Brett Bolander and Professor Adrian Pulfer, Visual Arts
My first attempt at filmmaking turned out to be quite a positive experience. I was interested in the possibilities of crossing the disciplines of graphic design and film, and I am glad to find that they can mesh together quite well. One of my initial goals was trying to apply my education in graphics and fine arts into film. My objective was to push the boundaries of traditional graphics into motion. I not only experimented with this, but I learned much about the filming and editing processes as well. I am now excited about the possibility of doing more editing, as I found it a bit more creatively satisfying than the filming itself.
This project ended up taking MUCH more time and effort than I ever anticipated, but I feel the learning experience was worth it. The direction of the film changed several times, as I attempted to solve the problem of the interpretation of the poem text. Although this was frustrating for me at times, I think it was for the best end result. I am very grateful for all the help of many individuals in the community and at BYU. Special thanks are outlined in the film credits, but I will mention some of the key players here: Tom Lefler, Dept of Theater & Film. Tom provided much help with all the resources that I needed to make this film happen. Kyle Snarr, film student. Kyle was key in the filming and editing process. Adrian Pulfer, Dept of Visual Arts. Adrian was my primary advisor on the project, and helped keep the creative in check. Alex Caldiero, voiceover artist. Alex’s voiceover was absolutely vital in getting the feeling of this poem across. I can’t thank him enough. Dan Reneer was also a key player in composing the ambient soundtrack specifically for this film, along with re-recording the credits song “Rocketship” to make it have the perfect feel for the film. Last but not least, Bryan Mangum was a huge help in postproduction work, especially the work done in After Effects.
I am grateful that ORCA was able to see the possibilities in this film project. Without the ORCA funds it would have been impossible, as I wouldn’t have been able to afford it. I am using the last bit of money to send the film out to as many festivals and contests as I possibly can. I will keep ORCA informed of any successes.
p.s. I will be sending ORCA a copy of the film in the form of VHS as opposed to posting stills in this report.