Hello all,
To see examples of my direction (writing and editing), please visit
www.hauntedmovie.com and view clips from several movies and trailers there. Or visit
www.youtube.com after a stonepatterson 'search'. I am not famous or rich or anything other then an individual who loves taking an idea from script to scream. Striving to have the best final production possible. So take the following with a grain of salt.
First -- I modify my script, directing and editing to fit the cast as close as possible (as the writer, director and editor I don't have to worry about the writer, director or editor's ego). Not working with proven or professional talent can be a plus if the actors feel comfortable within their character's skin and trust that you will not make them look weak in front of the camera. I rely on the strengths and weakness of the actor's individuality to make the scripted character feel (sound and look) 'real'. Adjusting dialogue as needed.
Next -- I use three cameras (DVcam allows me to use a lot of tape and not waste a lot of money) as often as possible -- in different angles maintaining the 'stage-line' . We videotape one or two 'laid-back' rehearsal sequences -- to let everyone know where they should or shouldn't be in regards to camera(s), location and other cast members. This bonus footage sometimes can be a great 'extra' for later use as actual footage or ambience and sound effects.
Third -- I let my actors act. I let them push the envelope while the material is fresh. We play with what is comfortable for each cast member in body language and dialogue. I bring them closer to character's dialogue and movements by reviewing what we have shot (and getting their feedback -- how can it be better and what doesn't work).
Fourth -- Keeping them in character really works because I shoot several shots at one time (up to a page/full minute of script). Three camera(s) also keeps continuity on target. We may do several sequences five or six times (moving cameras for a wide range of editing choices).
Fifth -- We move in to do close-ups and cut-a-ways last, (the cast is ready for such and confident with material of the sequence by this time). Eventually we get all the needed dialogue. One page/full minute of sequence shooting is a long time. But by having so much material to work with, as editor I have a lot of creative choices.
Sixth -- I shoot on the weekends -- all day Saturday and Sunday. I edit Monday through Thursday and author to DVD-R the edited footage (with or without music/FX). Cast gets to review that footage like a 'weekly' daily. By shooting in sequence as often as possible -- cast gets a solid feel of their character and movie pace. If we need to re-shoot, to add or alter anything we make the plans to do so (during the week or after a weekend shoot).
And Seventh (but not last) -- Having all that extra ambience, sound FX, footage, close-ups and cut-a-ways, as editor it is really easy to manipulate the best combinations of footage available.
Some may think this is cheating. There is no such thing as 'cheating' in the story-telling for me. You either get a believable story or you don't. My goal is to make my cast look good and tell the best story that I can.
Please visit and view the actors and stories. The actors are very good and a lot of fun to work with -- I cannot give them enough praise... would also like to hear any comments.