Off the Wall

In the Spring of 2007, Circle Eight Film Group members watched a compilation of the 10 finalists in the Just a Minute section of BIAFF 2007. Inspired by these short films, it was decided that we would make one during the year. Meetings started in May and an idea was discussed. After a few more meetings the idea had expanded so much so that by August, instead of being out on location, a longer film script was being developed. This was eventually finalised at the end of 2007

Locations were sought for different scenes, casting took place, costumes were hired and almost everything was set for the first shoot at the end of January when we realised that we were still not quite prepared to start filming. The scheduled day was not wasted though......

We turned the shoot into a rehearsal day with the intention of making life a lot easier for ourselves when we returned to the location in March. Lights were set up for each shot and their positions noted. Camera positions were also noted and different types of shots tried out. The Director rehearsed the scene with the actors and costumes were fitted and altered where necessary.

Sargeant in charge of all the Kings Horses & men

Having spent a very productive day in rehearsal, cast and crew moved on to an outside location the following week for some actual filming. Two sequences were to be shot here, and despite some very cold and windy conditions, the first scene was completed in a few hours. Filming began with different actors on the second sequence but eventually fading light called a halt to a successful day.

Steve commissions our new camera dolly on a Wall shot

The following week, clear blue sky and brilliant sunshine enabled this part of the film to be completed.

OTW crew shooting final scene behind wall

The next scene to be shot involved hiring a film studio for a day. Production members found exactly what they were looking for at Guildford College, and the shoot was planned and actors fully rehearsed as all the filming had to be completed in one day. Although the Group's camera was used, much use was made of the studio lighting and the College's new plasma screen. This, when linked to a laptop computer, gave a perfect picture of appropriate stills brought up to illustrate the dialogue.

The film was completed at the end of 2008. We are pleased to say that 'Off The Wall' won a Highly Commended Certificate at the Surrey Film-Video Festival 2009, and Three Stars in The IAC British International Ameteur Film Competition 2009.