Issue link: http://digital.copcomm.com/i/1124104
degenerated into a cruel and confining surrealist cage. The basic concept for the design was simple, to make the ordinary appear extraordinary! The work of gifted American photographer and visual artist Gregory Crewdson inspired the imagery and lighting. Cinematographer Zach Galler was masterful in creating character and mood through his lighting, as well as his compelling visual compositions. The anamorphic 2.39:1 lens format was chosen in order to maximize the staging and storytelling possibilities. The sets, locations and their spatial proportions were all tailored and selected in order to accommodate this widescreen cinematic approach, a format that really does have the potential to make the ordinary, extraordinary. Eastward to Savannah The story's real events took place in Springfield, Missouri, but the "Show-Me" state does not have a significant film incentive program and lacks a robust filmmaking infrastructure. The producing studio wanted to make this show in Atlanta, but it proved to be far too busy and crowded; so they decided to shoot in Savannah, Georgia, instead, so they could still capitalize on Georgia's significant financial incentives and rebates. Hollywood's addiction to pursuing subsidies has turned its filmmakers into migrant art workers more akin to modern day paleo-hunter-gathers. I have worked in many regions, as well as foreign countries, so I have no fear of remote locations or the "new." I believe that filmmakers should always be open to the possibility of working in cinematically diverse locations and proactively solving the challenges that may be encountered, provided that they have the full support of their producing studios and that they require their appointed managers to provide the leadership necessary for addressing the challenges the region may present or that the appointed filmmakers may encounter. A B A. BACKLOT LOCATION PHOTO STUDY OF THE ABANDONED MILL CREEK HOUSING DEVELOPMENT, RINCON, GEORGIA. B. BACKLOT COMMUNITY LAYOUT SHOWING BOTH THE BUILT HOUSES AND THE PROPOSED DIGITAL BACKLOT SET EXTENSIONS. SKETCHUP MODEL BY HIND AL-SHANEEN.