BLUEPRINTS FOR NEW FILMMAKERS: BLOCKING The attached video is the switchboard scene of "The Marvelous Mrs. Maisel," during Season 2. You can see how tight a set can get sometimes. The cast and crew have to ensure their precise choreographed movements work in unison with one another. In this particular scene, you can see how close the camera can get to an actor's face. I know it looks intimidating but the best part is how all the talented actors stay in character even when the camera is not on them. The blocking here is fantastic. LET'S BREAK DOWN A SCENE LIKE THAT WITH ME. So, your script is ready for production. Your producer has everyone ready to go. You film scene after scene for weeks and then come upon a scene that truly is hard to get done and needs actual choreography by everyone on set. How would YOU go about it? Well... The first thing is the STORYBOARD, which is created to show your SHOT LIST. It would visualize how the scene would be shot. This is normally where your camera crew would come together to create the plan with the director, cinematographer (DP), and others. Then... It's the REHEARSALS. The Director and Actors read-through to understand the dialogue and emotional beats step by step. Some pros compare blocking to a stage play where actors have specific spots to be in. Here, the Director decides where everyone will stand, sit, move, and gesture. The Assistant Director (AD) tends to help coordinating this process. Next... Comes LIGHTING, to set the mood and tone. The DP and camera crew prep the Angles and Framing. While the SOUND TEAM position the microphones to capture clear and crisp Audio. Test walkthroughs and adjustments are made. This process could potentially be lengthy unless you have experienced professionals working with you. Following that... We have the TECHNICAL REHEARSAL where everyone rehearses with the cameras, but do NOT record. Now... The Filming starts with ACTION and the SCRIPT SUPERVISOR ensures CONTINUITY while the Director observes the performances. Most times... Multiple takes are captured and YOU, the Director, choses the one with the best performance(s). Lastly... Of course is the POST PRODUCTION but that's a class for another day. Hopefully, you have a better understanding if you are new to the industry. SIDENOTE: Many more people are involved to bring your story to life. The ones I mentioned are merely a few.
That's why a good steadicam operator is worth their weight in gold.
Currently doing storyboards for a new show by the creators of "Marvelous Mrs. Maisel", Amy Sherman Paladino and Daniel Paladino. Very talented people!
That was a beautifully written show, where the film magic was plentiful and in service to the story. Well, until the last two seasons, which were quite sloppy in writing if competently but unispiredly executed
Amazing how the steadicam, helps a lot the cameraman, to do shot in several angles, in a good quality film🎬🎥.
Really insightful post, thank you for sharing Angelo Rocha . What one piece of advice would you give a new actor going through the blocking process to make your life easier?
Amazing scene! Take that AI!
What's the name of this film
How flawlessly the scene has come to life. Every actor knew exactly what to do and when. True craftsmanship.
So cool! Thank you.
Executive Producer | Screenwriter | Financier | Investor | Filmmaker at Hazard Films
2moPlease like, share, and possibly even comment. Especially, if are a new filmamker or know someone who is.