Making a Horror Short Film: Night Hag Directors Commentary
In this video, we discuss how to make a horror short film by sitting down with Brandon Champ Robinson. He gives a Director's breakdown of Imagination Upgraded's new Horror Short Film, "Night Hag."
00:00 - The Inception of "Night Hag"
01:03 - Channel Introduction
01:21 - Beginning of Director’s Commentary
03:33 - Discussing the Idea of “You make your film 3 times.”
05:11 - Digital Push & Dutch Angles
05:51 - Leaning Into the Darkness.
09:42 - The Importance of Proper Scheduling.
10:19 - Step Your Game Up with Filmmaker Academy.
11:24 - Discussing Color Contrast.
12:21 - Too Dark?
13:50 - Creature Sound Design
14:13 - Not the Intended Ending?
15:55 - Conclusion and Key Takeaways
00:00 - The Inception of "Night Hag":
The video starts by explaining where the idea for "Night Hag" came from and how it was developed. As we move into the video, I break down the opening scene by explaining how it was lit and which light sources were used. I then explain how I used Davinci Resolve to enhance the lighting coming into the room by using the Light Rays plug-in and the Sidus Link app and some of the things I feel could have been done better with the lighting.
03:33 - Discussing the Idea of “You make your film 3 times:"
When it comes to making a film, it is said that the film is made three times: once in the writing process, once during filming, and once during editing.
05:11 - Digital Push & Dutch Angles:
I then describe my use of the 'Digital Push-in' technique. This technique is used during post-production and allows for a slight movement effect to be added to a shot during the editing process. Additionally, I explain what a 'Dutch Angle' is and its most common usage.
05:51 - Leaning Into the Darkness
In this short I decided to lean into the darkness heavy, maybe a little too heavy at times.
09:42 - The Importance of Proper Scheduling:
When it comes to any kind of shoot, scheduling is crucial, especially for a one-day shoot. In my recent experience, I realized that I could have scheduled one of my actresses better. If I had done so, she wouldn't have had to sit around for such a long time.
10:19 - Step Your Game Up with Filmmaker Academy:
Are you passionate about making films but feel like you're not progressing in your craft? As someone who's been there, I can assure you that Filmmaker Academy by Shane Hurlbut is the real deal. Since I started using it, my filmmaking skills have improved significantly. With Filmmaker Academy, you'll get access to exclusive tutorials, masterclasses, and a supportive community to help you take your filmmaking game to the next level.
And the best part? By using the promo code CHAMP25 and clicking the link below, you can save 25% on the Annual Membership. Don't miss out on this opportunity to make a real investment in your filmmaking future. Join Filmmaker Academy today and start producing the films you've always dreamed of!
11:24 - Discussing Color Contrast:
As we proceed, we talk about using color contrast and how it can be used to create a more interesting visual.
12:21 - Too Dark?
I admit. I may have gone too dark.
13:50 - Creature Sound Design:
I absolutely have to give props where props are due. Sound design in horror is extremely important. Our Night Hag actress not only brought the look but came with the sounds to match!
14:13 - Not the Intended Ending?:
Finally, I discuss the differences between how Night Hag was supposed to end versus how it actually ended. I emphasize the importance of collaboration and the willingness to pivot.
*********Gear used for "Night Hag"*********
*Camera 🎥*
DSMC2 Red Scarlet-W
*Lenses*
Rokinon Xeen 16mm - https://amzn.to/43RyFWj
Rokinon Xeen 35mm - https://amzn.to/43NCcFg
Rokinon Xeen 85mm https://amzn.to/3JoKYAd
*Lights*
Aputure 600D: https://amzn.to/4aA7UaU
Amaran 100d - https://amzn.to/4alqqnJ
*Camera Support*
Benro S8 Tripod: https://amzn.to/4aFJ4qh
SmallHD 702: https://amzn.to/3VFe8Cn
SmallHD 17inch Monitor
Tilta Nucleus-M Follow Focus: https://amzn.to/49ll5eX
Filmmaker Academy Discount Link and Code
https://bit.ly/FACHAMP25
Promo Code: CHAMP25
SUBSCRIBE: https://bit.ly/IU-Suscribe
Follow Champ on Social!
/ directedbychamp_
https://www.x.com/directedbychamp
/ directedbychamp
––––
About Imagination Upgraded:
Imagination Upgraded is a full-service production house and boutique movie studio.
*Imagination Upgraded Socials*
Follow On Instagram: / imagination_upgraded
Follow on X: https://bit.ly/IU-Twittter
Follow on Facebook: https://bit.ly/iu-facebook
Subscribe to our Newsletter: https://bit.ly/iu-newsletter
Visit our Website: https://bit.ly/imaginationupgraded
