Progress Update 06

Jacob Barnes

1. Key Activities

  • Casting & Crew – Casting call yielded no formal responses, so the creator is leveraging personal networks and favours, securing Becca, potentially Derrie, and possibly others.
  • Location Secured – Confirmed the University of Cumbria’s dance studio for filming on Monday and Tuesday next week.
  • Projection Setup – Ordered four large “protector board” sheets for projection surfaces; still sorting out projectors (may reuse BenQ projectors from previous projects).
  • Technical Preparations – Camera now at college for test shots; SSD ordered for recording media.
  • Primary Research – Distributed a survey on public perceptions of cults to inform visual elements; planning to incorporate stereotypical cult symbols into the video.

2. Feedback & Progress

  • Progress remains slow and behind schedule despite publishing an April recovery plan on the blog.
  • Pre-production (including AV script and storyboard) still incomplete and now urgent.
  • Projection material and lighting equipment (awaiting reply from Wildfire Lighting) are partially addressed but require follow-up.

3. Challenges & Solutions

  • Falling Behind on Pre-Production & Research – Largely due to poor time management, sleep disruptions, and demotivation, especially around research.
    • Solution: Committing to crunch work on Thursday and Friday, aiming to distribute call sheets over the weekend; plans to visit the filming location tomorrow to inform shot planning.
  • Uncertain Technical Setup (Projection Issues) – Previously experienced visual distortions during projections.
    • Solution: Investigate cause and test solutions; focus on using abstract cult imagery rather than actor-specific content due to time limits.
  • Limited Filming Time – Only two days available; no time to disassemble/reassemble sets.
    • Solution: Careful weekend planning to minimise improvisation and maximise efficiency on shoot days.

4. Upcoming Plans

  • Conduct a location scout at the University of Cumbria’s dance studio tomorrow.
  • Finalise AV script and storyboard over the weekend based on location visit.
  • Follow up with Wildfire Lighting regarding equipment borrowing.
  • Resolve projector setup and avoid previous technical issues.
  • Focus on pre-production tasks (call sheets, shot lists) and secondary research updates.
  • Prepare for two full filming days next Monday and Tuesday.

5. Additional Comments

  • Recognising motivation struggles, especially with the research phase.
  • Emphasising the need for streamlined shoot days to avoid chaotic improvisation.
  • Acknowledging persistent delays despite the recovery plan; determined to push through final stages.
  • Aiming for more regular progress updates moving forward.