Class Critique:

Video Comments:
Above is the video we presented during our final class.  As noted in the comments from the class, there is an issue with the resolution when the virus (Bloody Mary) takes over.  Technically, these shots were filmed by myself using OBS so there might have been an issue during rendering  for YouTube that was not apparent when viewed in Premiere.  Eden and I will figure this out and have the fixed  video posted below.   One classmate commented that this resolution change actually added an element of spookiness to the video.  I could see adding some resolution variations intentionally to a future version. 

Also, it was noted that the video of searching showed how intimate this action is in reality.  Why does someone chose one link over another?  Why are certain words used over others? 

It was noted that our use of the closed captioning in one of the YouTube clips was an effective preface to Bloody Mary’s use of text after she takes over.  They noted that it was a good tool to tie those moments together.

Story Comments:
One comment was regarding the transition from when the user is searching for divination information to where Bloody Mark takes.  It was suggested that there be a moment, possibility a pause, before the take over happens as it is currently a quick transition.  I  would happen to agree with this comment.  There could possibly be a moment where the user considers clicking on a link that looks suspicious.  The user would then click on it triggering the take over.   Additionally, there are a few other ways this could be done but I do agree with the need for a moment. 

Sound Comments:
Our use of ambient noise (room noise) while the user typed were effective in establishing this piece in a realistic place.  These also added to the intimacy of the user in their private space. 

Our use of the robotic voice received mixed reviews.  One classmate thought that the voice broke them out of developing a sense of fear/horror that was being developed prior.  He suggested possibly using a more human sounding voice.  Others thought the robot voices were effective.  I agree with both and would actually try out having the voice transition from robotic into a human voice as if Bloody Mary was transitioning herself from virus to something more. 

Overall Notes:

Process:
I focused on learning and creating with Open Broadcasting Software (OBS) and Eden focused on Adobe Premiere. In addition to OBS and Premier, we utilized Mac screen recordings, OBS recordings, voice renderings through the Mac terminal, and audio editing within Audition.

Final Product:
I am happy with how everything turned out and look forward to using the tools I learned to create new media that I can use within my work.

Reflection:
Working with Eden was a joy which made this project run very smoothly.  We were able to meet at my apartment to work on editing as well as creation of a few aspects of the media components.  I feel fortunate that I was able to meet with my partner face to face during this isolating time of COVD.  I wouldn’t change how we worked together at all.

In regards to our final creation, there are aspects I would change and/or develop more if we choose to work on this piece more. I would add elements that make the viewer think the computer will crash at any moment due to Bloody Mary.   This could be accomplished through Premiere by way of creating flickers.  I would also add updates from the comments above. 

In conclusion, I feel that I am now able to look at video and sound media with an more critical eye.  I have a better understanding of how to use sound and video in telling a story and am glad I took this comm. class.