Bronze

Kendo

Deerfield

Feature Story

Entry Description

Elias Wagman connects to ancient Japanese culture by participating in Kendo- the traditional martial art of swordsmanship from the time of the samurai.

Judge 1

Positives: interesting camera shots. excellent video quality

Improvements: need to explain more about what kendo is, not just the process of participating in it. left me confused.

Judge 2

Positives: Visually interesting piece about a little known martial art form. The voice-over story telling worked well as a varied visual array portrayed the unique qualities of this ancient tradition. Beginning and ending provided framing for the piece.

Improvements: Some of the camera work had some of the action out of frame which, although artistic, might have been less jarring if the edit had come a little earlier. Perhaps more information about this martial art form -- participants nationwide and locally and in Japan, trends in samarai combat forms, etc. would give the piece more depth.

Judge 3

Positives: Opening sequence was well crafted. The shot from inside the locker was an excellent addition. Great use of a music track and natural sound throughout. The interview was framed well and had an interesting background.

Improvements: Mixing up focal lengths during the interview would have been an improvement. Change up the shot and mix in some close ups.