Making an Art-Driven Film on Jerome Caja

Visual Storytelling by Bruce Block

A big thanks to veteran filmmaker Bruce Block for his three-day "Visual Storytelling" class at Lucas Film in the Presidio. It was insightful and helpful for mapping out the layers of art direction in my film on Jerome. Hands-down this was the best continuing education class the San Francisco Film Society (SFFS) has offered. Bruce gave me the vocabulary needed to communicate my artistic ideas effectively to my crew. His graphs and charts for creating design roadmaps are golden. I also love how he can boil down a film to its one basic “Rule.”

Because Jerome has been so marginalized, we (the audience) need to see the bigger picture. Bruce confirmed my idea that using a wide-screen format for my film will give a broader perspective on Jerome and pull him out of the periphery.

I highly recommend Bruce's book "The Visual Story" too. It will enhance how you use the visual elements of your film to tell your story. If you ever get a chance to see him speak in person, treat yourself. He is entertaining and informative, and he will give you key storyboard techniques that are essential to crafting a beautiful film.

Website: www.bruceblock.com

by Anthony Cianciolo

---