Final Film Opening

 At last we have our film! Months of planning and hours of filming all tied together, we ar every proud of our end product and have most indefinitely learned from this experience as a whole. Attached Below is "The Pub." Enjoy!

Sounds used in the opening- Alejandra A

 

Background Score and Sound Design Choices

We decided for the opening scene to record an alternative to the original audio of the actors speaking in order to make it easier to hear what they are saying. ADR or Automated Dialogue Replacement using a voice over provided the clarity needed to present the material professionally. The opening scene has very little dialogue and relies much more upon telling the story visually. It is not until the final three lines of dialogue at the end of this two-minute sequence that there is any conversation.

In order to create a sense of tension and suspense through-out the entirety of the opening sequence, we chose to utilize a non-copyrighted background score called "Ticking Tension Trailer" from YouTube. This background score would be the main background score for our film. It also creates an ongoing emotional tone in conjunction with the on-screen action. We were originally searching for a simple ticking clock sound effect to layer over the scene where the spy looks at her watch. However, after reviewing the Ticking Tension Trailer track; it was discovered that it included a rhythmic ticking motif. Thus, we could use this background score to help create the overall atmosphere for our film.

The track incorporates many common elements of thriller scoring, including dramatic percussion and sustained tones, along with a constant ticking, to create an urgent feeling. The ticking also relates back to the concept of time that is central to the story of this spy film. It serves as a type of foreshadowing through sound to emphasize how much time will be critical to the success of the mission.

Creating Suspense Through Audio Motifs

The repetitive "tick-tock" serves as a leitmotif. A leitmotiv is a repeated audio device used to represent an idea or tension throughout the film. When Agent Valeria determines that something went awry with her mission, she hears the tick-tock much louder and this makes it much more meaningful. It implies that the crisis at hand is not resolved and there could be other repercussions for the character. In spy films, the leitmotiv technique is commonly employed to create anticipation among the viewers of what may occur next and keep the suspense going.

Utilizing a suspenseful background music throughout the entire opening sequence, in addition to creating an element of unification of pacing within the sequence itself, aids in producing a rhythm that is both synchronized to the movements of the spy as well as mirroring his precise and secretive actions. The combination of ADR (Automated Dialogue Replacement) voice over, and a suspenseful, non-diegetic soundtrack create an immersive viewing experience for the audience, while maintaining a sense of tension from the start to finish of the film.

Editing Process in Adobe Pro- Alejandra A

 

The very beginning of the editing process for our project involved importing each camera clip from the memory card onto our classroom's computer and then into Adobe Premiere Pro. Our group was initially concerned that there would not be enough usable footage to reach the required 2 minutes in length. We were pleased to find when we had imported the footage into Premiere Pro's Project panel that we had collected a large quantity of quality usable footage shot at a number of different angles and moments that would provide us with a wide range of options to organize into an overall sequence.

After having set up our media files in Premiere Pro, we then arranged these in a timeline matching the events in the storyboard. We placed the clips in chronological order using the selection tool (drag and drop). In addition, there were many times when we had to cut parts out of the clips (by using the razor tool) for unnecessary parts of the clip. We also used the trim tool to fine tune the time of some of the shot transitions so that they flowed as smoothly and as natural as possible.

One of the biggest challenges in the editing was recording and syncing Agent Valeria's VO. The time it took to match the timing of her VO with her lips was a lot of work. After we would move an audio clip to better fit the timeline that was showing the characters' mouth movement. We kept adjusting the timing and space on the tracks to get them synced up as best possible. It was a long and tedious process because any difference in timing or space made the scene look fake.

Another time-consuming aspect of the editing process was visually linking all the cuts together by making sure all the footage was in the correct order. The Ripple Edit tool was used often to cut sections of footage to fit in the open spaces between scenes as well as to help with the organization of the timeline. The Slip edit tool was also used often. This allowed us to move certain parts of clips but still have them at the same spot on the timeline.

Transitions were added to transition the audience smoothly from one scene to another. When a cross dissolve or other transitional was unnecessary we would use a simple cut to keep the suspenseful feeling in the film. Due to the amount of time spent on reviewing, cutting and fine tuning each clip it took several class periods to complete our final edit.

Adobe Premiere Pro gave us a lot of tools we could use to take our unprocessed video and turn it into a cohesive film. Syncing dialogue, organizing clips, etc. took a lot of time but both of those processes were helpful in clarifying the narrative of the film as well as making sure the end product looked like something you would see on TV.

The Inspired new title 'The Pub'- Alejandra A

 

The Meaning Behind the Title The Pub

The use of the title "The Pub" illustrates how vital the setting is to the narrative. Instead of our group using the original working title "RogueHer", we selected a title for our film that highlights the location from which the most pivotal moment of the opening scene originates. During filming, the pub's name was frequently shown either centrally framed or as an unobtrusive background element. Due to the repeated exposure of the pub's name to the viewer, the pub's name has become memorable and has generated curiosity.

In this respect "The Pub" is an excellent title for a thriller as it has a simple and unassuming appearance. That contrast is what makes it so successful. Places like pubs, bars or restaurants are generally perceived as safe, ordinary places where there is no danger of betrayal or secrets.

Placing a tense, action filled spy story into an every day environment causes a sense of tension. The viewer is asked to take a closer look at all the things that could possibly go wrong in a location which appears to be completely normal. Therefore, the viewer will feel a greater desire to view the film to uncover the hidden meaning behind the title.

The location of the pub is used to show the tone of a Femme Fatale spy movie. Places where large numbers of people can go like the restaurant, provides the ability for the characters to fit in with the area, and thus makes it easier to perform secret actions without being seen. The calm actions that the spy performs within the same settings as before, allows the spy's self-confidence and control to be shown throughout the story.

As the pub is shown on screen many times during the story, the pub becomes more than just a background. The pub becomes a symbol of the mission itself. The title of the pub (The Pub), allows the viewer to start asking themselves questions about what went down at the pub. What happened at the pub? Why does it matter? What will happen because of the events at the pub.

Beginning the title "Choosing The Pub" generates curiosity for an audience while not giving away too many details from the storyline. By focusing on the details of a setting the audience can be engaged in anticipating the point where it is important enough to learn why this pub has been chosen. The title is simple however the plot and storytelling is complex, therefore creating a memorable title that reinforces the suspenseful tone of the movie.

Struggles in Production- Alejandra A

 Real Challenges During Filming

The first challenge we encountered during the filming of the movie was a cast change. Our primary female lead, Gianni, had a trip to Portugal booked that would take place after her filming date had already been changed. Therefore, in order to avoid additional delays, we were forced to redistribute her role to another member of the group.
In addition to the cast change, we also had many technical issues with the camera. Specifically, we received word from Connie on the morning of filming that the camera's batteries were completely dead. A journalism classmate was contacted for use of the camera's charger. Following receipt of the charger, filming was temporarily paused multiple times to allow the batteries to charge; therefore, the time it took us to complete filming was extended due to these pauses.

Costume and Prop Difficulties

    The wig required for the character Agent Valeria created additional difficulty. Alejandra had to flatten her hair into a small bump so the wig would appear natural and smooth. Because her hair is very long and thick, this process was difficult and required adjustments throughout filming. The wig also tangled easily, so we often had to smooth it with our hands to maintain a sleek appearance that fit the spy character.

    The poison prop also created challenges. The vial used was an empty lip stain container that we cleaned with rubbing alcohol to remove the label. Because the container was originally meant for makeup, we had to remove the applicator in order to pour the liquid. This made it difficult for the liquid to come out properly. On our first attempt, the liquid did not pour as intended, so we had to film the scene again. Some pink residue from the lip stain remained in the container and slightly stained Alejandra’s fingers during filming.

Filming Environment Challenges

    Although there was some congestion at the bar due to filming taking place on a Sunday afternoon, the curiosity from some viewers as they observed filming and asked what we were doing did briefly cause interruptions. Additionally, we had minimal technical issues related to the use of the laptop in the scene. The laptop required periodic login and password entry because it logged off while left open for a prolonged time. Lastly, the internet signal was weak enough to prevent opening an additional web page that would be visually appealing for the scene; therefore, the laptop remained open to the school assignment page.

    The problems we encountered in filming, although challenging, provided our group with the opportunity to learn the value of being prepared, working as a team, and flexible when producing content.

Behind The Scenes- Alejandra A

 

Capturing the Process

Although some of the photos that Lia captured of behind-the-scenes moments during filming show us having fun, as an entire team, we maintained a professional focus and continued to produce quality work. Lia and her collaboration with Jazmine Pozo, Constanza Di Mare, and myself, provided an enjoyable working experience in which each of us could collaborate in a positive and creative way and make the overall production experience less stressful and exciting. The photos that Lia took were not only documentation of the technical aspects of the film's production; they also show how much fun we had making this film.

Costume, Confidence, and Teamwork

It took a lot for me to be confident with my character (Agent Valeria) as I was always in the public eye when filming and I was in some pretty loud costumes. When I would wear my costume out into a normal world, it made me a little nervous but having such an awesome team around me made me feel much more confident. During the shoot, we did have a few funny moments where someone else in our team would try on the wig as a way to prepare, yet we all remained dedicated to shooting each and every scene as well as possible.

Jazmine also played a huge role in preparing us for each shot, mainly because she helped us get the right shots and angles of the close-up shots that were filmed near the end of the scene with the poison prop. Also, Constanza shot the bathroom prep scenes and made sure we had a good frame and continuity for each shot. A large amount of the time we worked together to keep track of whether we were dressed consistently with the previous scenes and whether we needed to make an adjustment to the wig or our costume.

Production Process and Bloopers

Similar to a number of other film projects, we had times when we were forced to redo certain scenes that had bloopers. The repetition of these scenes provided us an opportunity to enhance the overall quality of our opening scene. Additionally, through this process, we were able to fine tune our camera shots and angles, as well as time ourselves and character movement. 

Even though we had some errors on occasion, we all remained focused and worked diligently to produce the desired outcome. In the end, the process of filming contributed to the development of teamwork. It also enhanced our appreciation for the amount of work involved in film production. Through this experience, we became more at ease with acting, being filmed in public and paying close attention to details from beginning to end in each scene.

Film Practice- Alejandra A

 Random Movement Shot Above

Close Up Shot Above

Aerial Eye Level Shot Above

 Medium Shot Eye level Angle Over the Shoulder Above

Over the Shoulder Closeup Eye Level Above

Tracking Medium Shot Eye Level Above

Establishing shot 360 degree pan Above 

High Angle Medium Static Shot Above

Developing the Script- Alejandra A

 

Developing the Characters

The first part of the script is going to focus on creating a clear distinction between two opposing main characters; Valeria, the spy, and Bella, the target. The choice of names was deliberate as well. The name "Agent Valeria" has an air of mystery and strength to it and fits well into the typical femme fatale type spy found in most thrillers. On the other hand, the name "Bella", seems soft and more innocent than "Valeria", and immediately tells us who is the victim/target.
This allowed us to add to the themes of deception and double identities commonly used in spy movies. Valeria, represents control, secrecy and danger; while Bella represents normalcy and vulnerability.

Using the Storyboard to Build the Script

The script was built upon our story board; therefore every action we made visually, was supported by the actions being written into the script. In addition, most of the beginning of this script is movement (not talking). The click of the heels as she walks in establish her confidence and seriousness.

In the mirror scene, we see the spy prepare for her mission. This creates suspense and shows the use of the wig and make-up as a part of her disguise.

In addition to creating a sense of suspense through the visual elements of the script, timing is also very important. The ticking of the watch symbolizes how precise and planned the spy is. Therefore, the slow and deliberate movements throughout the script create a sense of thriller suspense that will keep the audience interested in the smallest details.

Building Suspense Through Structure

The development of the script's structure was designed to build tension. A calm spy walks into a busy bar and sits down close to the target. She has no idea she is in danger as she sits there with her laptop and the audience knows the danger exists. As the spy pours poison into the drink, it is done so quietly and smoothly, showing how professional the agent is. However, this also created conflict for the spy. What if the wrong person drank the poisoned drink? 

The timer at the end emphasized the time pressure and made the audience wonder what would occur next. The ending of the script followed the common thriller convention of raising questions instead of providing answers in the first scene. Overall, the script used minimal dialogue and controlled pacing along with the great contrast of characters to create suspense. The basis of the script coming from the storyboard allowed us to ensure each action contributed to building the mysterious atmosphere of the opening of the film.

Introducing the Cast- Alejandra A.

 

Alejandra Arratia – Writer / Creative Lead

My name is Alejandra Arratia and I've had an interest in the arts since I was young. At age five I started learning how to play the piano. In addition, I've competed in local art contests throughout the country. I'm interested in using the media form (film) as another creative outlet for me. I plan to use the same dedication and creativity that I have shown in the other forms of art to make this a successful experience for myself. Our group worked together to develop a story line for our film, we are calling it RogueHer for now. I took on the responsibility of writing the script and planning out what would happen when. The goal of creating a female spy with all the qualities of a femme fatale, but without objectifying her or perpetuating the male gaze (the tendency to sexualize women), was very important to me. I wanted to take a chance and give a strong intelligent confident woman a purpose.

Constanza Di Mare – Director / Producer

                  

Constanza Di Mare has been one of my closest friends since elementary school and is probably one of the most driven people that i have ever met. Constance was training in gymnastics for nearly her entire life and even competed nationally in cheerleading. Due to her self-discipline and work ethic, she has naturally fit into this project as a leader. Constanza has also worked with cameras while involved in yearbook throughout all four years of high school. Because of her natural abilities as both a technician and a leader, she will serve as director and producer for the project so that filming will run smoothly and efficiently.Jazmine Pozo – Editor

    Another long-time friend, and a close friend since elementary school, is Jazmine Pozo. She will be the editor for our documentary, and has been working with video editing for many years. She was part of the television production crew at her school and has used Adobe Premiere Pro. Jazmine is an experienced video editor, who knows how to create a smooth flow of scenes together. In addition, Jazmine is highly detail-oriented, which assists me by thinking about each scene and the timeline of our shoot. Because she is so organized, and thinks ahead, this has allowed us to organize this project in a way that makes sense.

Gianni Rodriguez – Lead Actress (Spy)

      Gianni Rodriguez is one of my classmates I have come to know this year in AICE Media. AICE Media allowed us to get to know each other as close friends. Gianni has shown herself to be an honest and committed partner for projects. We are excited that she has taken on the character of the spy with enthusiasm. The visual characteristics of being darker, will add to the femme fatale image that we had pictured. Gianni is enthusiastic and confident about bringing the character to life. In doing so, she will assist in communicating the enigmatic, strong presence we want the audience to experience.

Alex Barbosa- Voice Actor

Alex Barbosa very kindly offered himself to be the 'Unkown' voice we needed to speak to Agent Valeria. Are vision for that scene was for a male voice to be on the other side of the phone, preferably a deeper voice and he seemed right for the job! He is also an outside classmate and friend since middle school, he was very kind to participate in our project this way.

Selected Font: Wagnesday Regular

 

    We selected the Wagnesday Regular (from FontSpace) font for our movie title "Rogueher". This will contribute to the overall feel of a spy movie since this is an elegant, very sharp, and controlled typeface. Clean yet dramatic fonts are commonly used in spy movies to give viewers a sense of intrigue and serious-mindedness. The dramatic feel of Wagnesday Regular creates a feel of confidence and calculation on behalf of the female lead, or Femme Fatale, which is consistent with her spy character.

Relation To Spy Film Openings:

    The many title sequences in spy movies generally create a sense of suspense through either the use of a slow fade-in for the title sequence, or a fast cut to the title. Many of the spy movies we have studied as a class (such as the James Bond movies) create a title sequence with a fade-in that feels mysterious and suspenseful; others (like the Mission: Impossible movie) create a title sequence with an instant reveal that feels exciting and energetic.

    We are currently undecided about how the title Rogueher will be presented in our movie. We are also still discussing the color palette. The color palette will depend upon what we ultimately decide to do with regard to the overall production look. It could be dark to fit the thriller atmosphere and keep the spy theme.

Sources:

Arterfak. Wagnesday Font. FontSpace, 2023, https://www.fontspace.com/wagnesday-font-f105414

BeFonts. Wagnesday Font. BeFonts, 2023, https://befonts.com/wagnesday-font.html

DafontFree. Wagnesday Font. DafontFree, 2023, https://www.dafontfree.co/wagnesday-font/

FontSpace. James Bond Style Fonts. FontSpace, https://www.fontspace.com/category/james-bond

Comparing Filming Locations in Pembroke Pines

Purpose of This Research

However, for the purpose of this stage of our project, our group has conducted research on the possible filming locations in Pembroke Pines that will be used for the thriller spy opening scene of our film. Two of the places that our group has talked about the most in relation to the possible filming location for our film are the Shops at Pembroke Gardens and the Pembroke Lakes Mall. Both of these places are accessible to our group and have environments that will be used for the restaurant scene of our film.

Our group wanted to compare these two places and determine the best one for the filming purpose.

Option 1: Pembroke Lakes Mall

The first location would be Pembroke Lakes Mall. This is because this location is indoors. Therefore, it would be a good choice because the weather would not be a challenge in filming. In addition, this would be a good choice because the lighting would be constant during filming.

On the other hand, this location would be associated with a number of challenges. First, this location would be associated with a number of challenges because of the crowd in this location. Malls are usually very crowded, especially during the daytime. This would be a challenge because it would be hard to handle the background noise.

In addition, it would be hard to film at this location because this is a privately owned facility. Therefore, it would be hard to record this film at this location.

Option 2: The Shops at Pembroke Gardens

The second location we looked at was The Shops at Pembroke Gardens. This is an outdoor shopping and restaurant area. The advantages of this location are as follows:

The cinematic look is an advantage in this location. The lighting in this area at night would be very interesting and would provide a good atmosphere for the suspenseful scenes in the movie.

The other advantage is the fact that this is an outdoor location. This would give us more space as we move around when filming the scenes. It would also be easier to take many angles as we do the filming.

The disadvantages associated with this location are as follows: The disadvantage in this location is the fact that we would be forced to use the weather as we do the filming. However, this location would be more advantageous in terms of the visuals.

Our Current Decision

Based on the two locations, our group is leaning towards shooting the scene at The Shops at Pembroke Gardens. This is because we think that the location is visually interesting and has the flexibility to be able to move the camera as desired.

The open space and outdoor environment can also be helpful in creating the cinematic effect that we want for our thriller spy scene.

Next Steps

The next step is to visit the place and assess the level of activity at different times of the day. At the same time, we will start thinking of the shots and the mood created by the light.

This comparison was very instrumental in helping us narrow down our choices and move on with the best location for our style of production.

Work Cited:

City of Pembroke Pines. Shops at Pembroke Gardens. City of Pembroke Pines, www.ppines.com. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

“Pembroke Lakes Mall.” Simon Property Group, www.simon.com/mall/pembroke-lakes-mall. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

“The Shops at Pembroke Gardens.” Brookfield Properties Retail, www.shopsatpembrokegardens.com. Accessed 10 Mar. 2026.

Brown, Blain. Cinematography: Theory and Practice. 3rd ed., Routledge, 2016.

Rabiger, Michael, and Mick Hurbis-Cherrier. Directing: Film Techniques and Aesthetics. 6th ed., Focal Press, 2020.

Bordwell, David, and Kristin Thompson. Film Art: An Introduction. 12th ed., McGraw-Hill Education, 2019.

Group Brainstorming and Scene Development- Alejandra A

Working as a Group

For this stage of the project, my group and I have officially begun brainstorming the scenes for our thriller spy opening film. My group consists of Constanza D, Jazmine Pozo, and myself. We have worked as a team to come up with a combined idea on how the story will be told through the visuals within a short two-minute opening scene.

During the discussion of our group, we came up with the idea of creating suspense through body language rather than the dialogue. This is because thriller spy films are all about creating suspenseful scenes.

Opening Scene Idea

In the first scene, the spy is seen inside the bathroom. The spy stands in front of the mirror. This allows the audience to see the character before the actual start of the story.

The spy stands in front of the mirror and looks at her reflection. She also makes a few changes to her appearance.

Finally, the spy comes out of the bathroom confidently after a brief pause. Then, the spy enters the area of the restaurant. This allows the audience to see the actual setting of the story.

This scene also allows the audience to see the character’s confidence before the actual start of the story.

Developing the Scene Sequence

Once the spy enters the restaurant, she walks around the place and heads towards the bar section where her target is sitting. The target is distracted because he is working on a laptop.

Once she reaches the bar section, she adds poison to her target’s drink while she is sitting at the bar section. This occurs while her target is still distracted by his laptop.

Once she is through with her assignment, she walks out of the bar section as if nothing has happened. She takes off her disguise and heads towards an alley while moving away from the crime scene.

Once she reaches the alley, she waits while checking her watch to confirm whether she has successfully completed her assignment. A sudden sound from within the restaurant indicates that she has successfully completed her assignment.

However, her situation changes when she receives a call confirming her success in her assignment. At this moment, she realizes her target is walking out of the restaurant unharmed, meaning she failed in her assignment.

Why This Scene Structure Works

As a group, we felt that this structure works well because it gradually builds suspense while keeping the story simple and focused. The opening bathroom scene introduces the spy and allows the audience to observe her preparation and composure.

From there, the restaurant scene becomes the main moment of tension. The quiet act of poisoning the drink creates suspense because the audience understands the danger while the target does not.

The final twist adds an unexpected outcome that leaves the audience questioning what will happen next. This type of ending is common in thriller films because it maintains mystery and anticipation.

Visual Planning

While brainstorming the scenes, we also discussed the use of the scenes in the movie in terms of the visuals. Close up shots would be effective in the bathroom scene where the spy would be looking at herself in the mirror.

In the restaurant scene, medium shots and over the shoulder shots would be effective in depicting the scene between the spy and the target.

In the alley scene, the use of wider shots would be effective in depicting the scene where the spy would be waiting alone.