Relevant Course Work

Working on a group project for a class is always challenging, but Film 220 took it a step further. From pre-production to post-production, our class aimed to learn all aspects of the filmmaking process, then film and edit the project before the six-week deadline. We were divided into teams of five, with roles assigned by the teachers, almost arbitrarily. This made it essential to work as a team efficiently and support others when needed. As the first assistant camera person, I volunteered to become the second unit director of photography and second camera operator to assist the current DOP with the heavy workload. Although the web series is far from perfect, given the time and budget constraints, I believe our team made a strong effort to complete the assignment, and we received positive grades and feedback to support this.

Tears and logistics for Masters was a great experience. As the first assistant camera person, I was responsible for switching camera lenses efficiently and moving the camera safely from one position to another. I also pulled focus for every shot, and on the final day of filming, I acted as the gaffer, due to a smaller team. I often referred to the director if it was unclear who I should be focusing on, but usually I relied on my own intuition.

This video essay aimed to explore how the fantasy genre can be used as a medium to highlight the absurdities of everyday life. By hyperbolising certain elements or reframing social norms through a fantastical lens, the genre allows us to see the familiar in unfamiliar ways, offering a fresh perspective. I used Poor Things as a key example, as the film's central fantasy, the character of Bella (a woman with the mind of a child), raises complex social and political questions that we might not typically examine in a more conventional narrative.

Relevant Course Work - Victoria University of Wellington