Tuesday, March 31, 2009
3D Image From The Matrix
Thursday, March 5, 2009
The Matrix
1. Where was the Matrix filmed?
The Matrix was filmed in Sydney, using the buildings as a backdrop. Some scenes were filmed in sets built for the film.
2. Where did the directors get the idea for the Matrix and what problems did that cause?
The Wachowski Brothers came up with the idea for the Matrix mainly off the top of their heads. They got inspiration and ideas for filming techniques from things like graphic novels, anime, and overdone kung-fu fight scenes. The only problem was that there were more limitations with what images they could create in the film. It needed to be a bit more realistic (ironic..).
3. In the movie, what is ‘The Matrix’?
The Matrix is a computer generated 'dream world', which is explained as being the world all around us. In 'The Matrix', the world we think is real is portrayed as being a computer program that humans are plugged into. In the real world, AI has advanced to the point that machines have taken over. The machines grow humans in fields where they are curled up in pods full of liquid and plugged into the Matrix. The purpose of the Matrix is to occupy the minds of the humans so they can generate heat and energy for the machines to function on.
4. If the Matrix is only a computer program, why do people die in real life if they die in the program?
It is an extreme version of the placebo effect; although the death isn't real, the complete belief that the death is real is enough to destroy the mind for real. Morpheus states in the film that 'the body cannot survive without the mind,' meaning that when a person's mind is destroyed, so is their body.
5. How was the fight sequence filmed and what influence did the Hong Kong film makers have on these scenes?
The fight sequences in The Matrix were filmed mainly using wires to hoist the actors up while they flipped around and performed choreographed moves. Some of the scenes were sans wires; the actors trained in the fighting style required and did all the moves themselves.
6. How did they get the 3D still image effect?
They achieved the 3D still image effect by blending shots taken from different cameras around the scene.
7. What steps were involved in filming the helicopter scene?
The directors needed to do research regarding what glass they would need to create the effect that they wanted when it smashed. The shots on the ladder of the helicopter was filmed on a bungee cord, and the magic of animation enabled them to later edit in the ladder. In the shots where Neo was holding Trinity from the cord at the edge of the building, he was actually standing on a huge step.
8. What is AI (Artificial Intelligence)?
Artificial intelligence is the intelligence of machines. It is a computer's ability to calculate, or 'think', on a sophisticated level.
9. Movies like “The Matrix” and the Terminator franchise represent a fear of new technologies. Discuss why you think people may be worried about the advances in computer technology.
People may be worried about the advances in computer technology because people have a fear of the unknown. No-one knows what will happen when computers become too smart. They may try to gain dominance over humans, they may destroy everything Man has created, or go around destroying forests and wildlife. The bottom line is, anything could happen, because Man is relentlessly created more sophisticated technology. The advancement of machines is unstoppable (or as Agent Smith would say, inevitable..).
10. What does the character ‘Neo’ represent?
To me, Neo represents Jesus. There are a few references in the film comparing him to Jesus. That weirdo guy at the start who came to his door after the computer said 'knock, knock...', said, 'you're my savior man, my own personal Jesus Christ.' I believe the directors added this in to emphasise the similarities. Neo is the 'One', who is supposed to save the world, and has the power to change the world as he likes.
Ø Extension questions for Blogging
DONE - Make active links to sites with information about Hong Kong wire fight sequences or movies that use that technique.
DONE - Create a Matrix style sequence using animation software such as Pivot and put it on your Blog.
TO DO - Use an image from ‘The Matrix’ and make it 3D.
Sunday, February 8, 2009
Photographer
Skills/Interests needed
To be a freelance photographer, you need to have an interest in photography, and the commitment to learn the skills required. You need a good sense of how to position and visualise a shot, and you need to be creative and imaginative as well. Having a good quality camera helps, but is not necessary to begin with. Having a good camera doesn't mean you are a professional, and having a dodgy camera doesn't change how skilled you are.
Further Opportunities
For those that want a career in photography, there are jobs in;
fashion
magazines
crime scene photography
erotic photography
glamour photography
paparazzi
photojournalism
DescriptionEducation Level and Courses
Advanced Diploma of Photography: Advanced Diploma
Bachelor of Arts - Photography: Bachelor Degree (Pass)