Amongst the documentaries and non-fiction series we have viewed both in and out of class- it has clarified even more what I have noticed is my preference in topics, and just general film style. Still, I remain to favor a wide range of either categories.

A few techniques and general styles that were used specifically to contribute to the general topic and message the film makers were trying to portray. One of these techniques was the usage of audio and emphasis on such topic. By using audio, it was placed on the specific scene it had matched, and then to create a smooth and continuous transition- the audio was overlapped to the next scene. This had intrigued me and seemed quite effective in its use towards a “proper” transition.

Another prominent technique I have absorbed from the viewing of these multiple non-fiction videos is yet- another effect for transition. By noticing that there are copious ways to create a transition helps one notice that they are highly valued aspects that make a film considered “cinematic”. Yes, you can have one run on clip that does not contain any sort of transition, but it will portray a different style, and might not fully maximize the clarity of the message the film maker is trying to produce. The other transitional technique I had noticed was the cut to a relating clip. Such as, in “Baraka” the non-narrative documentary film there is a point where there was a shot of a tattooed man. With the focus of varying cultures and beliefs in this film- it is evident that the man and his tattoos are a form of symbolism. What they symbolize- is open to varying translation from viewer to viewer. After the showing of the tattooed man, the following clip is of a young boy who has a painted face. My first initial reaction is that these two shots were specifically placed next to each other in hopes to contribute to the analytical view of what each culture contains and the variance symbolism and tradition.

With the viewings of a large range of techniques and styles used in non-fiction films, it makes one think what would be the most effective way to portray a message. In our case, my group was brainstorming the idea of creating a documentary style short film on a relevant and current dilemma. The dilemma that is the University of Maine’s pothole problem and the current state of the campus roads and it’s effect on not only the students, but everyone.

Once talking it over for the first time, we came to the conclusion that this film would be at it’s “best” if we approached in the most non-biased way possible. Yes, we are all rather frustrated students, whom in which most have personally driven over these said potholes and have experienced them in a negative manner. Although, we would like this to be an informative film that acknowledges the conflict in an informative way, and not in the sense of trying to push our emotions and/or opinions on the viewer. These goals can be reached by using specific techniques through filming styles, audio, editing, color grading etc.

One technique we had discussed was the use of overlapping audio. For example, using an interview of someone (having them discuss their views, experiences and advice on the roads). As the interview continues to play, we could cut out parts of the visuals and put b-role of different shots around campus but keep the remaining audio from the interview to play over. This is a common technique I have seen in multiple documentary films. One can assume that this can be used as a tool to “paint the picture” of what is being discussed a little more clear.

Another idea that our group has discussed was the use of home-video style footage to input throughout. This type of format can usually be seen in news clips where there is a discussion of some topic and then, usually a civilian will submit personal footage to contribute. With these inputted, different style videos it can put a dilemma such as University of Maine’s roads into more of a personal perspective- by viewing a legitimate bystanders experience. As we discussed further, we came to the conclusion that it would be useful to input a clip of (possibly over the shoulder) of someone driving and narrating as they continued along a road filled with gaping potholes.

So, overall my group had come to the conclusion to create a documentary style film on the focus of University of Maine’s Pothole dilemma and the effects it causes on multiple different groups of individuals. With such a large group of people to be dealt with- we would like to approach this topic with a non-biased view (although it will be rather difficult). This topic is relevant, on-going, and hits multiple personal problems for majority of the school. For instance, this technically does not just affect an individual who has a car or is a commuter, but can affect on-campus walking individuals as well. My group consists of Tommy Daly, Tim Clark, Katie Stewart, Tyler D’Ambrosio and myself (Olivia Burton). As for roles on the creation of this film, we had agreed to all film some footage- due to the demand that we do not need any actors. For editing, we had agreed to let Tyler have the role. Inevitably, with the audio it will go hand-in-hand with the filming on the purpose of whoever is filming at that specific time will have someone recording external audio. We had all decided on this free-forming way for roles due to the dilemma of finding a place and time where everyone can meet. We all have differing schedules, and since filming and creating footage does not necessarily need five members all working together at once- we had decided to split it up in hopes to have a less confused and in a sense more simplified way of working. With filming and collecting footage at all different times, we have created a Team Drive folder on Google Drive so that we all have access to everything that has been filmed.

Our plan for where this is going to be filmed is rather sporadic. Yes, we will be filming on location of where these potholes are located (capturing b-role- maybe a time-lapse as well). Another location, would be where the interviews are held. Since we are anticipating on multiple interviews to be held it is safe to say that they will have varying places based on whom and when we interview.

Potential Interview Questions:

• Whats your name?
• Are you a student here? (If not, explain.)
• Do you live on campus or off?
• Are you often walking or traveling by car?
• When did you first start noticing the pothole dilemma?

• Have you or someone you know received damage sourcing from the potholes?

• What do you think should be done? If anything, is there a specific time frame this should be done in?

• Do you think the University is doing the best the can with this dilemma?
• Say you were driving and hit a pothole- your tire pops and you have to pay for repairs. What would you personally do after that? Would you be assertive and contact the school?
• Do you think danger can source from these potholes? How and why?
• Have you heard about the petition traveling around campus about repairing the roads? If so, have you signed it? Why?
• Do you think there is an alternative that we can take action towards preventing these in the future?

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