Bare Trailer

 TRAILER X3

This was definitely the most elaborate trailer shoot I have worked on. It was a three day shoot because the Director wanted to include everyone from the cast (there were roughly 25 cast members). There were also numerous different locations: the observatory in Green Templeton College, the Jesus College Chapel, the Worcester College lake, New College Lane, Blenheim Palace, and more. 

I was excited at the prospect of capturing footage at these different locations, but upon reflection I think it was too much and unnecessary given the length and significance of the trailer. We were also unable to complete the trailer at the end of Michaelmas Term, which meant we had to schedule additional shooting dates in January that I had not planned for.

The theme of the trailer is reflection, and there are many beautiful shots that I am happy with. My favourites are those shot in Jesus College Chapel. However, I think that the varying locations read as random to the viewer and there are too many people featured given the length. I think this trailer is a prime example of a great idea that was not communicated to the audience in the way that was anticipated. I do really love the ending though with the two male protagonists walking off together and eventually holding hands. 

We also had such an abundance of footage that we made two trailers. A lot of the footage remained unused, but this meant that we were able to choose the very best shots to use. The additional trailer, the music video, is my favourite of two because I think the narrative reads more clearly. It feels more harmonious. However, I was unaware that we were shooting a music video, so the singing in the video does not match with the audio track. Fortunately I was able to (mostly) cut around this using additional shots as b-roll. We probably had enough footage to make three trailers.

The editing process was different from what I am used to. The production were very specific and would send me the seconds of each clip to be used and the exact seconds in the audio track where they wanted it. There was also a lot of back and forth (four drafts, whereas I normally allow two or three), as they kept changing their minds about the ordering of the footage. There was no creative freedom, which is what I enjoy about editing. It was a great experience in communication and setting boundaries. I am also glad that I got to experience this, as I know this is what working with clients can be like in a professional setting. The trailer is ultimately for the client, and it is therefore important that they are happy with it. They were still dissatisfied with the final trailer (they regretting asking me to rearrange a few shots); however, I do not get paid for these trailer shoots, and I did not have the time to commit to additional drafts. 

It was a good experience and the individual shots will look great in a reel.

-Emma