Lines Episode 3 Teaser Trailer

Here is the teaser trailer of the third episode of Lines, which is due to air tomorrow night.

Lines Episode 2

Here is the second episode of Lines, which was edited by Matt. Hope you enjoy!

Arranging The Casting - 27/01/10

Today, I emailed all the cast members telling them that we shall be filming the third episode of Lines tomorrow afternoon. Here is a screengrab of the email.

Episode 2 Teaser Trailer

This is the teaser trailer to the second episode of Lines, which will be on air this Friday. This trailer was made due to the fact that the deadline had been extended for the second episode. Enjoy!

Lines Episode 2 Poster

Here is the poster to the second episode of Lines, which will be airing on Friday 29th January at 7:00 pm. This poster is very eye catching and looks very good with the effects. Once this has been put up, it will hopefully attract more people to tune in for the second episode and also going back to watch the first episode. Fingers crossed!

Class Feedback From The First Episode

After the launch of the first episode of Lines, the episode was shown to the whole class and they gave us feedback. After listing both sets of feedback, from the class and from Pete, our teacher. The feedback from the class is as follows:

Sound levels need improving (some bits are louder than others) (Mentioned 5 times)
CD films logo too long (Mentioned 4 times)
Credits are too fast at the end (Mentioned 3 times)
Poor acting
Opening sequence is to repetitive
Editing of the video is good & works well
Nice logos, they look well made and effective to the audience
Poorly recorded narration
Inappropriate music used throughout the video (including the opening sequence)
Camera work could be better
Too many cuts
Script is too basic
Poor cuts used
Poorly planned
The actors need rehearsals before acting in next video as they don't seem very confident in the first episode (Mentioned 3 times)
Catchy song works well (Mentioned 3 times)
The stereotypes are not clearly shown in the 1st episode
Need more close ups
Need more core content
Visual gags of skeleton work well
Need more comedy rather than drama to make it more comedic
Continuity issues need improving (Mentioned 3 times)

Here is the feedback we received from Pete (Teacher):

When the character is holding the polos, there could of been a close up
While he was watching the 1st episode, he felt as if he was in a theater. There needs to be more use of close ups and shot changes
Voice-over explaining each character works well, needs to be more narration
Cut to show different characters
More planning is needed prior to next shoot (rehearsals etc) to avoid bad acting
High angle show works well, but panning shot doesn't work within the same shot
Sound levels need improving / editing

Upon receiving the feedback from the class and Pete, these are the things that need to be changed in order to make the second episode better. The sound levels will need to be changed, and also filming with the microphone closer to the cast in future. Rehearsals also need to be done beforehand in order to make the cast feel more confident with their role. The storyboard also needs to be stuck to. If all this goes to plan, we should have a very good second episode.

The Inbetweeners

I looked at the Inbetweeners as another source of inspiration for the writing of the series as it is a sitcom based at a secondary school. I liked the way the first series opened with Jay being a newcomer to the school and meeting the other members whom he later befriends. I also like the frequent narration during the episode, which helps to push the story along. I also included a copy of the title sequence for you to look at. The music is also light-hearted. Adds to the light-heartedness of the series. The only thing I ignored about this series is that there is strong language throughout. I did not include any profanities.

Skins

I looked at Skins for a major part of inspiration whilst creating the characters for Lines. I wanted to use what they did and have a group of characters with a clash of personalities. This is part of the theme of Lines. As there is a clash of personalities, they argue a few times. I also like the concept of each episode focusing on a different character, which I tried to incorporate in Lines. The first episode focuses on all of the characters as they have only been introduced. The second episode then features on Seth and Zeke. The third episode more of Taylor's personality, along with a hint of Megan's character. At the end of the third episode, the only character not to be fully developed is Jake, the main character, who's character is to be developed throughout the whole thing. I have included a clip of the fourth series of skins. This helps to illustrate the points I have just made.



This whole clip illustrates how it is made for a teenage audience. Nightclub rave scenes, joy riding and complex relationships are all shown in this trailer.

Eastenders E20

I looked at a series of TV Dramas and a few online dramas as inspiration for the scripts I wrote for Lines. The first one I looked at was Eastenders E20. A new online show aimed directly for teenagers. Here is a copy of their cast photo and also their title sequence.




The opening titles for this are quite pacy. The original Eastenders theme has been remixed with a drum and base theme. The cast of the show are teens, which helps make the show appeal to teenagers. The show is also created by teens, which makes the series more realistic and grittier at the same time.

Project Overview

As part of our show unit, we had to create a three part Webseries with the possibility of making more episodes if we wanted to. As a class, we decided to base it on a group of kids in detention. I was given the role of casting director within the group. The group was eventually split into two. I worked with Matt, Tara, Kirk, Alie, Tim, Ash, Sam and Dave. I took on the role of scriptwriter and was still in charge of casting. We called our series ‘Lines’ whilst the other group stuck with the name ‘Detention Deficit’.

I set about creating a set of realistic characters. I figured that the series would work best if we had a newcomer to the detention group. That character soon became Jake, a teen actor and musician who is new to the school. The funny thing about the character is that I got the inspiration after watching Hannah Montana with my sister. The character was called Jake Ryan, hence the reason why I called him Jake. It was after a brief confrontation with a teacher that he was put in detention. There, he comes across Taylor, the school bully. I figured that you wouldn’t have detention if you didn’t have a troublemaker. But I wanted to put a twist with his character. Instead of bullying people for the sake of it, he does it because he is insecure with himself. Outside of school, he is a perfectly behaved individual. This comes to a head in episode three where Taylor argues with Megan because of it. The next character I created was Zeke, who is always in detention because he takes the blame for his friend’s troublesome antics. He is unable to stand up for himself. I actually thought of the character whilst watching Neighbours. Anyway, the nature of him being in detention is revealed in the second episode. The friends question why he always talks about his friend, but then it is shown his friend constantly takes advantage of him. We have Megan, who is a well educated girl who is rebelling against the system. She’s used to getting what she wants at home, and at school she gets in trouble for this. I don’t actually know how I thought of her character, just that I wanted to have someone do that. The final character is Seth, who believes that a secret agent is following him. This character was used in the other group, but I wanted this version to be less paranoid. There are other characters introduced throughout the series, but these are the main ones. I knew straight away that I did not want this series to be a sitcom, such as The Inbetweeners, but instead I wanted it to have a more a dramatic approach, such as Skins.

Now that the characters had been created, I worked on some audition forms which Tara and I put around the College. I also had to sort out the model release forms which the cast had to fill in, in order for us to be allowed to film them. The auditions quickly came around and we had a total of nine people turn up to audition. It was then down to me to make the final choices, and I emailed all the cast members when I got home that evening. I also requested that they give us a copy of their timetable so that a filming timetable could be arranged.

I felt that the filming of the first episode went okay, but a lot more close-ups could've been used. Dave then appointed himself the role of director and decided that he would rewrite the script for the second episode, without even consulting me. I turned up ready to film and then learnt about that, so communication could've been better there. I felt that this was done far too close to the deadline, but I couldn't be bothered to disagree even further, so I went about making sure the cast were available to film on Monday afternoon.

I noticed that a few of the character's personalities had changed in the rewrite, but I have faith that it will all work out in the end. The final version of episode one was uploaded to youtube at the end of Friday's lesson. By the end of the night, the video had a total of two hundred and forty-two views with eleven comments. A lot of people stated that they would continue watching the series, which is what we aimed to do with this project.

I feel that I have done pretty good work with this project. I liked the script that I wrote for the first episode, but I wasn't so keen on the second and third episodes. I felt they were lacking something and never really felt the urge to keep on working on it until I wrote the perfect script. I think was because I avoided using humour to keep the pace of the episodes going. That's why I thought I should have another go at writing the third episode. I think I functioned good enough with the casting as well. I felt I made a perfect selection with the cast, though it didn't help when I went away for the weekend. I think I worked a lot better when Kirk was director because he didn't moan whenever we hadn't got something done by a certain time. With Dave, he is a lot more aggressive towards us crew members, which is inapprorpiate. I felt more willing to work with Kirk because he was polite and encouraged us to work hard, not forcing it upon us.

More of A Progress Report

Okay, I tried to upload the first episode of Lines onto the BBC blast website and also E4, but the video size was too big. Blast had a limit of 50mb and e4 had a limit of 20mb. I now have to wait until we get back to college and process a youtube version so that we are able to give Lines the chance to be viewed by a wider audience range.

I also did the majority of a redraft to episode 3, which I must say now that I have actually thought through the script, I have made it much better... I hope. I have a also created a shot list, which will be coming on here at somepoint and have also began work on a storyboard.

During the week, I hope to make sure that the cast each have a printed copy of episode 2 for filming tomorrow afternoon. I will also use the storyboards from all 3 episodes of Lines to create an animatic. Not unless someone else does this before I do. I think that's it for now?

Redraft of Episode 3

I got bored yesterday and decided that I should have another go at writing the third episode of Lines. Tara and Matt helped me with ideas on what could happen, although we are still missing the most brilliantly amazing finale we could possibly hope to achieve at the moment. Anyhow, here's the script.

Fade In

INT. – SCHOOL CORRIDOR – AFTERNOON

JAKE is creeping along the corridor, towards TEACHER 1’S office. He has a walky-talky in his hands, which he switches on.

Cut to
INT. – DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

ZEKE is sitting with the other walky-talky. MEGAN and SETH are sitting either side of him.

ZEKE (deeply)
Jake, I am your father.

JAKE
So that’s the reason why I never met my father.

ZEKE (voiceover)
Well, you know. Was a bit busy. Had things to do. Girls to be with.

Cut away to TEACHER 1 sitting in his office, then back to the detention room. MEGAN tries to snatch the walky-talky away from ZEKE.

MEGAN
Let me say something.

ZEKE
Are you the one with the walky-talky?

MEGAN
No.

ZEKE
Shut up then.

Cut to
INT. - SCHOOL CORRIDOR – AFTERNOON

JAKE hears talking in the distance. He ducks next to a computer, just as TAYLOR and KATIE come into the corridor. Both in a heated discussion.

TAYLOR
I don’t know why you’re making such a big deal out of this.

KATIE
Maybe because you lied to me.

TAYLOR
There’s lies and then there’s lies. What would you rather me do?

KATIE
They’re both the same.

TAYLOR (sighing)
God. Get with it, woman.

JAKE comes out from behind the computer. KATIE screams. TEACHER 1 comes out from his office. He glares at JAKE.

TEACHER 1
You.

Cut to
INT. – DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

JAKE, ZEKE, SETH, TAYLOR, MEGAN and KATIE are sitting quietly inside the room.

MEGAN
Do you know what I like about being in detention? We all get to learn people’s true colours. Taylor, for example, is a goody two shoes.

TAYLOR
That’s rich coming from you. Little miss perfect to daddy and a complete sausage to everyone else.

MEGAN (furiously)
You take that back right now!

SETH
I think we all need to take a deep breath and calm down.

JAKE
I’m with you on that one.

MEGAN (exhaling)
It’s still not helping me.


Fifteen Minutes Later

They are all sitting silently around the room. SETH gets to his feet.

SETH
I’ve had enough of this. I’m outta here.

SETH goes to open the door and realises that it is locked.

KATIE
It’s locked.

SETH
Yes, I know that.

SETH sits back down.

Five Minutes Later

SETH gets to his feet. He walks over to the door and tries to open again, forgetting that he has previously tried to open it.

JAKE
Why are you trying the door again? It’s obviously locked.

SETH
It might’ve been unlocked that time.

TAYLOR
Well it’s not.

SETH
Yes. I can see that. I do have eyes. (pointing to his eyes)These things in my head. God, It’s like being on Big Brother.

ZEKE
Look, try and use your intelligence, man, even if you are a politician.

They all stare at him.

ZEKE (continued)
Sorry, am a bit of a Doctor Who obsessive.

Lines Episode 1

This is the first episode of Lines, which was edited by Matt. Hope you all enjoy...

Progress So Far

So far today, I have made an account with e4 where we can upload the first episode of lines later this evening. This will allow us to get more views and to appeal to a teenage audience. It will also give us the opportunity to get a wider audience instead of our friends and the friends of the cast members. 

I have also set up an account with bbc blast, which is a section

 of the BBC, especially set up for teenagers to upload their work and to have them viewed by others. The videos will be uploaded on the websites tonight.

Over the course of the weekend, I need to get in contact with the cast and make sure that they are all turning up for filming Monday afternoon. 

Requesting Filming Permission - 19th January 2010

Here is a request form asking for permission to use the equipment and to film on Tuesday 19th January 2010.

Requesting Filming Permission

This is a copy of a request form so that we can get permission to film the second episode of Lines at the end of the day on Monday 25th January. We also needed to seek permission to use the HD camera, a room for filming and a microphone so that we can record the sound. The permission was granted for us to film at this time. 

Launch Poster

This is the launch poster for Lines. It was created by Tara and Tim to be put around the college ready for the show's launch tonight. I like this as it shows the main cast members and also gives enough attention as to make people want to stop and look at the poster, and to also make them watch the first episode when it is launched tonight. 

Merchandise

As part of the merchandise for Lines, male and female t-shirts were created. A mug was also designed. All of which can be purchased online. 

I like the design for each of these. I think the colour of the t-shirts suits it well. 

Lines Title Sequence

Here is the title sequence for Lines. This was created by Matt



I like the way this has been made and the theme music gives an upbeat feel to the whole sequence. Awesome!

The Writing Process

Here is a screengrab of my writing progress for the third episode of Lines...

Possible Views For Lines

I was looking for a place to upload the first episode of lines, as well as the ones we had already chosen, such as youtube and vimeo. I looked at bbc blast, a place where teenagers can promote their poetry, music or short films. I thought this would be an excellent way to promote the episode as the majority of people who visit this website are teenagers. This is our target audience
for the series.

Progress Update - 21/01/10

Today, we had a group meeting. It was there where I learnt that the script for the second episode had been rewritten. I was given the opportunity to rewrite the third episode, but I did not want to. We were supposed to be filming at the end of the day, but as none of the cast were available, monday afternoon was going to be the filming date of the second episode.

Tomorrow, I can help spread word about the launch of the first episode and sleep and eat =]

Reflections From Filming - 19th January 2010

I was nervous before filming began because I didn't know what to expect. I was thinking that it could go horribly wrong or it could go brilliantly and we'd all walk away with great big smiles on our faces. What was the outcome? I don't know...

I met with the cast members outside the hall at the end of the day, just after Matt had given them a copy of the script to use whilst filming. With the rest of the group, we headed to our filming location, which was over in the D block. Each of the cast members were given their costumes to get changed into and Matt began to set up filming for the title sequence in another room.

I went through a cast read through with the cast. By the time that had finished, Matt had finished shooting the title sequence and then began setting up the camera in our room. From there on, it was like a disaster. The storyboard was not stuck to and most of the camera angles were zoomed in.

I often found there was a lack of communication between the crew members. The cast worked brilliantly together. They were amazing. I felt I was often dragged into the role of director as no one seemed to know what was going on. At times, it seemed as if the cast members were the only ones who had actually read the script. I was often asked to suggest camera angles and whenever I told Tim to film from a certain angle, he complained that we had no time and just carried on filming.

I felt the storyboard was perfectly fine to read and as some of the cast members take media as part of their a levels, they came to me and said that the camera angles in which everything was being filmed from were too static and that everything was filmed from the outside and not enough closeups were used. After filming took place, we said to go and film more closeups. What I saw was the cast members being filmed and also us being filmed round the corner, which had nothing to do with the story....

I think serious thoughts need to be done whilst filming episode 2 or this project will fall to pieces. I don't want that to happen as so much hard work has been put into it.

Where's the cast photos?

Reflections - 19th January 2010

I felt that the morning of today went pretty well. I spoke with JJ (Josef) who had free lessons from second period onwards. I went with Matt L and we recorded JJ's voiceover for Jake. We recorded the voiceover for all of the episodes three times over so that Matt could choose the best one when he came to edit tomorrow at Coleridge. This took a while due to the fact we had to wait on the request form to borrow the equipment for the voiceover. I am proud of the results of the voiceover because I think JJ did a good job.

I also had the understanding that Matt wanted to film the title sequence for the episodes in our free period, between 12:20 and 14:40. I got in contact with each of the cast members and arranged for them to meet the group in between this time to film. But as no request form had been made and signed, no permission was given to us to film in this time. This meant that I had to contact the cast members and tell them not to turn up at this time.

In the afternoon lesson, I printed out three copies of episode 1 and episode 2 ready for filming at the end of the day. This was done relatively quickly. I then had to wait until the end of the day for filming to commence...

Choosing The Right Cast - 13th January 2010

I went home and began the difficulty of choosing the cast members. As in my previous post, I used that method and emailed all of them. Here is a copy of one of the emails that I sent out.

The greatest difficulty I found with choosing the cast members were that everyone who auditioned were great and I wanted to give them all a role in this. But I knew that was impossible. We had three girls audition for the role of Megan. I knew that two of the three girls would end up with parts, but I also knew that one of them would be disappointed to hear that they didn't have any of the roles. This made me feel bad, I tried to refrain myself from getting too emotionally attached to the role.

I also felt the same with Seth's role. Three people also auditioned for this role. They were all good in their own rights, But I was able to offer alternative roles to the people who auditioned. Even though I emailed all the successful auditionees, a few were rejected because I felt they weren't right for the roles. This meant we are still looking for someone to take on the role of Friend 1.

After emailing everyone, I saved their email addresses into the hotmail account because I knew I was going away for the weekend. I thought this would be helpful for the rest of the group for when they needed to get in contact with the cast. I also asked each cast member for a copy of their free lessons so we could arrange a filming timetable around them all. I also sent them a copy of each of the scripts so that they could learn their lines ready for when we had to film.

The cast list is as follows:

1) Jake - Josef James

2) Taylor - Grant Cole

3) Zeke - Tom Jakes

4) Seth - Elliot Hickey

5) Megan - Catherine Montgomery

6) Agent 1 - James Amey

7) Katie - Angelica Thomson

What we need to do now with the project is to arrange a filming timetable, buy the props and costumes and to also storyboard the three episodes before we can begin filming. I am very optimistic that everything is working well....

Reflections From Auditions - 13th January 2009

For the auditions, I was in charge of making sure that all of the auditionees signed a copy of the model release forms so that we could film their audition and also have them acting in our episodes. I also gave each person a brief character description and also time for them to learn their lines. I thought this worked well and gave everyone a chance to act more in character than just reading the lines back to us.

There was a time in which no one auditioned, so we went back over the footage. There was no sound recorded. I remember asking Tim specifically to make sure that it was recording sound, but he said it didnt matter. I then attempted to get in touch with people to come and re-audition their parts. Unfortunately, only one person was able to make it as everyone else had left the college.

I felt that we worked well as a team, although a few of the comments made by Dave were unnecessary. I mean, you don't tell people who are auditioning for a role that the script is s**t and that they shouldn't waste their time auditioning. I felt this was quite a negative comment to be made. I was also going to take a copy of the quicktimed auditions home to help select cast members. As the file would not quicktime on Dave's laptop in time, I had to leave with just a set of audition notes.

Kirk, Tara and I then sat downstairs and discussed who would fit what roles in the episodes, although it was my choice to make an executive decision. The way I organised it was that each of the judges would write down the names of the people they thought would be suited to each role and I would go away and select the people with the highest number of votes. I then went home and began making my selection on each of the cast members.

Audition Procedure

We were going to give each audition candidate three attempts at performing their lines. The first one would be a basic rehearsal, just so they can get used to the role. The second one would be a official audition. The third time, the audition will be filmed. They will speak into the camera, say their name and the name of the character in which they are auditioning for. This will be the performance which will count to whoever gets the roles.

Audition Checklist

Here is an audition checklist of all the people we are expecting to turn up to audition this afternoon. Of course, posters have been put up around the college and more people may turn up to audition. But it may work the other way and not enough people may not audition for each of the roles.

Plan For Today

Today, I have to upload the model release forms and the character lines to the computer and print out several copies ready for the auditions later this afternoon.

I also need to plan a risk assessment with Tim ready for the auditions and have that printed out ready.

We have to set up the room and cameras ready for the audition.

Auditions where the characters are reading their lines.

I then need to upload the audition footage to the computer, quicktime it, and put it on a usb ready to take home.

I will watch through the auditions and upon this, will assess who will be fit to perform each of the roles and also to arrange a filming timetable ready for whenever.

Lines Part 3

Fade In

JAKE (narration)
So far, we learnt that Zeke’s friend had been taking advantage over him and we had an interesting discussion over illegal downloads. And just when things couldn’t get any worse, Taylor’s girlfriend made an appearance. God help me.

Cut to
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

TAYLOR and KATIE are standing by the wall, quietly talking to each other.

KATIE (whispering)
I can’t believe you lied to me. How is this relationship meant to work if you’re not telling me everything?

TAYLOR
Yeah, I know. Sorry.

MEGAN casually walks over to them.

MEGAN
I love it how we all get to learn these little things about each other. I mean, who’d have guessed you’d be a goody two shoes?

TAYLOR
Will you just shut up? You don’t know what you’re talking about!

MEGAN
I looks pretty clear from where I’m standing. This whole tough guy attitude being an act.

TAYLOR
You’re one to talk. Little miss perfect to Daddy, but a complete bitch to everyone else you come across.

Cut to
Ten Minutes Later
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

JAKE, TAYLOR, SETH, ZEKE, MEGAN and KATIE are sitting quietly around a table.

JAKE
Well at least we’re all getting on now.

They all nod in agreement.

Cut to
Ten Minutes Later
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM

JAKE, TAYLOR, SETH, ZEKE, MEGAN and KATIE are still sitting quietly around a table. ZEKE checks the time on his watch.

ZEKE
Detention’s over.

SETH
They couldn’t have forgotten about us, would they?

TAYLOR
Stuff this. I’m going.

TAYLOR gets to his feet. He puts his rucksack on his back and he walks towards the door. KATIE joins him. TAYLOR tries to open the door, but then realises it is locked. He places his rucksack on the floor and sits back with the rest of the group.

Cut to
Three Hours Later
INT - THE DETENTION ROOM – EVENING

JAKE is sitting, talking to TAYLOR, SETH, ZEKE, MEGAN and KATIE, who are listening to him.

JAKE
It happened a few months back. I couldn’t cope with all the filming schedules. I did something. It made me realise I wanted a normal life...

The classroom door can be heard unlocking.

TAYLOR
Finally, I get to go.

AGENT 1 steps inside the room. He closes the door behind himself.

SETH
That’s him! That’s the guy! I told you he was real!

AGENT 1
Time’s up.

They all exchange puzzled looks.

Cut to
Ten Minutes Later
INT – OUTSIDE THE DETENTION ROOM – EVENING

JAKE, TAYLOR, SETH, ZEKE, MEGAN and KATIE come walking out of the room. They walk down the corridor.

Fade Out

Lines Part 2

Fade In
JAKE (narration)
So far, I’d been threatened by Taylor, questioned about my fame and now there’s someone claiming to be harassed by a secret agent. Could this day get any worse?

Cut to
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

JAKE is sitting at a table, minding his business completely. TAYLOR is sitting on top of a table and ZEKE and MEGAN are sitting by the table that TAYLOR is sitting on. SETH is pacing up and down the room.

SETH
I really shouldn’t be in here.

TAYLOR (muttering)
You’re telling me.

ZEKE
What happened to you?

SETH
There’s this guy. He keeps following me around. A bit like a stalker really...

Cut to
INT – THE REFECTORY – MORNING

SETH is standing at a vending machine, looking at what drink to purchase. He spots AGENT 1 peering round the corner of the door, staring at him. He looks back at the vending machine. He looks back to the door. AGENT 1 is no longer there. He makes his drink selection.

Cut to
INT – THE LRC – MORNING

SETH is sitting at a table, writing some notes onto a writing pad. He looks up. AGENT 1 is standing in an aisle, reading a book. He looks down, then back up. AGENT 1 is nowhere to be seen. AGENT 1 suddenly crouches beside him.

AGENT 1
It’s time.
Cut to
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

SETH is standing at the front of the room. JAKE, TAYLOR, ZEKE and MEGAN are staring at him in confusion.

SETH (insistently)
I’m telling you the truth. Do you think this would be something I’d write on my personal statement? ‘Hi, I’m Seth. I spend my time at school getting harassed by a secret agent’.

JAKE
I somehow find it hard to believe.

TAYLOR
That’s rich coming from the actor we’ve never heard of.

MEGAN
I can’t wait until I get home. There’s some more songs I wanna download.

JAKE
No. Don’t you dare.

MEGAN
What?

JAKE
Downloading is killing the music industry. You shouldn’t do it.

TAYLOR (muttering)
Christ.

Cut to
INT – A COLLEGE CORRIDOR – MORNING

ZEKE is walking down the corridor. He has his hands inside his trouser pockets. He also has his rucksack on his back. FRIEND 1 comes up behind him. They walk down the corridor together.

FRIEND 1
Alright? I have a favour to ask. I was going to a party later. I need you to look after my booze for me.

ZEKE
I don’t wanna keep covering for you. All the time you’re getting me in the shit.

FRIEND 1
Cheers, man. You’re the best.

FRIEND 1 hurries off. ZEKE has an outburst of rage. He straightens himself out afterwards and casually walks away.
Cut to
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

JAKE, TAYLOR, SETH and MEGAN are sitting at various tables, listening to ZEKE, who stops talking. KATIE suddenly bursts inside the room. She marches towards TAYLOR.

KATIE (furiously)
I’ve had it up to here with you, Taylor! How long did you honestly think it would be before I found out?

Fade Out

Reflections

I was pleased with the idea that we had been split into two groups to create a rival webseries. I kept my original role as Casting Director and also became the writer. As a group, we created the new name of our series to be 'Lines'. I think this a good name and has quite a lot of mystery surrounding it. The name itself may cause people to tune in for the first episode. I created an audition form and went around the college putting the forms up. Before we had even finished putting them up, someone had written on one of the forms, asking if they could read a copy of the script...

So far, so good.

Model Release Form

Each of the cast members will be given one of these to fill out in order to appear in the webseries.

Audition Form

This is the form created to attract people to audition for Lines.

Lines Part 1

Extended version of episode 1 with more character development. And a new name change. Instead of using Valerie, I changed her name to Megan.

Fade In
JAKE (narration)
My name’s Jake Wood. I spent most of my life trying to be like a normal kid. But the fact I happened to be a TV star and also the lead singer of a band, meant otherwise. I began a new school and well, things didn’t go according to plan.

Cut to
INT – A SCHOOL CORRIDOR – MORNING

JAKE is standing with his back against the wall. TEACHER 1 is standing in front of him, shouting at him. His flies are undone. TEACHER 1 runs his hand through his hair.

TEACHER 1
You may think your screen reputation may be beneficial to you, but it’s not going to help you here.

JAKE
Three words. Flies. Open. Unpleasant.

TEACHER 1 casually zips up his trousers.

TEACHER 1
Let’s see how you cope in detention. They might teach you a thing or two.

JAKE sighs.

JAKE (narration)
That was how I met these guys.

Cut to
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

The camera focuses with a close-up of TAYLOR’S face as he speaks to JAKE, who is standing in front of him.

TAYLOR (threateningly)
At this school, we believe in a state of hierarchy. I am at the top. You, my friend, are at the bottom. The dirty stinking bottom. You got that?

JAKE brings out a tub of tic-tacs. He holds it out to TAYLOR.

JAKE
Tic-tac?

The camera moves across to MEGAN, who is sitting with her feet on a table. She is listening to music on her iPod, which is playing loudly through her headphones.

JAKE (narration)
That’s Megan. She doesn’t say a great deal, although she proved she was good at raising two fingers simultaneously. And finally, we come to Zeke Fernando, the nicest one of the bunch.

Cut to
A Previous Detention
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

ZEKE is sitting at a table, talking to TAYLOR and MEGAN. TAYLOR is sitting on top of a table, listening to him intently.

ZEKE
We were at a house party the other night and my mate. He, erm, he had tons to drink. Like a serious amount...

JAKE (narration)
Meeting someone like him made me question why he ended up in detention in the first place.

Cut to
The Present Detention
INT – THE DETENTION ROOM – AFTERNOON

TAYLOR is now sitting on top of a table. MEGAN takes her headphones out of her ears. She turns and faces JAKE.

MEGAN
So you’re an actor? What’s it like being famous?

TAYLOR
He can’t be that famous if I’ve never heard of him. Even if he was, which I’m sure he ain’t, he wouldn’t be here in detention, would he?

MEGAN
No. But listen to this, right.

JAKE (sighing)
Oh, God. Look, guys. I’m here because I did something. That’s all there is to know.

There is a pause.

ZEKE
I wonder how the others are getting on in detention.

MEGAN
Don’t get me started with them.

The door suddenly opens. SETH walks inside the room, followed closely by TEACHER 1. They are both arguing.

TEACHER 1 (furiously)
I’ve had it up to here with your lies! For the last time, no one has been following you! Not even this apparent spy!

SETH
If you’d just let me explain.

TEACHER 1
No. I don’t want to hear it.

TEACHER 1 turns and walks out of the room. He slams the door shut. SETH turns to face the others, who are looking puzzled.

SETH
Oh, hi.

Fade Out

Episode Ideas

Episode 1 Synopsis

I came up with the idea of introduction as Jake as he turns up for detention. There he meets the other characters who refuse to believe that he is who he says he is. Before he gets the chance to explain himself, a teacher drags Seth in to detention and leaves people thinking could he really be harrassed by a secret agent?

Episode 2 Synopsis

Seth makes his case as to him being harrassed by the secret agent, although no one seems to believe him. A flashback is shown as to how Zeke's friend takes advantage of him. The episode concludes with the entrance of Taylor's girlfriend.

Episode 3 Synopsis

We learn that Taylor had been lying to his girlfriend about his troublesome activities. Valerie also shares her concerns with her dad's expectations of her. But another shock lies in store for each of the other characters.

This is only a brief outline. All of the ideas could be developed further.

Possibly A Split Project?

I was thinking through possible ideas as to how the webseries could be developed even further. I had the idea of what echobeach and moving wallpaper did. My thinking behind this was that the two ideas could focus on detention, but different characters and situations. The show itself would still feature the same name.

The basic concept of this show is a group of teens in after school detention. These teens are in their because of their personal problems. We have:

1) Jake - An actor and also the lead singer of a band who on his first day, ends up in detention. This is where he comes across the regulars in detention. But is he really who he says he is?

2) Taylor - He is a rebellious teen and is a regular in detention. But underneath all the toughness, is there someone else wanting to be heard?

3) Seth - He is dragged into detention for believing that he is being harrassed by a secret agent. Is he telling the truth or just making it up to become the centre of attention?

4) Zeke - He has a friendly person and ends up detention because he covers for his friend's troublesome antics. Will he ever be able to stand his ground with him?

5) Valerie - She is a rebel, but is really insecure with herself as she comes from a well educated background. Will she be able to fit in with the crowd?

I kept her character close to the character in the other story. I was thinking that the main difference is that these characters know that they are acting in a web TV series, which was recently comissioned, even though this would not be revealed until the final episode. Whereas in the other one, the characers are unaware of their situation.

The Detention Deficit Part 2

Here's the second script I came up for the idea of the webiseries.

Fade In

JAKE (narration)
Detention wasn’t going great so far. I’d been threatened by Taylor, questioned about my fame and now there’s someone claiming to be harassed by a secret agent. Could this day get any worse?

Cut to
INT - THE DETENTION ROOM - AFTERNOON

JAKE is sitting at a table, minding his business completely. TAYLOR is sitting on top of the table and ZEKE and VALERIE are sitting by the table that TAYLOR is sitting on. SETH is pacing up and down the room.

SETH
I really shouldn’t be in here.

TAYLOR (muttering)
You’re telling me.

ZEKE
What happened to you?

SETH
There’s this guy. He keeps following me around. I can never seem to get away from him.

Cut to
INT - THE REFECTORY - MORNING

SETH is standing at a vending machine, looking at what drink to purchase. He spots AGENT 1 peering round the corner of the door, staring at him. He looks back at the vending machine. He looks back to the door. AGENT 1 is no longer there. He makes his drink selection.

Cut to
INT - THE LRC - MORNING

SETH is sitting at a table, writing some notes onto a writing pad. He looks up. AGENT 1 is standing in an aisle, staring at him. He looks down, then back up. AGENT 1 is nowhere to be seen. AGENT 1 crouches beside him.

AGENT 1 (whispering)
It’s time.

Cut to
INT - THE DETENTION ROOM - AFTERNOON

SETH is standing at the front of the room. JAKE, TAYLOR, ZEKE and VALERIE are staring at him in confusion.

ZEKE
Right…

SETH (insistently)
I’m telling you the truth here! Why would I make up something like this?

JAKE
I somehow find it hard to believe.

TAYLOR
That’s rich coming from the actor we’ve never heard of.

VALERIE
Why should we believe you?

JAKE faces ZEKE.

JAKE
What’re you in here for?

ZEKE
I, erm… it’s complicated.

Cut to
INT - A COLLEGE CORRIDOR - MORNING

ZEKE is walking down the corridor. He has his rucksack on his back and is listening to music on his iPod. FRIEND 1 comes up behind him, patting him on the back. ZEKE takes the headphones out of his ears.

FRIEND 1
Alright? I have a favour to ask. I was going to a sick party later. I need you to look after my drink til the end of the day.

ZEKE
I don’t wanna keep covering for you. All the time you’re getting me in the shit.

FRIEND 1
Cheers, man. You’re the best.

FRIEND 1 hurries off.

ZEKE
No, wait.

ZEKE sighs.

Cut to
INT - THE DETENTION ROOM - AFTERNOON

JAKE, TAYLOR, SETH and VALERIE are sitting at various tables, listening to ZEKE, who stops talking. KATIE suddenly bursts inside the room. She marches towards TAYLOR.

KATIE (furiously)
I’ve had it up to here with you, Taylor! How long did you honestly think it would be before I’d find out?

Fade Out

Casting Director Checklist

As casting Director, I was important to make a list as to what I need to do in preparation for the shoot of the webisode. The list is as follows:

1) I need to arrange the main actors and also get backup actors incase the main actors do not turn up for filming.

2) Model Release Forms - they need to be signed that we can get their permission to appear in the webisode.

3) Making sure that the cast know when they are supposed to be on the set, they have a copy of the script and that they know all of their lines.

4) Auditions - these need to be done to ensure that each actor fits the role of the character I will be casting them as.

I will make sure that these will all be done before filming commences

Different Media And Art Forms

There are a number of ways in which creative and media practitioners might use to show their work. This can include: theatre, street performance, standup comedy, live gigs, art exhibitions and at the cinema.

Theatre

Theatre is a good way that a creative and media can show their work. By putting on a play or a

West End show, it gives the audience the opportunity to view the play as part of an audience. With theatre, the play is scripted in advance, the cast has fully rehearsed ready for the performances. It is important for the cast to fully remember their lines as they are performing live and forgetting their lines could be catastrophic to the success of the play. Being a part of the

audience can be an exciting experience as it means audience members can view plays or shows that are only performing for a limited time and after the run of the show ends, there may never be another performance. An example of a play that has been successful for a number of years is: The History Boys, which was written by Alan Bennet which premiered in May 2004. An example of a West End show that has also been successful is Billy Elliot: The Musical. This began in March 2005 and is based on the film adaption of Billy Elliot. Billy Elliot: The Musical was written by the writer of the film. Having experienced watching this show, I was captivated by the experience of seeing the show as the acting was far more realistic and captivating. With theatre, the lines are already written and the audience do not reflect or change what is being said on stage. The target audience for theatres and west end shows are people who enjoy going to live performances, maybe middle to upper class people.

Street Performance

Street performance is a strong way of showcasing strong talents, such as jazz performances,

acoustic tracks or just living statues. This is a complete different way of creative and media practitioners showc

asing their work. Music performers also use street performance to showcase their music abilities and at the end of thei

r performances, make their self recorded albums available for sale. The audience can also affect the way a street perfo

rmance is performance. If there is no crowd watching the street performer, it is hardly likely that the street performer is going to continue performing. But if a large crowd is surrounding the street performer, they are likely to continue performing their work for a while. The target audience for street performances are more likely to be passer-bys who are shopping. The age ranges could be from 10-80 years old. Another problem is that they could soon become boring to look at it.

Cinema

James Cameron's most recent film 'Avatar' took him twelve years to make. This was due to the

fact that when he first got the idea of making the film, the technology wasn't available to him to make that possible. He needed significant advances in technology to do this. Now that the significant advances in technology have been made, this means that the film has finally been able to happen. With the revelations that this is the

most expensive film of all time and also themost visually arresting, this means that the twelve years to make this film, may twelve years worth the wait. James Cameron has been known for extending the barrier for special effects. For the year in which Terminator 2 was made in, the special effects in the film were astounding and the same is to be said with Titanic, which also raised the bar for films, with it being one of the most successful films of all time.

Live Gigs

Live shows of different bands and pop groups have also developed over recent years.

With the Take That Tour: The Circus Live, fans were given the opportunity to see the group perform live or watching them perform on television. There are many positive and negatives for this. A positive for being able to see this on television is that you get to watch it in the comfort of your own home and you al

so get to see the show from all angles. If

you saw it live, you would only

be able to see the show from o

ne angle and this could limit someone's interest in it. But when seeing something performed live, it also gives a good fe

eling that people get when they are part of being a crowd. The recent increase in technology means that programmes are also able to be recorded, like Sky+. Programmes can be recorded and watched at a later date without people worrying about having to watch it straight away. The programme can also be kept and watched again at later dates.

Standup Comedy

This could also be said for stand-up comedy. This has also developed over recent years due to the rapid increase in technology. Instead of paying to see a

comedy perform a show live, we are able to watch them in our own homes from the DVD that is released of the tour. The hi

ghlight of seeing the comedian peform live is that you have the potential

to meet them after the show and also the experience of actually seeing something live. But there is the potential of bad seating arrangements and only being able to hear the show and not seeing what is going on. But by watching the DVD, you are able to see them the whole time due to the multiple cameras filming them, and the DVD may also come with special features, which people seeing them live will not be able to experience, unless they also brought the DVD, which means they would be able to experience the show more than just the once that they saw them.

Art Exhibition

Art Exhibitions are also a way of artists to showcase their work. These can include paintings to

models. The benefit of going to an art exhibition is that you get to see an artist's work. The target audience for an art exhibition are auctioneers, who may be interested in purchasing some of the models or paintings. Upper class people may also be interested in viewing these art galleries.

Television

With television, the number of television shows that can be broadcast are unlimited. Sitcoms,

drama, documentary, news channels and chat shows are just some of the shows that are broadcast on television. The four main channels on terrestrial television are: BBC1, BBC2, ITV and

Channel 4. The benefits of watching

something on television is that you are watching it in the comfort of your own home. Also, if you miss the showing on the television, you can record it if you have Sky+ and go back to watch it at a later date. There is no set target audience for television. People of all ages can find something to watch on television, whether it is the latest episode of Dr Who or Outnumbered to an episode of Neighbours.

Webseries

I looked at a few webseries and have been able to pick out a few common features as to what they all include. They all feature a comedy element to them, this makes them more appealing to general audiences. The cast usually consists of a group of friends or work colleagues. Nerdy humour is also used, which involves references to gaming. They all feature local areas, there are no extravagant filming locations.

They all feature simple narratives, which are simple enough to watch and does not cause confusion as there is not enough time to fully develop each idea if it were a complicated one. With microseries's, we learn about the characters through the situations as to which they get theirselves into, not any character development beforehand.

The first episode introuduces all of the main characters that will be developed as the series progresses, and will also need a potential cliffhanager to make people want to watch the next episode in the series.



This is the third episode of living with the infadels. This features the frequent use of comedy, though its not slapstick. It is more through the dialogue. The same characters appear in this episode as the previous ones and the story is easy to follow and makes you want to watch the next episode as it gives you suggestions as to what will happen in the next episode.



This is an episode from the Angry Kid series. This again sticks to regular conventions. It is a comedy series and this one is different to previous microseries's because each episode tells a different story. There is usually only one character on screen for the majority of each episode.

The Detention Deficit Part 1

I created an alternate screenplay to the one that was being written. I thought it would be good if there were different ideas / characters and not just being limited to the one idea. Here's the script for the first part.

Fade In

JAKE (narration)
My name’s Jake Wood. I spent most of my life trying to be like a normal kid. But the fact I happened to be a TV star and also the lead singer of a band, meant otherwise. I decided to move away and enrolled at sixth form. That was when I met these guys.

Cut to
INT - THE DETENTION ROOM - AFTERNOON

The camera focuses with a close-up of TAYLOR’S face as he speaks to JAKE, who is sitting on the other side of the room to him. TAYLOR is sitting on top of the table.

TAYLOR (threateningly)
You see. At this college, we believe in a state of hierarchy. I am at the top. You, my friend, are at the bottom. The dirty stinking bottom. You got that?

JAKE (narration)
That’s Taylor, the head honcho as he calls himself. He delights in bullying and playing pranks on people. And then we have Valerie.

The camera moves across to VALERIE, who is sitting at a table. She has her legs on top of the table. She is listening to music on her iPod, which is playing loudly through her headphones.

JAKE (narration)
Every part of me was telling me to avoid talking to her, but I also felt drawn to her. And finally, we have Zeke Fernando, the nicest one of the bunch.

Cut to
A Previous Detention
INT - THE DETENTION ROOM - AFTERNOON

ZEKE is sitting at a table, talking to TAYLOR and VALERIE. TAYLOR is sitting on top of the table, listening to him intently.

ZEKE
We were at a house party the other night and my mate. He, erm, he had tons to drink. Like a serious amount…

JAKE (narration)
Meeting someone like him made me question why he ended up in detention in the first place.

Cut to
The Present Detention
INT - THE DETENTION ROOM - AFTERNOON

VALERIE takes the headphones out of her ears. She turns and faces JAKE.

VALERIE
So you’re an actor? What’s it like being famous?

TAYLOR
He can’t be that famous if I’ve never heard of him. Even if he was, which I’m sure he ain’t, he wouldn’t be here in detention, would he?

VALERIE
Yeah. Why are you here?

JAKE doesn’t answer them.

VALERIE (impatiently)
Well?

The door suddenly opens. SETH walks inside the room. He is arguing with TEACHER 1.

TEACHER 1 (furiously)
I’ve had it up to here with your lies! For the last time, no one has been following you. Not even this apparent spy!

SETH
If you’d just let me explain.

TEACHER 1
No.

TEACHER 1 slams the door shut. SETH turns to face the others.

SETH
Oh, hi.

Fade Out

Alternative Sitcoms

I researched into sitcoms that feature very basic locations, simple storylines and a small cast that barely changes between each episode, although guest actors appear in some of the episodes.
The first TV show that I looked at was Outnumbered. This is comedy at a very basic level. It is about a family who attempt to navigate the trials of everyday life. The setting for each of the episodes are the family's house, moving to different locations for other episodes, such as an airport and a church. Most of the comedy is also provided through the dialogue exchanges from them all.

I also researched into The Inbetweeners. This has more varied locations than what most other sitcoms have. A frequent setting is the sixth form/ secondary school in which the students attend. The cast is also small with the central characters being four friends. The storylines are also simple as it has them to trying to fit in at College and how everything seems to backfire on them.

The third and final sitcom into which I researched was The Green Green Grass, a spinoff from Only Fools and Horses, focusing on Boycie and Marlene as they move to the countryside and attempt to settle into the local neighbourhood. This is once again a comedy, and uses very limited locations. The main setting is the house and other parts of the farm, although it does occassionally drift to the local pub. The storylines are kept basic, following one storyline. Past episodes are sometimes referenced, which doesn't make it necessary to follow the story to understand what is happening in each episode.

First Meeting

As a group, we elected Tim and Alex as the chairmen of the meetings. We came up with several ideas as to what the webseries could be about. The three best ideas that came up were that of a detention, a zombie invasion and the characters having to defend theirselves and also that of a kid being harrassed by a secret agent.

I found a lot of faults and a lot strengths in these ideas. In the time in which we have to do this project, there would be no way that we would be able to produce a webseries of a zombie invasion and make it look convincing enough to make people watch all three episodes.

I liked the idea of the secret agent harrassing the kid and thought it might possibly be the most entertaining thing to watch, but the question remained on the content on each of the episode and how the idea could possibly work.

I also liked the idea of the detention room, but not in the same way that everyone else in the class did. When I heard that idea, I got the idea of Skins. And the fact that everyone wanted to feature geeky comedy in a detention setting was slightly bizarre. I thought that this idea would not work, due to the fact that not all intelligent/ geeky people go out causing trouble. They spend their time at school studying.



I also objected to the idea of there being so many characters featuring in the webisodes. For three 1 minute episodes, to introduce and develope all these characters doesn't seem very realistic. I felt that they should've used three characters instead. That way, the casting would be made easier as well.

I came up with the possibility of three different characters. The first one was a rebellious teen who would be confident and not be afraid of the consequences of his actions. I was thinking that the second character could be someone who always gets into trouble for covering for their friend who was a troublemaker. The third character was a girl. I was thinking that she got in to trouble not because she was looking for it, but because she was struggling with everyday life. Peer pressure would play an important part in each of these character's reactions. I felt that this would be a far more realistic approach to take and not be over the top like some of the characters that were created during the lesson.

I wanted to take on the role as writer for the webisodes, but due to the fact that I did not agree on the nature of the storylines and the characters, I didn't want to be the one responsible for bringing these characters to life. In the end, I took on the role as Casting Director. I like that I will be the one responsible for choosing who will appear as the characters in the webisodes.

Seeking Permission

I contacted an acting agency for the possibility of using one of their actors for a role in the webisode. This is what the email says:









As of yet, there has been no reply....

Introduction To Show

This is my blog for the show unit. This is a link to the cmdiploma main page...


http://cmdiplomashow.blogspot.com/