An excerpt by Josh Kelly
Screen media primarily served two functions in our production. The first function was to set the stage for the drama that will unfold throughout the show.
Set within Beth’s computer in the opening scene, Eric will see the notification for her email regarding the job offer and responds as if he were her. This first screen media moment demonstrates the vulnerability of our computer spaces, and how people can take advantage of that intimacy. In the final scene we will include a shot of a quickly scrolling email inbox so we can set the stage for the panic and anxiety flowing through Beth as she discovers the betrayal.
The second function of screen media will be to present two Facecast calls that happen in the third and fifth scenes.
The third scene is of Eric and his sister Caroline speaking over Facecast. He is working late, while she is calling from an outdoor bar. The contrast between the two settings reinforces the natures of the two characters; Caroline is free spirited and fun, while Eric is more rigid. Caroline will be Facecasting from her phone, while Eric is taking the call on his laptop. This can add to the notion of mobility in Caroline’s lifestyle, contrasted by Eric’s grounded, unmoving position. Caroline’s eyes often look away from Eric in the conversation, which leaves viewers to assume she is checking out her surroundings at the bar and losing focus from the conversation. Despite this, she made the effort to call, which can suggest that she is trying to reach out to her sibling but isn’t sure how.
The fifth scene is of Beth and her mom Joanne speaking on Facecast. Beth takes her call in the kitchen, while her mom is at her home office procrastinating a deadline. This scene allows Beth’s frustration from the recent argument with Eric to retreat, as her mom calms her and offers advice. A possible reading of the scene could be that Beth is conversing with someone she is very close to and can receive wisdom and comfort in weighing the choices she feels compelled to make.
By smoothly transitioning between scenes shot in physical spaces and digital spaces, we hope to demonstrate the fluidity with which people use these technologies in their lives.
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