The Chicago Marist Brothers - ID# 114

Marist

Documentary

Entry Description

This documentary is all about the Marist Brothers at Marist High School Chicago. The brothers are interviewed and asked the same questions, but all have different answers.

Recent Teacher Comments

• 3/27 10:03 pm - First just a great story, two people who have given so much to that institution with the insight of why it is so important to them. I would have re-thought how you framed some of the interviews, the one brother behind the news desk just seemed out of place. Consider having them walk through Marist and let them tell their story while experiencing the building that has meant so much to them. Very mature documentary and a fascinating look at two people who clearly love your school.
• 3/6 10:31 pm - Interesting hearing from so many different brothers to help share the story, especially the history, but it would have helped adding the broll over the actual interviews, so we don't have to just watch them, but we can see what they are describing. The end was a good idea, but ended awkwardly.

Judge 1

Positives: Thanks for introducing us to these dedicated religious individuals; it was a pleasure getting to know their life’s work and passion. It made me want to research this organization more... so nice job getting your viewers interested in the topic.

Improvements: In general, I think the interview subjects’ responses are interesting, but overall, I think this needs some re-work in editing. Some of this piece needs trimming down, and some needs overall re-ordering so that you establish a more clear narrative first, and then flesh it out better with the appropriate details. It’d be great if you could work in some more interesting b-roll as well (perhaps these men interacting with one another or with members of the Marist community…) so it’s not just primarily talking heads. Additionally, your interviews need some re-work in terms of shot composition (most are placed right in the middle of the frame, when they should be positioned at frame left or right — research the “rule of thirds” for interviews). Some also have audio issues (some subjects are clearly miked; some are not.) The audio mix needs some work (the interview audio often competes too much with the music. Also, I think the music isn’t quite the right choice… especially when it ramps up significantly at 1:06.

Judge 2

Positives: The content was good and had a positive message. The use of students at the end was a nice touch.

Improvements: Audio levels: Consider placing the mic closer... Music was not mixed low enough. I also question the choice of music. The Broll should have been smoother and more intentional. Missed an opportunity to include historical images and photos. When shooting into a window or light source, never use auto iris on the camera.

Judge 3

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Judge 4

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