Visual
Look
I'm not sure which cameras were used in the making of this
production, though they seemed to be standard, low-cost
DV cameras, judging from the image quality, luminance, and
contrast. Though it is possible that more expensive cameras
were used and then the project was down-rezzed to feel more
like something from the '70's. [I talked with the director
later and found out that he specifically chose a $300 DV
camera to get a less sophisiticated look that would more
closely resemble degraded '70's TV show stock.]
Despite
the lower footage and somewhat jumpy editing (which was
probably intentional, considering the genre!), there are
some pretty interesting camera angles and shots. Lots of
experimenting went into getting actors to jump over cameras
or setting up cameras at odd angles in stair wells as characters
rushed past them.
Use
of Audio
The audio was surprisingly clear, all told. The voice work
sounded fairly clean, though rough enough to sound on par
with TV shows from the '70's.
To add
to the retro wardrobe and shooting style, lots of overdone
synth music is added to give this film a Hill Street Blues
meets Miami Vice feel that seems to tie in well with the
'70's. (Yes, I know both shows were in the '80's. Doesn't
change the feel of the music!)
Use
of Budget
There were a surprisingly large number of shots in this
short film, which could have eaten up budgetary dollars.
With that taken into account, the $1,500.00 price tag seems
fairly reasonable. (Although, there were a few times where
script choices should have reflected the budget. For example,
a "warehouse" scene clearly took place in someone's
house. Why not simply write the scene as occuring at a fugitive's
house or at a police safehouse?)
Lasting
Appeal
It's amusing the first few times you watch it. I've watched
it a few times myself, as well as shown it three different
times to different reviewers and members of our staff. There
were at least a few chortles from everyone who watched it,
which is a pretty good representation of humor.
As a
series, it's a workable pilot episode, if a bit on the short
side due to budget constraints and whatnot.
Overall
Comment
This is a pretty amusing little short. Not flawless, but
pretty creative nonetheless. Definitely worth downloading
from their site and watching! I look forward to seeing new
episodes!
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Content
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7.5
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Visual
Look
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7.0
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Use
of Audio
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8.5
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Use
of Budget
|
8.0
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Lasting
Appeal
|
7.0
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Overall
Score
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7.6
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