Movie Magic
Feb 28, 2022
Introduction
I'm Elisa Kim, and I had the privilege of co-directing "Bullshit," a student-led short film at UC San Diego alongside the film writer Nelly Zerbib. Written by Nelly Zerbib, this poignant film explores the profound themes of love, loss, and the unpredictability of life. "Bullshit" revolves around Saige, who is left shattered when Blue, the love of her life, mysteriously vanishes. By seamlessly shifting between past and present, the film unravels the events of Blue's last day while Saige grapples with grief and the search for answers. In this case study, I'll share my experiences, challenges, and creative decisions as the director of this emotionally charged project.
Pre-Production Phase
Concept Development:
Nelly Zerbib's compelling script immediately drew me in with its exploration of complex emotions and non-linear storytelling.
The story's depth and relatability made it an excellent choice for our student-led project.
Budget and Financing:
As a student-led film, securing funding was a challenge. We had to be resourceful and rely on the generosity of fellow students and crowdfunding.
Our limited budget demanded careful allocation to ensure the film's production quality.
Casting:
Casting was a crucial aspect of bringing the characters to life. We held auditions and found dedicated actors who could convey the emotional depth of their roles.
The chemistry between the actors was essential to make Saige and Blue's love story believable.
Location Selection:
We scouted locations on and around the UC San Diego campus that could evoke the emotions and memories essential to the story.
The familiarity of these settings lent authenticity to our student-led production.
Production Phase
Shooting Schedule:
With a tight production schedule, meticulous planning was essential to capture the non-linear narrative accurately.
Efficient scheduling helped us make the most of limited time and resources.
Emotional Nuances:
Capturing the raw emotions of the characters was a primary focus. I worked closely with the actors to ensure their performances were genuine and moving.
The non-linear structure demanded that actors could switch seamlessly between past and present emotions.
Visual Style:
We used a mix of lighting, camera angles, and color grading to distinguish between past and present scenes.
Cinematography played a pivotal role in conveying the emotional journey of the characters.
Post-Production Phase
Editing and Sound Design:
The editing process was meticulous to ensure smooth transitions between past and present.
Sound design was used to enhance the emotional impact of critical moments, guiding the audience through Saige's journey.
Music and Score:
The film's score was composed to complement the emotional intensity of the narrative.
Music was a powerful tool in evoking empathy and resonating with the audience.
Release and Reception
Film Festivals:
"Bullshit" premiered at UC San Diego's second annual film festival in 2023.
"Bullshit" received first place in the Muir Film Festival of 2023 as well, receiving praise for its storytelling and emotional depth.
We were thrilled to see our student-led film connect with the campus community.
Audience Response:
The film resonated strongly with viewers, who appreciated the exploration of love and loss.
The project's collaborative spirit and emotional storytelling left a lasting impact on our audience.
Conclusion
"Bullshit" was a labor of love, a testament to the dedication, talent, and passion of our student-led team. Through its exploration of love, loss, and the unexpected, the film invites viewers to reflect on life's uncertainties and the importance of cherishing the moments that matter. This project strengthened our bonds as filmmakers and reaffirmed the power of storytelling to connect with audiences on a profound level. As a director, I am proud to have been part of this journey, and I look forward to creating more meaningful films in the future.
Watch and learn more about the movie here.