James Alexander and Professor Thomas Russell, Theatre and Media Arts

The short film Shaving is an adaptation of a simple yet powerful short story of the same name by the Welsh author Leslie Norris. Upon first reading it, this story resonated with me; its beautiful message about preparing for and coping with loss is important and can be helpful to the human experience. The visual nature of Norris’ writing inspired me. I wanted to bring this story to a wider audience. Adapting the story to short film made this possible; it also provided me and several other film students with an opportunity to apply knowledge gained in the classroom and from projects in a practical setting.

There is no better education for filmmakers than making a movie. However, making films is expensive, expansive, and time consuming. The short film model is excellent for film students. Because it tends to cost less, it allows for practice and encourages experimentation. Because it is shorter it demands discipline and efficiency. The short story Shaving was 5 ½ pages, the script was 10 pages, and the final film is a little over 10 minutes. Although only ten minutes long, the film was a significant challenge and required the collaboration of over 40 students.

The individuals involved in this project shared common goals. Aside from the actors, no one was paid for their efforts. The decision to participate was based upon each individual’s connection to the story and their common goal to tell it in a unique way that would reach a large audience. The decision to participate was also based on their desire to learn more about their prospective area of filmmaking in a real on-set experience. This report will review these goals, it will chronicle some of the experiences had (both successes and failures), and hopefully shed light on how valuable this opportunity was for all those involved.

The filmmaking process is split into three areas: pre-production, production, and post production. Pre-production for Shaving included writing the script, assembling a crew, hiring actors, drafting contracts, acquiring locations, wardrobe, art, equipment, etc. Writing the screenplay for Shaving was difficult but very rewarding. The producer of Shaving set up script readings where people of all types could experience the script and offer their suggestions. These readings were invaluable. From them I learned what worked and what needed to improve. Most importantly, I was reminded of the distinct and powerful effects that stories have on each individual. Several of those who read the script offered very helpful suggestions that were based off of their personal experience. These suggestions were included in re-writes and improved the screenplay.

Finding the right actors for this story was hard. Two casting sessions were set up where actors from many agencies were invited to come and audition. After two days of casting, options for everyone but the main character were found. In attempt to find the right actor, the producer and casting director suggested that a third casting session be set up. It was setup and hardly anyone came. We were disheartened. Just as the session was about to end, a young actor wandered in. He was the perfect person for the role. Because of other’s dedication and perhaps a little help from above, the right actor was found. We were able to use some of the grant money to pay our actors and the film was blessed because of it.

Production is where all the preparation paid off. Shaving was filmed in three days in locations around Provo Utah. Working with the crew for Shaving was perhaps the most rewarding aspect of this project. Despite busy schedules and other obligations, students dedicated their time and talents to tell this story. Students chose what they wanted to do on the project. This gave them an opportunity to start doing what they want to do professionally now. The production was set up like a professional film would be, just on a smaller scale. The necessary roles were filled; there was a producer, a director, department heads with their respected crew members, etc. Meetings were regularly held where roles were defined and tasks given. More experienced students served as mentors. It was a great learning model. Because everyone was well aware that this was a learning experience, there were no dumb questions, people could communicate freely. Thanks to the combined efforts of over 40 students, Brigham Young University, and the grant money this project was awarded, a real on-set atmosphere was created, promising connections were made, and on-set experience was gained. The crew of Shaving was passionate about the story, eager to learn more about their trade, and thanks to this opportunity they were allowed to create a short film that will remind them of their hard work and help them in their professional careers.

The most difficult thing about Shaving was finding a way to present its emotional theme cinematically. This story is about a son who is losing his father. The son needs to know the father believes in him and the father needs to be humble enough to pass over the mantle of responsibility with confidence, hoping he did all he could to prepare his son. I spent hours mulling over the script deciding how to present this story. The style of filming, acting, art design, color, line, composition, proximity of shot, use of space, exposure, are just some of the things I concerned myself with. Theories and techniques I learned in class were helpful in deciding the appropriate approach. My mentor Thomas Russell, who is a great filmmaker and who lost a loved one, helped me approach the subject matter in a way that others could relate to. Other crew members helped me see things from a different perspective. In the end, it was working with others that helped me form the appropriate cinematic vision. This was a valuable lesson.

Post production includes editing, sound design, music, and distribution (in this case BYU TV and submissions to film festivals). Post production for Shaving was not nearly as organized or impressive as production was. Because there was no plan, it got put off. We filmed in March and editing was not finished until October. I have learned the importance of planning every step and enduring to the end. We are currently working on sound and music for Shaving and the film is turning out great. It is simple yet carries a sincere message. The film was submitted to the Cannes Film Festival and we plan on submitting it to several more. We still hope to show the film on BYU TV and will be submitting it for approval once it is finished. We plan to have the film finished by the end of January.

This was an experience that will help me professionally. I want to be a writer and a director and this allowed me to practice and experiment with those skills. It allowed me to form lasting relationships and helped me to grow as a person and filmmaker. My one hope is that this short film, with its simple but sweet message, will help lift someone up.