Cinema is the largest industry in the entertainment field. Film making has developed in a global market and the demand for better films is on the rise. The set is one of the most important parts of a film. Without a set, a movie is simply a group of people standing around doing things, that is, acting! So, making a suitable and interesting set is crucial in making a film, to do justice to the story and to the film itself. To know how to make magnificent movie sets, read the article.
Steps
Method 1 of 2: Before Construction
Step 1. Study the script
The script is one of the most important parts of a film. It contains information about the story, the characters, the plot and all the events that will occur in the film. A meticulous study of the script will give you an idea of what the set should look like.
-
Break the script down into an outline of pictures or scenes. Before you do this, though, ask the writer or production coordinator if they haven't already done it for you. If not, turn a long script into a bunch of small parts. This will make it easier for you to understand every part and every frame of that part of the film. "How would you eat an elephant? Eat one piece at a time."
I hope you got the point!
-
Now view the background and environments where you want to show a part or scene of the movie. Try to draw a storyboard and add visual details of the set. This will make it much easier for you to understand and build the foundation upon which to build it. "You can't build a house without a project!".
- Add details about the color, decor, etc. in the storyboard. In a note, write if other props or props will be used.
-
After carefully thinking about all the items you will need, place them in your set, for the moment still imaginary. Before starting the construction of the set, it is good to observe the relative distance between the objects and whether or not they see each other the way you want.
Step 2. Talk to the director
It is very important to talk to the director about the type of specific items and objects he would like to see and, more importantly, which ones he does not want to see, since the director may not like the idea on which the set was based. The best thing, then, is that you understand what the idea of the set is according to the director, because he is the boss! Plus, this will save you the frustration of rearranging the set later on.
-
The director will also provide you with details regarding your budget (i.e. the budget that is made available to you for the construction of the set), the entire film or a certain area in a scene of the film.
Step 3. Buy all the materials you will need
If Steven Spielberg isn't funding the film, you need to worry about your budget. The best thing to do is to break down your budget for each specific scene, so that you can have detailed information on how to use it effectively. "How would you eat a …?".
You already know what I'm talking about!
Method 2 of 2: Time to Make It Happen
Step 1. Construction begins
Now that the project (s) and the material you bought for the set have been approved by the director, start building the set. Start with objects that are more detailed and take a long time to make, so you can make sure you finish them on time and don't risk rushing at the last minute!
-
If you have to show a specific historical period, it is useful to read up a little on the architecture of the period.
Step 2. Paint and decorate the set
After the set is built, paint it and add any props or objects that will be used in the set.
-
A good idea is to hire a painter or decorator for very detailed objects, such as sculptures, etc.
Step 3. After the set is complete, take some pictures
Then show them to the director. Take pictures regularly after each scene or during breaks to record the changes that occur in each scene. This will make it much easier for you to restore the scene when the shots are repeated.
Step 4. Take note of things
Create dossiers and put your photographs, sketches and notes in them. Always keep these folders with you, to consult them quickly.
Advice
- While sketching a set, highlight specific locations for the background and set.
- It's a good thing to spend a little more on elements that are fundamental to the effectiveness of the film, and cut a little on the less important aspects.
- When shopping for items, try to compare different stores to get the best deals. This way you will save on your budget.
- Giving the director suggestions on possible changes that would make the set more interesting is a good way to improve the film.
-