New Project | Chase Sequence

We've recently taken on a new project where we have been asked to create a short (3 minute) chase sequence. Unlike previous projects, we were given complete creative freedom on this project. Basically, we were allowed to create our own sequence rather than recreating something from an already existing film or TV show. We were given a brief which stated that the sequence needed a start, middle and end. There also needed to be a clear reason as to why the chase was happening and its conclusion. We also aren't allowed to include any vehicles or bikes in the chase.

In On Film Editing: An Introduction to the Art of Film Construction, Edward Dmytryk rules, of film editing:

• Never make a cut without a positive reason  “The only reason for using another cut is to improve the scene.”

• Whenever possible cut ‘in movement’  “Creating a ‘diversion’ of sorts … is also the principle at work in the action cut.” The goal is seamless, invisible, “magical” editing. This is not possible without the greatest command of timing: timing that comes from an understanding of human perception and eye movement.

• The fresh is preferable to the stale  “In art, the obvious is a sin.” Dmytryk suggests that if frames must be added between shots, do so at the beginning of a fresh, new shot so that the viewer accepts the lingering frames as part of exposition for a new angle or shot.

• All scenes should begin and end with continuing action “Subconsciously suggest to the viewer that he is seeing a fragment of continuing life, not a staged scene with a visible framework.” In other words, enter after it started leave before it finishes.

• Cut for proper values rather than proper matches. “The film’s dramatic requirements should always take precedence over the mere aesthetics of editing.” Continuity is not the most important aspect of editing.

• Substance first – then Form “Technical skill counts for nothing if it is used only to manufacture films which have little to do with humanity.”

We also watched some various examples of chase sequences in film.

After this research my crew and I had a meeting to discuss ideas and how we wanted to approach the project. Our plan is as follows:

• The sequence begins in a laundrette. Our character enters with the intention of doing his washing however, all the machines are in use except for one which has completed its cycle.

• Our character places his washing on the chairs and notices the machine. He decides to take it upon himself to remove the washing but whilst doing so, the person the washing belongs to, enters the laundrette.

• As he comes in he sees our character throw the washing out of the machine onto the chairs. He's not happy about this

• They exchange a Mexican Stand-Off until the second character decides to grab the first character's bag of washing and run off with it. This begins the chase.

• They then run through the uni campus and come to some traffic lights. The second character makes it across but as the first character gets there, the lights go red.

• Once the light turns green the chase is continued over at the second uni campus where it reaches its conclusion outside the Ember Bar and Lounge where they settle their differences over a pint.