunt audiences long after the credits have rolled.

Rethinking The Story Board (Week Four)

When I first started working on the story, I realized that the plot was lacking in depth and complexity. The characters felt flat and one-dimensional, and the conflict didn't feel compelling enough to engage the reader. I knew that in order to make the story better, I needed to introduce more layers of complexity and nuance to the plot and characters.

One of the first things I decided to change was the protagonist's motivation. I wanted to give them a clearer goal and a more personal stake in the conflict. By delving deeper into their background and motivations, I was able to create a more relatable and dynamic character that readers could root for. I also added new obstacles and complications to the plot to create a more suspenseful and engaging narrative.

Another aspect of the story that I chose to change was the setting. Originally, the story took place in a generic, nondescript location that didn't add much to the overall atmosphere. I decided to relocate the story to a more vivid and evocative setting that would enhance the mood and tone of the narrative. By immersing the reader in a rich and detailed world, I was able to create a more immersive reading experience.

Finally, I made the decision to explore the theme of redemption more deeply in the story. By focusing on the protagonist's journey of self-discovery and growth, I was able to bring a more emotional and resonant arc to the narrative. This added layer of depth and complexity not only made the story more engaging, but also gave it a lasting impact that stayed with readers long after they finished reading. By making these key changes, I was able to transform the story into a more compelling and satisfying work that I was proud to share with others.

Group Meeting (week 4)

Hello, today I had a group meeting talking about the many projects that we are all working on. I met up with five other people and we were all talking about the progress and ideas of our projects. There have been many different ideas in many different gernes and they are all amazing. 

First is Nathanial's project. His idea is pretty cool in my opinion and the story is very exciting. Kinda makes you feel the same way as when you are waiting for a new movie to come out. Anyways the story goes like this. " Todd is a timid young man from the Midwest who has an intense fear of germs and getting sick. One summer, he reluctantly agrees to go with his girlfriend, Ellie, on a trip down south to Florida, where the two will stay in a rental house by an Everglades tourist park. Part of the purpose of the trip is to held Todd get over his fear, as advised by his therapist. Things take a dark turn however when a rare species of mosquitos begin to emerge, biting victims at the park and infecting them with a deadly toxin. When the park refuses to shut down, it becomes up to Todd and Ellie to stop the swarm, teaming up with a local entomologist named Mike and the park's down on his luck gator wrestler named Dan.:

This whole storyline and idea is very interesting and I frankly can not wait to see how it is gonna look like after it is all said and done. It looks and sounds very interesting.

The next story idea is by Madi. Her idea is as follows: The film opening will start with the main character walking through a crowded school hallway, unaware of her pregnancy. She encounters the guy who got her pregnant, leading to a tense moment. The music abruptly stops as she throws up in the bathroom, with the sound effects created through mixing foods and foley work. The opening then transitions to her in class, where she has an awkward encounter with the guy. Flashbacks hint at her pregnancy, without explicitly stating it. The opening ends with her waking up alone in bed, with a voiceover calling her name as the teacher does in class. Small details like the appearance of the title, other actors, and filming locations still need to be decided. The progress has been good and the next step is creating a storyboard to visualize the opening scene.

This is a very interesting story idea that can be very well adapted into a film. The depth and the unique story idea is very cool and very eye catching.

The next story idea was from Dani. Her story is as follows: Over the past week and a half, she has been watching coming-of-age movies for inspiration and working on brainstorming ideas for her film opening. She has drawn inspiration from films like "The Edge of Seventeen," "Spiderman," "The Florida Project," and "The Breakfast Club." She has narrowed down her options to three concepts that incorporate elements from these films. Option 1 is inspired by the bold title and music start of "The Edge of Seventeen." Option 2 includes a dramatic pause similar to Spiderman movies. Option 3 takes inspiration from films like "Jessica Darling It List" and "16 Wishes" with unique transition styles and pop songs. She is considering a combination of these concepts to create an attention-grabbing opening that represents youth and growth in the coming-of-age genre. Finalizing the approach for her film opening is the next step in her creative process.

I believe that the way that she is creating the ideas for her film are very inspiring and very nice to read about. The way that she goes into details about what she is gonna do for her film helps give me different ideas on what I will do for mine.

The next story idea comes from Clara. Her ideas is as follows: The film opening will center around a woman mathematician who discovers the 23, 28, and 33-day biorhythm cycles through complex equations. Accidentally leaving her notes open leads to their discovery by someone who leaks the information to the press. The mathematician sees her findings being shared on the news and receives an urgent call from her boss to come into work immediately. A close-up shot captures her realization and panic before the film title appears on screen. Upon reaching the office, she faces her furious boss questioning her carelessness in sharing the findings despite explicit instructions not to do so. This sets the stage for a conflict-driven narrative.

The story idea that Clara and her group have come up with is very different from the other ones that I have seen before. The story is meant too seem like it is on a cliff hanger but in reality it shows more then it seems to.

The final story is by Mariano. His story is as follows: The story will focus on a teenager in Florida who struggles to socialize during the summer due to his battle with depression. The film opening will begin with a slow zoom out from the character sitting alone on the beach while others his age are enjoying themselves in the background, highlighting his loneliness. The main character will then stand up and walk away, symbolizing leaving his problems behind for the moment. Scenes will show individuals attempting to greet him, but he blocks himself from socializing. The use of bright colors around him contrasted with dark colors representing his inner struggles through mise en scene. Background dialogue and music will be used to enhance emotions in the opening sequence. Further development is still needed, but the concept shows promise in conveying the character's internal conflict and isolation.

This idea for a story is very lively which makes it more interesting. The idea that the different symbolisms are very obviously shown in the film is pretty cool in my opinion.

Continuing the Story (Week Three)

  This is a continuation of the story plot and main idea from the last Blog. After the encounter with the mysterious shapeshifter, Frank begins to have dreams about it. He starts having not only dreams but nightmares about it to. The shapeshifter has begun to turn into the people that he cares about the most.

At this point Frank is desperate for answers on what the hell this thing is and what it wants from him. Frank begins looking for answers and comes across an old book store. Gaining more information about the bookstore it appears to have many different reports of having some sort of super natural activities. Since the reports have come from many different people, he thought that it would help give him some type of reason for the shapeshifter.

Frank ends up mustering up the courage to go to the bookstore. As he begins to dig around he finds something shocking. In the dirt and trash around the store there was a book that seemed out of place. Its name was " death to the devils sons". Inside the book he finds something that could help him with his current problem. He finds the true form of the shapeshifter.

Beginning the Story (Week Three)

While starting to create the story for the project. The research i have done really does come into play. Beginning to apply the research to the project itself has become very interesting. Not only am I continuing to learn more but I have been able to fix any mistakes I have made in the past.

In the story there is a town that is named Crestwood. In a random part of town their is this teenager that goes by the name of Frank. One day. everything was normal. Frank was walking down the street minding his own business, he finds a dark ally. He decides to go down the ally but going down the ally he would see something that he would never forget.

There was this strange creature that was appearing to Frank to be a shapeshifter. As Franks eyes look at this disturbing creature as it changes between forms. The moment the creature notices Frank he runs away and runs all the way back home. When Frank spastically tells his parents what happened they do not believe him because he always loves to play stupid pranks.

The Final Part of the Research (Week two)

 The final part of my research will be finalized with the finished production of the story. The idea that me and my partner had for the project was pretty good in my opinion. In the story the teenager is being followed by a strange being throughout the entire movie. 

While he is getting followed the creature appears to have the ability to be able to shape shift. So throughout the entire movie the creature is following the main character by changing his shape into the people that the teen knows personally. 

Throughout the movie the teen is getting more and more freaked out by the strange things that are happening around him. The strange behaviors of the people that he knew best. When he figures it out, most of the people that he had known that the creature turned into had been killed off. 

The continued Research (week two)

 The more that I continued my research the more I realized how incredible the horror films are. The Idea that me and my partner are currently coming up with is the idea of a shape shifter type of movie. This would be a thriller combined with a horror movie. 

The full idea would be how a teenager would be going throughout his day, but does not realize that a creature is coming after him. This creature decides to take the form of the people that the teenager knows such as his parents, family and friends. Throughout the movie, it becomes more and more obvious to the teenager that something is not right. He begins to feel uneasy and begins experiencing unnatural events.

This idea would use a creative way of editing and making it seem as though nothing is what it seems. The use of sound techniques used in the film will signify when the creature is near the teenager. Certain stings and soundtracks would be the indicator that the creature is near. When the audience feels as though the creature is near a certain sound will appear to sort of bait the audience into thinking that something is wrong when it is not.

Starting My Project (week two)

 The genre that I have decided to choose with my partner is horror. The main reason that I chose this genre is because there are many different ways that you can make into horror. There are many different techniques and styles that you can use in a horror film such as lighting, shadows, editing techniques, and sound.

One of the websites that I have used for my research is Horror Studies Resources. This website has allowed me to further understand what makes a horror movie a horror movie. Generally speaking it has helped me a lot. Not only did it show me how to properly create and make a horror film but it has also showed me many different ideas that I can put into my project.

Another website that i used for my research is DartMouth Libraries. This website showed me the results of what happens when the right techniques are applied to a film. These techniques show how when they are put together can create the sense of horror. This website was also very helpful because it showed me the finished products of the films that correctly used caan help create that scary feeling when watching.

My Opening to my Portfolio Project (Week one)

I am Mariano, I am thinking of doing the genre's horror and thriller. I am thinking of doing this because not only are they easy to do but they are challenging to do at the same time. Horror uses lighting to be able to create suspense between characters and create the scary feeling.

Thriller causes me to make more of a thought out and more interesting story rather then just relying on the effects. Unlike horror thriller can make the story interesting while at the same time inducing adrenaline to the audience.

This project is a very good way for me to be able to express my creativity through video. I've always been a little interested in making a short film and now this gives me a chance to be able to explore that. The amount of things and ideas that I have for this is amazing and the opportunities that this gives me are endless.