Costume, Props, Location & Casting

Costume

The costumes that the characters are wearing are suitable for the characters and how I wanted them to, and how they do come across to the audience.

Charles Dixon (played by Haydn Kidd) was dressed in casual every-day clothes; jeans, a shirt and a jumper. His hair was gelled as to look “normal” to portray a realistic, young-adult character. The reason for this being that at first glance, his character is not the average criminal, which is different, something the audience will appreciate.

Camilla Dawson (played by myself) was dressed in smart, formal, business clothes; black trousers, a stripy top, a long black cardigan and formal, black high heel shoes. Her hair was tied up to show professionalism, as I wanted the audience to think that she was going somewhere business related.

Props

The props that were used are:

• Briefcase

• Brown shoulder bag

• Mobile phone

• “Virus X”

I did not include many props as I did not want to over-complicate things, and I also believe that what I used was appropriate and fitting. By only using a small amount of props, I tried to create a sense of mystery and suspense, which I believe I achieved.

The briefcase is used in the beginning of the opening sequence when Camilla is walking to Charles’ house. There is a shot that focuses on the briefcase, letting the audience know that it has some significance. The briefcase, obviously, contains the virus.

The brown shoulder bag is used by Charles when in the second location. This replaces the briefcase, as he has transported the virus from the briefcase to the bag.

The mobile phone is used, again, in the second location, mainly to inform the audience of the situation. This is where the audience learn that Charles is the criminal.

“Virus X” can be seen in the very last shot, when it is finally revealed to the audience. It is in a small, transparent container to make it more realistic and believable. 

Locations

There are only two main locations that are used in the film; Charles' house and the discreet rural area. The first location is my house, and I decided to use it as it is not the average criminal’s house, which would create mystery to the audience.

The second location is Bellevue Park in Wrexham. I chose this as the second location as it is quiet and discreet, which is exactly the location I wanted.  

Casting

There are only two characters throughout the opening sequence; Charles Dixon and Camilla Dawson.

Charles Dixon is played by Haydn Kidd. I chose Haydn to play the role of Charles because he fitted my initial idea of him. He was the right age, and had all the right features. Haydn doesn’t look like a criminal when the audience first look at him, but after realising that he is actually the criminal, it is very believable. I feel that Haydn fitted the role extremely well.

Camilla Dawson is played by myself. I struggled to find a female actress that I felt fitted the role of Camilla well, and research showed that people thought I was the best person to play Camilla, as she has a very formal business side about her. I feel that I made the right choice to play Camilla, as mine and Haydn’s characters both work well together.