Short Film Research: Scruples/ mystery

  After looking into a few short films in which applied to our genre, I found that that that “Scruples” by Adrian Powers was a great fit. This film is based on two ‘cleaners’ for a criminal gang who have been sent to tie up a loose end. However, one of them is an undercover cop who finds himself in a tricky spot. A slightly insincere account of how policeman would actually have to act Is the approach that overall surrounds this film.

 

    This short film has great similarities when it comes to appealing to an audience, including sounds. Commonly sound sounds in this genre include dramatic sounds that interpret exhaustion, or sudden surprise. As found in the short film, background noise is intriguing and allows the audience to feel a sense of suspense. The mystery genre often uses costumes that may make a character look overlooked, like in the short film where they were basic-colored coats. Lighting is often dimmed down during these genres, with cooler/ more unwelcoming tones. Some props used were fake weapons are often used. In this short film, a fake weapon is used as threatening material. Another commonly found prop includes fake blood, often put in to confuse the reader. 

 

In the mystery genre, most editing styles are found repetitive. With cut scenes, that often appear to be longer. As well as clips put and keep them wondering, also presented in ‘Scruples.’ to apply to flashbacks, that may be found as foreshadowing for the reader. In Scruples, we see scenes that are cut off before we can what happens next, to connect with readers and have them have a sense of confusion. Many shots are used to emphasize the current feeling of each character. For example, in the car, both over-the-shoulder shots are used to allow readers to view what the character is viewing. This also applies when close-up shots are used during the more hostile and violent scenes. Giving the audience the ability to reflect on the current emotions and feelings surrounding that particular scene. 

 

In total, many Mystery Genre films can be found similar by audience appeals, such as “Jet” or “Seraphim.” After watching many Mysteries films/ short films, I have found great interest in this genre. Such as its ability to keep the audience watching, as well as its ability to connect with an audience in making them feel as if they have a role in figuring out the mystery themselves. However, this does come with disadvantages that don't appeal to me, such as one element which includes the ability to create an overall plot. Most times, I feel as if makers of films do not properly create a plot that is not only interesting but also asks a main question, “what is going to happen next?”