Episode Six: Behind the Screams of James Gunn’s “Scream Queens”

By James Gunn
URL: http://www.moviemaker.com/blog/item/james_gunn_scream_queens_behind_the_screams_20081125/
MovieMaker Tip of the Week: Make three shots lists!

When I’m directing a movie, I’m a big believer in preparation. I believe most the work on a film is done before you ever set foot on set. Being over-prepared actually allows more freedom for improv and fun on a set. And before I direct any scene I always have three shot lists.

The first shot list is my HOPEFUL LIST. This will usually have all the coverage and showy shots I would get if I actually had the time to get them. This seldom happens. But, every once in a while, a day moves more quickly than usual, and I’m able to get all my basic shots in and have a little time left over. That’s when I get into these HOPEFUL shots, that can spice up a scene.