Grand theft iMac

(A parody)

Working with two colleagues, we scripted, storyboarded, shot, and edited this five-minute film.

A parody of an action movie, we use humour and exaggeration to highlight the stereotypes prevalent in this movie genre. Introducing the characters early and using diverse personalities quickly orients the viewer to the fact this is a spoof.

The movie starts using slow-motion, quickly picking up pace and intensity, which is subsequently maintained throughout. We explored different transitions, especially during the boxing scene.

Using a simple linear storyline allows the viewer to focus on the humour while the deliberately simple plot unfolds.

We had to conceive, film and edit the idea from scratch in two weeks. The task included working through all the pre-production planning processes associated with film production, including, among other things, budgeting, risk assessments, call sheets, and running orders. Using ‘hired’ actors highlighted the importance of proper planning and allowed us to complete the assignment within the allocated timeframe without hiccups.

The result is this short film for your enjoyment!

A little about me

Hi, I’m Lily. I’m 17 and have a passion for film. As long as I can remember, I have been unable to watch a film without asking ‘how & why?’ How was that made? Why did they shoot it that way? Why did they tell the story in that way?

When I started studying filmmaking at College, I began to learn about the processes and technical elements that make up film production. This led to more questions than answers! I started viewing films through different lenses as I better understood what was going on behind the scenes.

I’m fascinated with how films are shot, for example, ‘1917’, and its single continuous aspect and timeline. There must have been significant challenges shooting a movie this way, but these are outweighed by the result, leaving the audience feeling utterly involved and emotionally connected with the main characters.

Having visited last year, I was blown away by the approach and facilities. Even a short visit made me more confident about my desire to study film.