Imagine being swept off your feet by a thrilling tale captured in one seamless motion. “Transmission,” an innovative short film, promises exactly that and more. Entirely crafted using an FPV drone, this visually stunning piece, brought to life by Mikhail Parkhomenko and his talented team, spins a gripping story in a single take. Using the GoPro 11, the film is an artistic gem in the “Impossible Shot” series, delivering a unique viewing experience.
You’re in for a treat with a peek behind the scenes, as the creators offer insights into their dynamic filmmaking process. The film’s atmosphere is enriched by the brilliant contributions of skilled professionals, from the remarkable drone work by Emil Khaziev to the stylish vision brought in by a talented stylist. Prepare for an adventure through the creative minds of those who made “Transmission” an unforgettable journey.
Transmission — a short looped thriller uniquely captured in a single continuous take using an FPV drone. Filmed with a GoPro 11. Part of the “Impossible Shot” series.
Backstage — • Explore behind the scenes of this single-take thriller…
Director: Mikhail Parkhomenko / parh0
Dop / Drone: Emil Khaziev / emil_haziev
Prod @kapitolina_na
Prod 2nd @rasskazovaan
Gaffer @yuriyshmakov
Set Designer @kat.cinemaart
Stylist @uknowiamreal
Colorist @alexandrezolotarev
Actors @black4riday
@max_shalypin @dop.fyodorov
SFX @ilyaxaxaxaxaxa
Music Composers @oleg_saxonov @k_belorussov
Production Music by @thrillmusicprod
Motorcyclist @ahmant
Location @panther_fpv
Organization @rabochee_nazvanie
Special Thanks:
@deadloop_fpv @nnzrov
@volodyanazare @dev1125
@ahmylovik @_leqla @_bodddy
The Concept of ‘Transmission’
Introduction to the Short Film
Imagine a world where you’re in the midst of an action-packed thriller, but instead of hopping from one scene to another, you experience the entire story in a single, continuous take. This is the enchanting concept behind “Transmission,” a short film that has seamlessly captured the thrill of continuous storytelling through the lens of an FPV drone. Directed by Mikhail Parkhomenko, “Transmission” is a looped thriller that draws viewers into its world without a single interruption, all while maintaining a fresh and captivating narrative.
The ‘Impossible Shot’ Series
“Transmission” is a proud member of the “Impossible Shot” series, which seeks to explore the boundaries of what can be achieved with modern filmmaking technology. The series challenges filmmakers to shoot seemingly unachievable scenes and sequences, pushing the limits of creativity and technical prowess. As part of this groundbreaking series, “Transmission” showcases not only the director’s creative vision but also the potential of using technology like FPV drones to tell stories in innovative ways.
FPV Drone: A Unique Perspective
The use of FPV (First Person View) drones gives you a viewing experience that feels both immersive and exhilarating. Unlike traditional filmmaking, where camera movements can be limited by equipment size and setup, FPV drones offer a new level of fluidity and freedom. You’re able to follow characters through intricate paths and tight spaces, creating a sense of engagement that feels intimate and immediate. In “Transmission,” the FPV drone becomes a silent character of its own, charting a course that enhances the suspense and drama of the story.
Behind the Scenes
Director and Creative Vision
Mikhail Parkhomenko, the visionary director behind “Transmission,” brings a fresh and daring approach to storytelling. His ability to weave together complex narratives into a single take is a testament to his creative genius. Parkhomenko’s vision was not only to entertain but to challenge the norms of filmmaking, providing you with a story that unfolds in real-time, delivering thrills and surprises without the distraction of cuts.
Cinematography with Emil Khaziev
Working closely with Parkhomenko is Emil Khaziev, the director of photography and drone operator for “Transmission.” Khaziev’s expertise with FPV drones is evident in the seamless transitions and dynamic shots that define the film. His ability to anticipate movement and capture moments at the right angle ensures that you, as a viewer, are always at the heart of the action, fully immersed in the story.
Production Team and Key Roles
Behind every successful film is a dedicated production team, and “Transmission” is no exception. With Kapitolina Na as the producer and Yuriy Shmakov as the gaffer, each team member plays a pivotal role in bringing the director’s vision to life. From set designers like Kat Cinemaart to stylists ensuring every detail is on point, every person’s contribution adds to the narrative’s depth, crafting a compact yet captivating experience.
Technical Aspects
Choosing the GoPro 11 for Filming
In “Transmission,” the choice of camera plays a critical role in the film’s aesthetics and execution. By opting for the GoPro 11, the filmmakers capitalize on the camera’s high-resolution capabilities and lightweight design, making it ideal for FPV drones. This selection allows the film to maintain crisp visuals and consistent quality throughout the one-take shot, offering you a seamless viewing experience.
Challenges of One-Take Shooting
Filming a one-take story is a formidable challenge requiring precision and meticulous planning. The team behind “Transmission” needed to ensure that every element—from timing to actor performance—was faultless, as there were no opportunities for cuts or edits. This approach demands synchronization across all departments, enhancing your immersion as the story plays out without interruption.
Innovative Uses of FPV Drones
FPV drones bring an innovative edge to the filming of “Transmission,” allowing for intricate and creative shots that would be impossible with traditional camera setups. The drone’s agility enables you to experience the thrill of flight, weaving through environments and following characters in ways that feel both fluid and natural. These techniques not only captivate you but push the boundaries of how stories are visually told.
Artistic Elements
Set Design and On-Location Shooting
Kat Cinemaart, the set designer, creates environments that are as much a character in “Transmission” as the actors themselves. The choice of locations and set design plays a subtle yet significant role in setting the mood and tone of the story. Each setting is carefully crafted to guide your eyes and emotions, enhancing the narrative’s tension and drama.
Costume and Styling Choices
Costuming in “Transmission” is subtly powerful, reinforcing characters’ identities and the film’s tone. The stylists ensured that each piece not only fit the aesthetic but also complemented the continuous nature of the shoot. These choices enhance the authenticity of the characters, inviting you into a world that feels both real and engaging.
Lighting and Color Grading
Lighting is a critical aspect of any film, but in “Transmission,” it is used with masterful intention to drive the mood and emotion scene-by-scene. The use of natural and artificial lighting, coupled with expert color grading by Alexandre Zolotarev, ensures that what you see on screen is vivid and immersive. Each frame is crafted to evoke emotion, guiding you through the story’s highs and lows.
Sound and Music
Role of Sound Design in Storytelling
Sound design in “Transmission” serves as an unseen narrative guide, enhancing the ambiance and intensifying the thriller elements. The precision in sound helps anchor you in the continuous take, ensuring every footstep, drone whirr, and environmental sound contributes to the immersive experience.
Music Composition and Integration
Music composition, undertaken by Oleg Saxonov and K. Belorussov, is integral to driving the film’s narrative pace and emotional tone. The music weaves seamlessly with the visual elements, building tension and releasing it in calculated measures, thus enhancing your engagement with the film.
Production Music by Thrill Music Prod
Thrill Music Prod provides the soundtrack that underpins the storytelling of “Transmission.” The production music is carefully curated to complement the film’s themes, ensuring that as you progress through the narrative, the music bolsters the mood and provides a cohesive sonic backdrop.
Acting and Performance
Key Actors and Their Roles
In “Transmission,” the actors play critical roles in sustaining the energy and emotion throughout the single-take film. Performers like @black4riday, @max_shalypin, and @dop.fyodorov deliver compelling performances, capturing your attention and adding layers of depth to the story’s unfolding.
Dynamics of Performing for a Drone Camera
Performing for an FPV drone presents a unique challenge for actors, as they must adjust to the constantly moving camera and the absence of traditional filmmaking markers. Their performances are tailored to maintain continuity and connection with you, despite the dynamic shooting environment.
Adding Depth to the Characters
The actors infuse depth into their characters through nuanced performances, conveying emotions and intentions without the reliance on close-ups or edits. This complexity ensures that you remain invested in their journey and empathize with their challenges and triumphs.
Visual Effects and Editing
Incorporating SFX Effectively
Special effects in “Transmission,” orchestrated by Ilyaxaxaxaxaxa, are used sparingly yet effectively to heighten the film’s dramatic aspects. The decision to integrate effects practically within the continuous shot reinforces the film’s realism and your engagement with the plot.
Editing Techniques for a Single Take
Editing a single-take film involves enhancing the natural flow of the story while ensuring that the pacing matches the narrative tension you experience. The editor’s task is to polish this unbroken visual to maintain your attention and elevate the storytelling.
The Impact on Viewer Engagement
The one-take format of “Transmission” profoundly impacts your engagement level. The continuity enhances immersion, allowing you to feel present within the story and emotionally connected to each moment as it unfolds.
Promotions and Release
Marketing Strategies for Short Films
Marketing “Transmission” involves innovative strategies to highlight its unique storytelling approach. By showcasing the film’s technical achievements and creative vision, the marketing efforts aim to intrigue and captivate prospective viewers.
Social Media and Public Engagement
Social media platforms play a pivotal role in engaging public interest and encouraging discussions about the film. Through behind-the-scenes content, teasers, and interactions with the production team, you are drawn into the film’s world even before watching it.
Screenings and Online Distributions
The release strategy for “Transmission” encompasses a blend of exclusive screenings and online distributions, ensuring accessibility and building anticipation among diverse audiences. This method allows for a wider reach, giving you multiple avenues to experience the film.
Audience Reception
Feedback and Reviews
“Transmission” has garnered feedback and reviews that celebrate its innovative use of technology and creative storytelling. Audiences are captivated by its immersive quality and the seamless execution of a continuous shoot, frequently expressing admiration for the film’s daring approach.
Impact on the FPV Drone Community
The film has left a significant mark on the FPV drone community, inspiring filmmakers and hobbyists alike to explore new possibilities within the medium. It highlights the versatility and potential of FPV drones in cinema, encouraging you to envision new storytelling formats.
Influence on Future Filmmakers
The techniques used in “Transmission” serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring filmmakers, showcasing the potential of blending creativity with technology. Its success encourages you, as a future filmmaker, to push boundaries and experiment with how stories are visually and narratively presented.
Conclusion
Summarizing the Achievements
“Transmission” stands as a milestone in short film production, merging innovative technology with creative storytelling to deliver a unique cinematic experience. Its success lies in its ability to captively engage audiences through a continuous narrative, achieved through meticulous planning and execution.
The Future of FPV Drone Filmmaking
As a pioneering piece, “Transmission” opens the door to a future where FPV drones become a mainstream tool for filmmakers. The film’s success encourages you to consider how this technology can elevate storytelling, offering new perspectives and depths.
Implications for Creative Storytelling
The implications of “Transmission” for creative storytelling are vast, highlighting the potential for technology to redefine how narratives are crafted and experienced. This approach challenges you to rethink storytelling conventions and embrace novel concepts that captivate and engage.