Critique

Communication Video

The idea in this project was to present a self-profile with a communication theme. The video started by having someone wake up to check on a communication device which in my opinion sticks to the theme. It also used a similar action when going to sleep at the end of the day which makes for uniformity. In the midst of all sorts of equipment, basic information concerning the program of the day was not communicated, which is a twist that grabs my attention. It was very smart of the team to present themselves individually in their everyday lives, full of communication alternatives and yet lack effective communication. Another neat thing about the video was how they tend to cross each other’s paths in the connecting videos. That seemed to give the entire project a seamless feel between individual parts and consequently, a teamwork quality. Nevertheless, there is a matter in question from my perspective. There seemed to be so much of unnecessary shots in the overall video. If one is allowed only 90 seconds to illustrate communication and there is a means to edit the important details off, then each person cold still make more effective use of their portion of the video. There was quite a substantial aspect of all the video, that was distinctively unrelated to communication. Driving around or walking around the city are examples of such. Overall, the concept used to convey communication or the lack thereof was very creative.

Abstract Video

This video applied a very intelligent concept. The colors in the traffic light are not really abstract to us in our everyday lives, and the purpose for their use – which results from their cognitive effectiveness – is neither a strange phenomenon. However, the application of the concept gave room for the use of a huge achieve of ideas, which could culminate to each of the colors. I specifically liked the filmstrip used in Alexis portion and the dancer’s foot used in Lynda’s. One issue I would like to contribute to however is the excessive use of filters as against actual colors. I would suggest getting footage of actual items or scenarios in everyday life which coincide with the color to present and thereby reduce the attempt to use filters to transform other colors.

Separation Video

As simple as this video was, it sort of provokes deep thinking for the audience. There were metaphoric aspects of the presentation, which seemed to have deeper meanings especially indicated by the length of such scene before any transition. The music chosen also enhanced that feel. There was a disparity in Andrea’s separated lifestyles, which was effectively communicated by a change in the song when she got on the road. As regards a separation from her hometown, I like the way the IRELAND flag was edited to come up when the song got to the point saying “in my hometown.” The concept of “soldiers from the war” used on Kevin’s portion was splendid. The one thing I may criticize on this piece is the extensive use of still photographs and clips. I believe there were still lots to shot on camera and included to make the work more ingenious. Altogether though, the transition – walking to the table – that also served as ends to the individual parts created a very unique feel. Coupled with this, the transition video was resolved to black and white which made it look old yet cherished.