In the black heart of the country

As almost two weeks have passed, I figure it's time to recap the experience of REEL 4, the latest Spectral Films production.



REEL 4 has been a unique experience for a number of reasons.



First off, this is the first film in the Spectral canon to be lensed on film (albeit small gauge - Super 8). Having last shot on film as a DoP in 2004, it was a good feeling to get that fear back. All too often, there is a tendency among filmmakers to become complacent when you have endless reams of tape at your disposal. Although there is an inherent safety net with shooting on digital which is valuable, it's not an excuse to let planning and prep fall by the wayside. The simple fact of having a finite amount of stock (in this case, 3 minutes 20) makes you think, prepare and work smarter and harder. I guess what I'm trying to say is that filmmakers need that sense of fear, that sense of the unknown. I really do think it shows through in the end result.



The pressure of film stock and getting it right was exacerbated by the fact that REEL 4 was a one take deal. As per the instructions at Straight8.net, the film had to be edited in camera and therefore everything had to be right for the one and only take. One word, people... rehearsals.

In the bleak midwinter...

Apparently, this is supposed to be Spring.

As I look out of the window across Sheffield, I can't help but feel a little trepidation given the current state of the weather. The reason for this unease is that on Sunday we are shooting the next Spectral Films production, most of which is scheduled for exterior shooting in the Peak District.

The British weather is an unpredictable beast at the best of times, but as hopeful as I am that we'll have glorious sunshine and dry conditions, I do have someone in close proximity to the shooting location reporting on a daily basis on the state of the weather over there. If the worst comes to the worst, we'll move the action indoors. Adapt to survive is the rule of the day.

I'm not revealing too much about the project for a reason that will become clear when the film is completed, but what I can say is that I hope it is as disturbing as it was to pre-visualize and storyboard. We're shooting on Super 8 (a first for me) which will lend credence to the illusion of the film's retro leanings. And above all, this film is very, very bleak.

There is no escape. There is no hope. Three and a half minutes of gruelling terror in REEL 4.