The Journey of "Good Works": From Concept to Screen
In the realm of indie filmmaking, the journey from concept to final cut is often as compelling as the film itself. This was certainly the case with our short film "Good Works," a project that not only challenged us but also cemented our love for horror and filmmaking. Here's a glimpse into that journey.
"Good Works" was born out of our participation in the Fright Film Competition in Cincinnati, Ohio, back in 2019. Fresh off a 48-hour project, I connected with Adam Dell, who introduced me to the competition. The challenge was intriguing: create a 13-minute short film in just two and a half months, incorporating a rope as a prop, an over-the-shoulder shot, and a line from a classic horror movie. We were immediately hooked. Our scripting process was a collaborative effort. I reached out to Jason for some ideas, and he quickly sent over the script for "Good Works." The narrative was gripping, and we knew we had our story.
Casting was surprisingly smooth. Angelia, a dear friend, eagerly agreed to play the role of the demon, even going the extra mile to submit an audition tape. Stella Ryan-Lozon, discovered through Facebook, brought life to our lead character, Sam. The ghosts and the rest of the cast were a mix of friends and enthusiastic individuals who found the project online. The crew was assembled primarily via Facebook. Adam Kurtz joined as the Director of Photography, Christopher Thomas as the 1st AD and sound guy, and Elizabeth DeFelice brought her talents as a Special Effects artist. We scheduled shoots every weekend in September, barely finishing our 13-page script in time. This tight schedule left me with just a week for editing, but we managed to submit "Good Works" by the deadline.
"Good Works" was my second directorial venture, and I embraced the opportunity to experiment with lighting and shot design. The eerie red light in the hallway scene was achieved with construction-site can lights and red-tinted bulbs, balanced with cool blue and white light. This scene, enhanced with a touch of fog, became a favorite among our team and viewers. The film was a success, winning Best Special Effects, Best Script, and Best Editing at the Fright Film Competition. It was also selected for the 2020 Nightmares Film Festival, a proud moment for us. With minimal marketing, "Good Works" has amassed nearly 20,000 views on YouTube, a testament to its appeal. "Good Works" taught me invaluable lessons about directing. The importance of clear communication with actors and the wisdom of delegating tasks were standout learnings. It reaffirmed the basic yet crucial aspects of filmmaking that sometimes need relearning.
A Personal Milestone
Despite its flaws, "Good Works" holds a special place in my heart. It's a showcase piece whenever I discuss my work or mentor aspiring filmmakers. This project rekindled my passion for films, particularly horror, and strengthened my resolve to continue growing Bloodscribe Creations and my creative endeavors.
"Good Works" isn't just a film; it's a milestone in our journey, a story of passion, teamwork, and the relentless pursuit of cinematic storytelling. It encapsulates the essence of indie filmmaking – the struggle, the creativity, and the sheer joy of bringing a vision to life.
