Camera In Action- Response to PRISM

PRISM by CorridorDigital

The short Youtube film known as "PRISM" is a compelling film with stunning effects and great screenplay to accompany an interesting plot. The film is set sometime in the future, with advanced technology present in the public world.

Lets start off with a few things seen across the entire video. This was filmed with many of the shots using a handheld camera, without a tripod or other stabilizing device. This may have made it seem less cinematic, but in return, caused the action scenes to become more intense and captivating. There were also many scenes that used close ups, which could add to a more emotional feel.

After the intro, the first few scenes gives us an establishing of the setting. We can infer that it the film is taking place in some sort of futuristic rendition of New York City, or any other large, populated city. In these scenes, the background is more dominant, attracting our eyes towards them, but we still acknowledge the existence of the characters by the clever rack focus at 0:28.

Here we can see the connection between the two characters through their conversation and use of the shot/reverse shot. The shot/reverse shot is used to show a conversation without using a two shot, where both actors are seen in the shot.

The lighting in this shot purposely casts shadows across the man's face in order to establish that this man is the main antagonist and will play a major role in ruining the actors' fun, and causing a load of trouble.

In the first screenshot, the scene has high key lighting in order to highlight that they have just escaped trouble. A celebration would be appropriate, until the next scene, where they realize that they haven't escaped just yet. In the second screenshot, the lighting is suddenly low-key in order to show that trouble is nearby and thus, creates suspense.

This is an excellent movement match where the character walks up the wall, and we are cut to the point where he lands and takes down the soldier. This is all done without breaking the 180 degree line, which helps keep continuity and allows the viewer to follow the action.

This film is obviously of the action/sci-fi genre, but this style isn't what you'd see in any old Star Wars movie. This film style gives it a more humane, and less robotic style by using the handheld camera. With a tripod, this movie would look still, and lifeless. The simple fact that the human hand isn't perfectly still, adds that small touch that gives this film more life than other films.