The boy at the beach, playing in the surf, all it takes is a pair of swim trunks and the beach and you have an instant smile (No Nintendo required). It is amazing at the shear pleasure a child can find at the beach, hours and hours. It reminded me of my days, from my grandparents first taking me to the beach, to the endless days of surfing over the summer. Time at the beach is like time in another world. Talk about slowing down and getting away from technology (Tech-mology). I wish all children (adults too) could experience the joy of ‘a day at the beach’.
Seeing people learn how to dance, moving in rhythm together. It reminded me of why I enjoyed going to a club and the line dancing song would come on. To see complete strangers all dance together to one song… fascinating. The world can be such a social and sharing place.
The glistening water, the beautiful sunrise/set all reminded me of being on the sea sailing to the earth’s music. Oh the days I have spent on or in the water. Funny how I had forgotten about them and this short movie brought it all back as a great big flood of memories. The symbolism of light breaking through the night, the trees, and lighthouse was interesting (not sure if that was intended but I interpreted the light as beacon of hope in a world that can be sometimes full of despair).
I was pondering afterwards how long it took to put the pieces together, meaning I am sure it required some effort to even film in the first place. Then to edit and synchronize it to a very nice piece of music, again just my mind at work about individual creativity and the effort it takes. A rewarding feeling it must be…
I shot the video on little Sony point and shoot digital camera, and I edited it on Final Cut Pro 6. Obviously not the fanciest of cameras, but it was discreet and portable. The sound was terrible, that’s why I decided to put music over it.
Raving was shot with a professional crew on Super 16mm film.
Having just watched the movie a couple more times, I noticed the two young people looking with awe into the sky. That scene reminds me of the awe that people have when experiencing a solar eclipse. Very cool.
The use of light – on the water, and through the tree – was really effective. You might just make a good filmmaker yet!
I really like this video. My favourite part was the line dancing; you were really able to sync it up with the music. It felt like they were crawling along with the music. Yes, crawling. That’s the feeling I got!
Thank you so much for sharing insight on your production of your short movie (El Faro). Again the creative insight is enchanting. I viewed the film with unbiased interpretation and marveled upon the reflection it provided me. Anyone who can package all that together in a one minute video should be extremely proud.
I really like this! The music is really great; it feels very much like something Nancy Wilson would do for a Cameron Crowe film, you know what I mean? It’s layered with emotion. Or maybe it feels that way; this is the kind of film/video where I think the viewer takes a bit of their emotion into it.
I used an M Ward song for ‘El Faro.’ It’s the first track on his album “Transistor Radio.”
A musician named Daron Murphy (currently in a band called ‘The Little Death’) composed the original music for ‘Raving.” The final song that Zooey sings is a version of Louis Armstrong’s ‘Hello, Dolly,’ and the band backing her up is called Michael Arenella’s Dreamland Orchestra. They are not featured in the scene at the end, but they recorded the music. Both bands play all over NYC, and are super fun.
Perhaps it was more a reflection of my state of mind but I could not feeling a sense of the morbid when first seeing the young boy face down in the water. The image seemed so at odds with the accompanying music yet not so much with the vastness of the ocean, the fading light and the cut to the church-like building with the apparent bell-tower.
But then it lifts. The tower is one of light; the ‘sprinkles’ of light in the water; the birds; the smiling girl and boy looking skyward with sheer delight. People dancing in a goofy, ‘I don’t care kind of way’, the girl with the towel on the beach and the young boy emerging to reveal to us that well, actually, all is well in the world so long as you act the goose occasionally and rediscover part of yourself and the elements.
I watched the clip a few times over the last couple of days and the more you look the more you see and feel. I guess we all see things differently. The music was perfect. It made me smile. Lots. I sense I once was, and hopefully still am, that young boy in the water. This 60 seconds of film reminded me of that and for this, thank-you.
Nicely done. The harmony and pacing of the editing with the music gives these little life moments a reflective and poetic feel that anyone can relate to. Tranquility, beauty and soul. The piece carries a mood, it swings, and it tickles feelings and thoughts.
These little cameras are so great to capture moments that we sometimes take for granted, until they become part of our art.
By the way the microphones are getting better on these little still cameras that shoot video.
maybe a silly question, but do you like sailing or being at sea?
It’s funny because in this movie we have ofcourse a view of the sea and water, but also of a lighthouse.
One of your former pictures on top of your website was also made near the sea, maybe even on a ship. The present picture ofcourse is obvious. I study nautical sciences at the Antwerp Maritime Academy that’s why I noticed al these things.
I’m just wondering, because its funny how some people are attracted by the sea and some aren’t
The beacon at the end of humanity. People and nature are touching in that initial, joyous way. People learning to express; men and women learning to communicate. There’s a parking lot. I couldn’t fit that one in. Beauty in lights and beauty in safety?
How are you doing??
Must say, nice video. You have a good perception of things. And this means besides acting you can do some directing as well(You got potential)!!!!
Well, I just watched The Bourne Series and your acting was really very good. Will watch some of your other work in the future as-well. And I also got to know that you are engaged in some social activities too, nice keep it up.
Regards,
Akshay Damariya.
20/M/India.
(I would feel very fortunate if you reply to this)
;D
I’ve been reading the online articles about Persephone in the Village Voice and Playbill, and I am so envious of anyone living in NYC who can see this show! I wish even more I could be there, or that you and The Ridge Theatre Co. were doing this again out west. Damn. Really, damn.
Aw, well, have a great set of performances, and well, ‘break a leg’.
Nice video. Check out Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. Some of the scenes reminded me of where I live; best place on earth. Cabot Trail is a must see; especially in fall. Love your work by the way.
I will post this once and not look back. Then I will not feel disappointed if the comment doesn’t show up for some reason. I found your Facebook page, but didn’t know if you had set it up yourself or if it was run by fans. I thought the floating boy was a bit odd as well. Maybe I just read too many horror novels. If I were a filmmaker, then I don’t know if I’d ever want to employ children in a movie because of ethical concerns. The music was lively though. I know El Faro means “light,” so I take it you were trying to make the video light and uplifting. The participants in the film look like regular people–not Hollywood starlets– so it’s easier for people like me to relate to it. I really enjoyed the scenery, especially the sea because I live in a land-locked state. Thanks.
This post popped up again with a recent date, but seems like the video is from a couple of years ago. I’m wondering how it relates to you now. I’m sure as an editor you’ve come further, and that as a traveller you’ve also delved deeper. I’d love to see something you did tomorrow.
Video suggests that by nature, you’ve got a good bit of zen in ya. is that accurate at all? i wish i could say the same for myself!
i’ve also been wondering about something. i really enjoy your work, and appreciate the thoughtfulness that goes into it. so you seem like a good person to ask: is there an acting equivalent to writer’s block? have you grappled with it? if so, i’d love to know how. i’m a writer who has been blocked, really blocked, since my twin girls were born five years ago. we almost lost em due to complications from prematurity, and i’ve been creatively blocked up ever since.
anyway, i like to pose the question to creative people, in hopes of finding a way to plow on through.
I have just finished browsing through your website julia, and found
it very interesting particularly your humanitarian interests and
efforts. I would be interested to know if you any knowledge of
your mothers family tree ? my reason being that I am english and
of the same surname though I now live in France.
I like. It gave me a sorta feeling of wonder and hope. That’s just what I felt watching it.
Julia,
I thought the video was very peaceful and harmonious. The little boy floating in the water threw me off a bit in the beginning.
The boy at the beach, playing in the surf, all it takes is a pair of swim trunks and the beach and you have an instant smile (No Nintendo required). It is amazing at the shear pleasure a child can find at the beach, hours and hours. It reminded me of my days, from my grandparents first taking me to the beach, to the endless days of surfing over the summer. Time at the beach is like time in another world. Talk about slowing down and getting away from technology (Tech-mology). I wish all children (adults too) could experience the joy of ‘a day at the beach’.
Seeing people learn how to dance, moving in rhythm together. It reminded me of why I enjoyed going to a club and the line dancing song would come on. To see complete strangers all dance together to one song… fascinating. The world can be such a social and sharing place.
The glistening water, the beautiful sunrise/set all reminded me of being on the sea sailing to the earth’s music. Oh the days I have spent on or in the water. Funny how I had forgotten about them and this short movie brought it all back as a great big flood of memories. The symbolism of light breaking through the night, the trees, and lighthouse was interesting (not sure if that was intended but I interpreted the light as beacon of hope in a world that can be sometimes full of despair).
I was pondering afterwards how long it took to put the pieces together, meaning I am sure it required some effort to even film in the first place. Then to edit and synchronize it to a very nice piece of music, again just my mind at work about individual creativity and the effort it takes. A rewarding feeling it must be…
Sorry this is off topic, but great piece on the Mets in WSJ today.
I was at the game too and managed to capture some pretty good video of David Wright’s 3-run homer:
http://www.candidcritic.com/david-wrights-opening-day-homer/2009/04/17/
What did you shoot this on?
I shot the video on little Sony point and shoot digital camera, and I edited it on Final Cut Pro 6. Obviously not the fanciest of cameras, but it was discreet and portable. The sound was terrible, that’s why I decided to put music over it.
Raving was shot with a professional crew on Super 16mm film.
Great choice.
Julia,
Having just watched the movie a couple more times, I noticed the two young people looking with awe into the sky. That scene reminds me of the awe that people have when experiencing a solar eclipse. Very cool.
The use of light – on the water, and through the tree – was really effective. You might just make a good filmmaker yet!
I really like this video. My favourite part was the line dancing; you were really able to sync it up with the music. It felt like they were crawling along with the music. Yes, crawling. That’s the feeling I got!
Julia,
Thank you so much for sharing insight on your production of your short movie (El Faro). Again the creative insight is enchanting. I viewed the film with unbiased interpretation and marveled upon the reflection it provided me. Anyone who can package all that together in a one minute video should be extremely proud.
I really like this! The music is really great; it feels very much like something Nancy Wilson would do for a Cameron Crowe film, you know what I mean? It’s layered with emotion. Or maybe it feels that way; this is the kind of film/video where I think the viewer takes a bit of their emotion into it.
Hi Julia,
I was wondering who did the music for your short…
…was it made specifically for ‘El Faro’? or was it something you came across after shooting it?
Regards,
Leigh
I used an M Ward song for ‘El Faro.’ It’s the first track on his album “Transistor Radio.”
A musician named Daron Murphy (currently in a band called ‘The Little Death’) composed the original music for ‘Raving.” The final song that Zooey sings is a version of Louis Armstrong’s ‘Hello, Dolly,’ and the band backing her up is called Michael Arenella’s Dreamland Orchestra. They are not featured in the scene at the end, but they recorded the music. Both bands play all over NYC, and are super fun.
Julia!! i love it, but i want to know if you film that in puerto rico??.
I did, how’d you guess?
But the tango class was filmed in Argentina.
Dear Julia,
Perhaps it was more a reflection of my state of mind but I could not feeling a sense of the morbid when first seeing the young boy face down in the water. The image seemed so at odds with the accompanying music yet not so much with the vastness of the ocean, the fading light and the cut to the church-like building with the apparent bell-tower.
But then it lifts. The tower is one of light; the ‘sprinkles’ of light in the water; the birds; the smiling girl and boy looking skyward with sheer delight. People dancing in a goofy, ‘I don’t care kind of way’, the girl with the towel on the beach and the young boy emerging to reveal to us that well, actually, all is well in the world so long as you act the goose occasionally and rediscover part of yourself and the elements.
I watched the clip a few times over the last couple of days and the more you look the more you see and feel. I guess we all see things differently. The music was perfect. It made me smile. Lots. I sense I once was, and hopefully still am, that young boy in the water. This 60 seconds of film reminded me of that and for this, thank-you.
Julia,
Nicely done. The harmony and pacing of the editing with the music gives these little life moments a reflective and poetic feel that anyone can relate to. Tranquility, beauty and soul. The piece carries a mood, it swings, and it tickles feelings and thoughts.
These little cameras are so great to capture moments that we sometimes take for granted, until they become part of our art.
By the way the microphones are getting better on these little still cameras that shoot video.
Best
Paul
Dude!!! That’s El Faro in Cabo Rojo, Puerto Rico! That’s awesome.
Strikes me as a mix of Koyaanisqatsi (except that this is maybe life in balance) and Buena Vista Social Club. I like it.
Hey,
maybe a silly question, but do you like sailing or being at sea?
It’s funny because in this movie we have ofcourse a view of the sea and water, but also of a lighthouse.
One of your former pictures on top of your website was also made near the sea, maybe even on a ship. The present picture ofcourse is obvious. I study nautical sciences at the Antwerp Maritime Academy that’s why I noticed al these things.
I’m just wondering, because its funny how some people are attracted by the sea and some aren’t
The beacon at the end of humanity. People and nature are touching in that initial, joyous way. People learning to express; men and women learning to communicate. There’s a parking lot. I couldn’t fit that one in. Beauty in lights and beauty in safety?
That music sounded so familiar, then I saw the credit. Classic Brian Wilson tune. Nice film.
Hey julia,
How are you doing??
Must say, nice video. You have a good perception of things. And this means besides acting you can do some directing as well(You got potential)!!!!
Well, I just watched The Bourne Series and your acting was really very good. Will watch some of your other work in the future as-well. And I also got to know that you are engaged in some social activities too, nice keep it up.
Regards,
Akshay Damariya.
20/M/India.
(I would feel very fortunate if you reply to this)
;D
you beautiful connected video and music.try as a director sometime
Complimenti !
Il video trasmette serenità e la musica sembra fatta su misura.
Continua così
Compliments !
The video inspire serenity and the music seems tailor-made.
Keep up the good work
Hey Julia,
I’ve been reading the online articles about Persephone in the Village Voice and Playbill, and I am so envious of anyone living in NYC who can see this show! I wish even more I could be there, or that you and The Ridge Theatre Co. were doing this again out west. Damn. Really, damn.
Aw, well, have a great set of performances, and well, ‘break a leg’.
Nice video. Check out Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia, Canada. Some of the scenes reminded me of where I live; best place on earth. Cabot Trail is a must see; especially in fall. Love your work by the way.
How long does it take for u to do this julia ?
satz from malaysia
Nice video Julia.
Uplifting. Mood enhancer for a blah day.
Time for another. Perhaps el furgon de cola (another beloved American icon)?
I will post this once and not look back. Then I will not feel disappointed if the comment doesn’t show up for some reason. I found your Facebook page, but didn’t know if you had set it up yourself or if it was run by fans. I thought the floating boy was a bit odd as well. Maybe I just read too many horror novels. If I were a filmmaker, then I don’t know if I’d ever want to employ children in a movie because of ethical concerns. The music was lively though. I know El Faro means “light,” so I take it you were trying to make the video light and uplifting. The participants in the film look like regular people–not Hollywood starlets– so it’s easier for people like me to relate to it. I really enjoyed the scenery, especially the sea because I live in a land-locked state. Thanks.
This post popped up again with a recent date, but seems like the video is from a couple of years ago. I’m wondering how it relates to you now. I’m sure as an editor you’ve come further, and that as a traveller you’ve also delved deeper. I’d love to see something you did tomorrow.
Very nice,well done
Very nice. Editing, framing, all spot on.
The first scenes remind be a bit of the opening sequence in “Ordinary People”.
Good work, Julia.
Nice…El Faro – Hope you guys stayed long enough to catch the sunset from the cliffs. A must do for every visit to the mother land…
Nice video
Uplifting. The joy of the water, beach, people just having some fun. Thanks for sharing it.
Andrew
JULIA !
I knew that was my beautiful island !!! So happy you were able to experience it. El Faro, one of my favorites places from my isla.
That lighthouse and beach is in ky hometown in Cabo Rojo. I would have loved to give you a tour of my beautiful town. I really liked the video
Video suggests that by nature, you’ve got a good bit of zen in ya. is that accurate at all? i wish i could say the same for myself!
i’ve also been wondering about something. i really enjoy your work, and appreciate the thoughtfulness that goes into it. so you seem like a good person to ask: is there an acting equivalent to writer’s block? have you grappled with it? if so, i’d love to know how. i’m a writer who has been blocked, really blocked, since my twin girls were born five years ago. we almost lost em due to complications from prematurity, and i’ve been creatively blocked up ever since.
anyway, i like to pose the question to creative people, in hopes of finding a way to plow on through.
I know this post has nothing to do with your great little movie, but posting here because you haven’t put up a new one recently.
Be warned: Vancouver’s food cart favs – Japadog – is coming to New York City. (The East Village, for what it’s worth.)
Wasabi and weiners – yum (for some, I guess)!
Interesting to watch a vibrant city shot.
Try a natural wild shot.
I would say Fiordland or Stewart Island, with a shot of the sky panning down to view the nightlife.
Though its cold, so maybe a remote.
Anyway, liked your work.
I have just finished browsing through your website julia, and found
it very interesting particularly your humanitarian interests and
efforts. I would be interested to know if you any knowledge of
your mothers family tree ? my reason being that I am english and
of the same surname though I now live in France.
I wish you all success in your career.