“Every film should have its own world, a logic and feel to it that expands beyond the exact image that the audience is seeing.”-Christopher Nolan
As one of the most popular mediums for pastimes, movies make up the bulk of our entertainment. However, the process and creative development of creating one are often overlooked. The Filmmaking Club takes an in-depth analysis of these concepts and discusses how one makes a good film. The ultimate goal for the club is to produce a film of its own by the end of the year.
Filmmaking is a process that cannot and should not be rushed. At the most recent meeting, the club explored the idea: Don’t touch the fish. Now, what does a fish have to do with making a movie? Well, the idea refers to sushi masters’ arduous process of making perfect sushi. As stated, one should not touch the fish until they have mastered the rice. Rice is the most fundamental and simple part of sushi and even outside of sushi-making is one of the most basic and common foods to cook. If done carefully and correctly, rice is the perfect base for a sushi master to build upon with their fish. However, without a solid base, the process will be wrong.
Like a piece of sushi, without a solid base, a filmmaker cannot explore and flush out their ideas. One can jump to large goals, like making a massive sci-fi flick, but without a good story or even the basics of camera technique, how can one succeed? Reiterated in the club is the idea of a solid base. Ideas like an interesting and coherent story, proper pacing, and solid camera work are important parts to build a solid film. What good is a massive set if all that is seen is just a cricket, and the director never zooms out? What good is a visually sophisticated space movie if the story and characters are bland? What good is a hero movie if the protagonist never faces hardships and doesn’t grow as a character? Without these cornerstones, the film will crumble and not be successful. The Club’s focus on the fundamentals is extremely important and integral to the process of becoming a good filmmaker.
The Filmmaking Club does not have the budget of a Christopher Nolan blockbuster. However, with their focus on the fundamentals, it will succeed in making an excellent film.
So, if you are interested in making a film or want to learn more about the process, contact Austin Keith ’24 and Mr. Patterson for more information.
Stay tuned to the Roundup for more club spotlights around Jesuit.