Regarding my final product I believe it was a successful project however I am not 100% happy with how it turned out as I would have liked some better shots using better lighting and longer rushes but with the limited time I had I just had to make do with what I could get due to track opening times and limited lighting with the flood lights.
I believe my inspirations from both case studies merged together well using informative interview style mixed with the nostalgic artistic feel from the archive footage and choice of music paired with the darker lighting and heavy vignette.
Overall I believe the idea was good and personal to me so I enjoyed the whole process however I think I was let down due to the lack of practical footage which was mainly down to lack of availability and organisation of ideas which I can focus more on in future projects.
My first shoot with Jamie was down at the track and we did our interview questions, where i gave Jamie free range on his answers allowing him to dive deep.
For Shoot two we went into the gym and got a few rushes of him doing a weight training session to use as dynamic shots in the the film.
Then for the final shoot we went down to the track and filmed him doing a training session and interacting with his coach, i believe this shoot was where i could gather the best shots.
The Turner Brothers, Gabe and Ben, are filmmakers recognized for their distinct and captivating style, exemplified in their documentary “I Am Bolt,” which chronicles the life and career of Olympic sprinting legend Usain Bolt. Their filmmaking approach combines elements of intimate storytelling, dynamic visuals, and a deep understanding of their subject matter.
One notable aspect of the Turner Brothers’ filmmaking style is their ability to capture intimate and candid moments with their subjects. In “I Am Bolt,” they offer viewers unprecedented access to Usain Bolt’s personal life, showcasing not only his achievements on the track but also the challenges, sacrifices, and emotions behind his success. Through a combination of interviews, behind-the-scenes footage, and vérité scenes, the Turner Brothers create a portrait of Bolt that is both larger-than-life and profoundly human.
Visually, the Turner Brothers employ a dynamic and engaging style that keeps viewers immersed in the story. From high-energy race sequences to quiet moments of reflection, every frame is meticulously composed and visually striking. The use of slow-motion, fast cuts, and vibrant colors adds a sense of excitement and energy to the film, mirroring Bolt’s own electrifying presence on the track.
In addition to their visual flair, the Turner Brothers demonstrate a deep understanding of their subject matter and a willingness to explore complex themes. “I Am Bolt” goes beyond the surface-level portrayal of Bolt as a sporting icon, delving into his upbringing in Jamaica, his relationship with his family and teammates, and the pressures of fame and success. Through interviews with Bolt himself, as well as his friends, family, and coaches, the Turner Brothers offer insights into the psychology of a champion and the inner workings of elite-level athletics.
Another key aspect of the Turner Brothers’ filmmaking style is their use of music to enhance the emotional impact of their films. In “I Am Bolt,” the soundtrack features a mix of pulsating beats, anthemic melodies, and reflective tunes that complement the narrative arc of Bolt’s journey. Whether it’s the exhilarating sound of crowds cheering during a race or the introspective strains of a piano melody during moments of introspection, the music serves to heighten the emotional resonance of the film and draw viewers deeper into Bolt’s world.
Overall, the Turner Brothers’ filmmaking style is characterized by its ability to blend intimate storytelling, dynamic visuals, and emotional depth. In “I Am Bolt,” they offer a multifaceted portrait of Usain Bolt that celebrates his extraordinary achievements while also humanizing him as a person. Through their innovative approach to documentary filmmaking, the Turner Brothers have created a film that resonates with audiences on both an emotional and intellectual level, leaving a lasting impression long after the credits roll.
Coodie Simmons is a filmmaker known for his distinctive style characterized by a raw and intimate approach to storytelling. With a background in music videos, documentaries, and sports content, Simmons has developed a unique cinematic language that combines elements of vérité filmmaking, stylized visuals, and authentic human emotion.
One hallmark of Simmons’ style is his use of vérité techniques, which prioritize capturing unscripted moments and genuine interactions. This approach imbues his films with a sense of immediacy and realism, allowing viewers to feel like they are experiencing events alongside the subjects. Simmons often employs handheld cameras and natural lighting to further enhance this sense of intimacy, creating a fly-on-the-wall perspective that invites audiences into the world of his subjects.
In addition to vérité techniques, Simmons is known for his innovative visual storytelling. He frequently incorporates stylized cinematography, dynamic editing, and creative use of music to enhance the emotional impact of his films. Whether he is capturing the energy of a live performance or exploring the personal struggles of his subjects, Simmons’ visual style is both immersive and evocative, drawing viewers deeper into the narrative.
Simmons’ background in music videos has also influenced his filmmaking style, particularly in his use of music as a narrative tool. He has a keen ear for selecting tracks that complement the tone and themes of his films, using music to underscore emotional moments, drive the pace of the story, and create a sense of atmosphere. This synergy between image and sound is a defining characteristic of Simmons’ work, elevating his films beyond mere documentary into the realm of cinematic artistry.
One of Simmons’ most notable projects is the documentary film “A Kid From Coney Island,” which chronicles the life and career of former NBA star Stephon Marbury. In this film, Simmons employs his signature vérité style to provide an intimate portrait of Marbury’s journey from humble beginnings to basketball stardom. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews, and vérité scenes, Simmons captures the highs and lows of Marbury’s career with honesty and depth, painting a nuanced portrait of a complex and enigmatic figure.
In addition to his work in documentary filmmaking, Simmons has also directed narrative projects that showcase his versatility as a filmmaker. Whether he is telling real-life stories or crafting fictional narratives, Simmons’ commitment to authenticity and emotional honesty remains constant. His films are imbued with a sense of humanity and empathy, inviting audiences to connect with the characters and themes on a deeply personal level.
Overall, Coodie Simmons’ filmmaking style is characterized by its rawness, intimacy, and emotional resonance. Whether he is capturing the thrill of victory on the basketball court or the quiet moments of introspection behind the scenes, Simmons approaches each project with a commitment to truth and authenticity that shines through in every frame. Through his innovative visual storytelling and keen sense of narrative, Simmons continues to push the boundaries of documentary filmmaking, creating work that is both compelling and unforgettable.
In this screen shot you can see the structure of a section of the film, with the green being the underscore as well as the darker blue being other types of audio, the solid blue blocks are the different videos.
In this screen capture you can see how i have layered the different audios to create an ambient score throughout with Jamies dialogue and different environmental sounds layered on top, the use of the underscore can create a narrative within itself and i wanted to partially explore that using a song that slowly builds up until the end.
And like my case study documentary by Coodie Simmons, i wanted to use editing to portray part of the narrative so that is what i tried in my film.
How has filmmaker, Turner brothers and Coodie Simmons constructed a narrative in their work/ film?
My Topic Area of study is documentary film making . This topic is important to be as my whole life I have been involved in sports, mainly athletics and I believe the struggles and obstacles often needed to overcome are not spoken about enough. For my creative inspiration i chose the turner brothers due to the fact they made the documentary ‘I am bolt’ which is a similar theme, I have also chose Coodie Simmons who made ‘Jeen – yuhs’ a documentary about Kanye wests life, I chose this due to the style of his work and his use of archival footage paired with present day to express emotion and tension. I will be comparing and contrasting the two film products and there construction of a narrative to build a relation to the subject and the viewer but also build a story that leaves a lasting thought.
The history of documentary in film and photography spans over a century and has had a profound impact on the way we perceive and understand the world around us. It all began with the advent of cameras in the late 1800s, which allowed for the capture of real-life events and the telling of stories through visual imagery. In the early years, documentary photography emerged as a powerful tool for documenting reality and shedding light on social issues. Renowned photographers such as Lewis Hine and Dorothea Lange used their cameras to expose the harsh realities of poverty, child labour, and inequality, giving a voice to the voiceless and driving social change. As technology advanced, documentary filmmaking took center stage. These films aimed to capture the authenticity of real-life experiences, providing audiences with a window into different cultures and perspectives. Realism in art aims to depict subjects as they truly are, without any embellishments or exaggerations. Its focus is on capturing the authenticity and unfiltered essence of everyday life.
Coodie Simmons, a renowned filmmaker and music video director, masterfully crafts a narrative in his “Jeen YUHS: A Kanye Trilogy” by employing various techniques and storytelling devices. Through his meticulous direction, Simmons weaves together three distinct documentaries that shed light on different facets of Kanye West’s life and career.
In the first instalment, “Through the Wire,” Simmons employs a chronological approach to showcase Kanye’s journey from his early years to his meteoric rise in the music industry. This narrative structure allows viewers to grasp the progression of events and understand the challenges Kanye faced along the way. By utilizing interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes glimpses, Simmons creates an immersive experience that captures the essence of Kanye’s creative process and the impact of his ground breaking debut album, “The College Dropout.”
Moving on to the second part, “Jesus Walks,” Simmons delves into the spiritual dimension of Kanye West’s artistry. Here, he employs a thematic narrative approach, exploring the influence of religion on Kanye’s music and personal life. Through in-depth interviews with Kanye and those close to him, Simmons delves into the controversies surrounding Kanye’s album “Yeezus” and examines the profound impact of his Sunday Service events. By intertwining these elements, Simmons constructs a narrative that highlights the transformative power of spirituality in Kanye’s artistic expression.
Lastly, in the third instalment, “Fade,” Simmons shifts his focus to Kanye’s evolution as an artist and his ventures beyond music. Employing a hybrid narrative structure, Simmons combines elements of a character study and a behind-the-scenes documentary. He delves into Kanye’s foray into the fashion industry, particularly his Yeezy brand, and examines his impact on the fashion landscape. By showcasing Kanye’s creative process, collaborations, and the challenges he faces in this realm, Simmons constructs a narrative that reveals the multi-faceted nature of Kanye West as an artist and entrepreneur.
Throughout the trilogy, Simmons employs technical terms such as editing techniques, cinematography, and narrative structure to enhance the storytelling experience. For instance, he utilizes cross-cutting to juxtapose different moments in Kanye’s life, creating a sense of contrast and highlighting the evolution of his artistry.
In I am bolt to create narrative in the documentary, the directors employs various techniques. One of the key methods is through interviews. By interviewing the athletes, coaches, and families, the director can gather first hand accounts and personal stories. These interviews provide insights into the sacrifices and dedication required to excel in sports at a young age. They allow the audience to connect with the athletes on a deeper level, understanding their motivations, fears, and aspirations.
In addition to interviews, the director utilizes behind-the-scenes footage. This footage offers a glimpse into the training sessions, competitions, and daily lives of the teenage athletes. By showcasing the athletes’ routines, struggles, and triumphs, the director brings authenticity and realism to the documentary. The audience gets to witness the hard work and determination that goes into pursuing a career in sports at such a young age.
official trailer of i am bolt
To enhance the sense of realism, the director pays attention to small details. They capture the athletes’ expressions, body language, and interactions with others. These subtle nuances help convey the emotions and challenges faced by the teenage athletes. Close-up shots are used to highlight the intensity and focus in their eyes, while natural lighting adds a sense of authenticity to the scenes. Realistic settings, such as training facilities and competition venues, further immerse the audience in the world of the athletes.
By exploring the social issues surrounding teenage athletes, the director adds depth to the narrative. They shed light on the pressures faced by young athletes, including balancing academics, social lives, and rigorous training schedules. The documentary also delves into the impact on families, showcasing the sacrifices made by parents and siblings to support the athletes’ dreams. Through these stories, the director humanizes the athletes, reminding the audience that they are not just sports icons, but individuals with dreams, struggles, and aspirations.
Overall, both documentaries showcase the power of narrative storytelling to offer nuanced insights into the lives and careers of their subjects. Through meticulous storytelling and technical expertise, Simmons and the director of “I am Bolt” engage audiences and provide a deeper understanding of the complexities of talent, ambition, and perseverance.
For my personal study I intend on exploring the challenges and rewards of being a dedicated athlete during teenage years. As i have grown up around athletics, thinking of the different stages of mine and my friends athletics journey gives me my own sense of nostalgia. To explore this I will be creating a documentary revolving around Jersey Spartan A.C and my friend Jamie Oldham, who in island games, national championships, English schools championships and the youth commonwealth games in 2023 also becoming jerseys fastest 100 and 200 meter runner breaking both island records at the same competition. Over the last few years i have trained and competed with Jamie and witnessed his challenges as well as his successes and i believe his story and insight of physical and mental health in the world of athletics will be interesting to hear for people of all age groups.
My creative inspiration will be “I am bolt” and jeen-yuhs: a Kanye trilogy. I am using these as i believe the production of them is top tier especially when it comes to the narrative and the use of editing to convey the narrative .
my first shoot will be an interview in which I ask Jamie question about his personal life and his athletics his career allowing the viewers to gain a more personal connection with him, my second photoshoot will be shots of him training at the track to show more exciting action shots finally i will be filming his morning routine to get an incite on his daily life.
Archives are repositories that hold a vast array of records, documents, and materials that provide insights into the past. These materials can include historical documents, photographs, letters, diaries, maps, audio recordings, videos, and so much more. They’re like treasure troves of knowledge, preserving our collective memory and allowing us to understand and appreciate the experiences of those who came before us.
One of the primary purposes of archives is to ensure the preservation and accessibility of these valuable records. Archivists, the guardians of the archives, work tirelessly to organize, catalog, and protect these materials. They use specialized techniques and technologies to ensure the long-term preservation of the documents, preventing them from deteriorating over time. This way, future generations can continue to explore and learn from our history.
Archives play a crucial role in historical research and scholarship. They provide researchers with primary sources, which are original documents or materials created during the time period being studied. These primary sources allow historians to delve deep into the past, uncovering hidden stories, and gaining new perspectives. By examining firsthand accounts and artifacts, historians can piece together a more accurate and nuanced understanding of historical events and the people involved.
But archives aren’t just for historians and researchers. They are also valuable resources for the general public. Archives provide a window into our shared heritage, allowing anyone with an interest in history to connect with the past. Whether you’re tracing your family tree, studying the history of your community, or simply curious about a particular time period, archives offer a wealth of information waiting to be explored.
In addition to their historical significance, archives also serve practical purposes in the present. Government archives, for example, preserve official records that are essential for administrative purposes, legal proceedings, and accountability. They ensure that important information is accessible when needed, contributing to the smooth functioning of society.
Nowadays, archives have expanded beyond physical buildings. With the advent of digital technology, many archives have embraced digitization, making their collections accessible online. This has greatly increased the availability and reach of archival materials, allowing people from all over the world to explore and engage with historical documents without having to physically visit the archives.
This film is a photo film about the occupation of Jersey during World War II. I’ve gathered some archival images and taken my own photos to showcase the history and resilience of the local community. It’s a powerful journey through time, exploring the streets and stories of that era.
