Initial Discussion: Potential Female Character Role

Mania EP Launch

On the 10th December we attended the Your Illuminations EP Launch. Despite a schedule to film footage of the live performance on a high quality camera, we came across some complications. The venue would not allow us to film using our cameras due to complications with a breech of confidentiality and our rights as the audience within the venue. Due to a lack of understanding of the requirements necessary for us as audience participants, we were left to film on our phones.

Despite these complications, we were able to film a number of elements of the required footage that could potentially be utilised within the final piece and tampered with during post-production. Editing will allow for further development of quality and effect in order to become aesthetically fitting with the image of the band and our outlook of the final product.

As well as live footage, we planned to take any initial shots for our ancillary tasks. I took a number of pictures of the stage set up, the band members themselves and the crowd in order to consolidate the atmospheric element I wish to use specifically within the digipak element of  the task.

EP Launch: Advertisement and Release

Female Character: Challenging Stereotypes

Our female character is empowered, strong-willed and independent despite the stereotype regarding female reaction after a breakup. It isn't her that is weak, it is in fact the male character. We aimed to empower and go against stereotypes in order to aspire to fulfill the requirements of our target audience. It is common that throughout pop culture, it is the female portrayal that comes across as weak and vulnerable against the male character.

The understanding of the male gaze adheres to the female portrayal within a modern society. Young audience members within our target audience are victims of societies expectation of women, which is what we wish to conquer.

"Men look at women. Women watch themselves being looked at" - John Berger. 

Our character isn't the stereotypical innocent and virginal character seen throughout media texts. Propps understanding of narrative discusses the stereotypical 'damsel in distress' type character. However, the indie genre aims to challenge stereotypes through a unique and experimental way.

Talent Release Forms: Artist and Female Actor

Planning for Filming: 10/12/16

Research into Costume: Make-up

In order to initiate an understanding of the typical depiction of a female character within an indie/alternative music video, we decided to do some research into costume, starting specifically with make-up and the importance of simplicity and a natural look for the female character. 

Through research into existing products such as 'Robbers' by The 1975 and 'Snap Out of it' by Arctic Monkeys, we have ultimately begun to understand the way in which female characters are represented within the indie genre. We wish to mimic yet however, by also empowering females by portraying her as natural and innocent, yet also strong and independent asides from the involvement of a man. 

We also looked at female artists for inspiration of image such as 'Haim' and Ellie Rowsell, lead singer and guitarist from 'Wolf Alice' as well as more mainstream alternative artists such as Lana Del Rey, specifically to find inspiration for a make-up look to be used within the music video.