Monday, May 11, 2009

Film Workshop + Book-learned = ART

Saturdays and Sundays are my rest day from practicum stuffs. But sometimes instead of laying down my back flat on my bed, I go out for fun and new discoveries. Yesterday was a perfect example. My production professor which I consider as one of my favorite prof in all times invited me to attend a film workshop seminar three days ahead. My heart was agitated when I read the text message because I haven't attended any film seminar yet. And I know attending in that workshop would be part of my Personal Legend's history.

The film workshop seminar was participated by 500 students from different universities in the Philippines. While waiting for the speaker to start with my Mass Communication classmates, I can't help but to be thankful that I am one of the partcipants there, I thought as my eyes rolled in each corner of the cinema. I wasn't aware what's gonna happen when I arrived there, I don't even know if other Mass Communication students will be there. I came without hesitation because that's what my heart was telling me. I even canceled my planned Majayjay trip with my chums because of this workshop. And as the speaker introduced the different directors in the industry together with one of the successful 3D Digital Film producer in HongKong, I told myself that I made a right decision.

I was amazed with the 3D Films in HongKong they've presented. If you were there I assure you will appreciate the power of digital technology as it dominated the art scene in some parts of the world, particularly in the 1st world countries. Unfortunately, our feet step flat in the 3rd world country so it will take a number of years before we can follow such digital achievements. On the other hand, a representative from RSVP Video and Film Productions (I forgot his name but not his face) presented to us the power of the RED 4K UHD Camera. He discussed the different types of camera and he made a comparison of the Basic Resolution (NTSC/SD) cameras to 720P HD to 1080HD (popularly known as P2) to 3K and of course to 4K UHD camera. He even showed us demo and clips shot by Red 4K UHD camera. Some are international clips from box office motion pictures and some are directed by Mark Meily and Raymond Red, which happens to be one my favorite motion picture and TVC director. My world was totally shock when the speaker called the attention of Direk Raymond Red. Jeezz he was there! And as I watched his piece, it was beyond fantastic. The direction of photography was creative and quite impressive. The images are well established and turned out magical because of the power of the Red 4K UHD camera. How could it not be? The Red 4K UHD cam has 4096x2304 resolution compared to NTSC/SD cam that only have 640x480 resolution. See the diference? That was the reason why the eyes of the participants and aspiring film makers melted as they've seen the evolution of artistry in the Philippines which not yet recognized by millions of Filipino. Other famous directors in the industry was also there like Joel Lamangan and Tony Reyes.

I was really lucky that I was one of the student seated in the cinema. I discovered new know ledges from technical aspects in film making which will help me in the quest of pursuing my dream. And as I walked alone trying to find my way to get to the MRT station I realized that I already know what I wanted in life. Paulo Coehlo calls it Personal Legend in the international bestselling phenomenon The Alchemist which I just finished reading a few hours ago. It inspires me and encourage me a lot in pursuing my dream which is film making. That is what I really wanted and for me it is my Personal Legend. I am ready to give up something just to meet my goal and my Personal Legend. It maybe not now because I need to learn more and quest for that personal legend. It takes a lot of time and experience for me to achieve it. In the mean time, the essential is that through reading the book it lighten up my heart and made me cognitively aware on every thing from the art of learning to the art of patience.

"When you want something, all the universe conspires in helping you to achieve it."

--- Paulo Coehlo, The Alchemist