"Whispers in the Asylum" was my final project for both my cinematography and sound design class, representing a convergence of my skills and passion for storytelling. Set within the ominous confines of the Deermeadow Home for the Clinically Insane, the film follows five intrepid teenagers as they confront the malevolent spirits that haunt its halls.
Using a Canon C-100 as my primary camera and a Canon 90D as a secondary, alongside a minimal crew, we delved into the heart of the asylum's haunting atmosphere. However, our efforts faced a significant challenge during filming, particularly with on-set audio in the basement scene due to a noisy air conditioner. Despite this setback, I embraced the opportunity for creative problem-solving.
To salvage the audio, I opted for a dual approach. Firstly, I utilized what little of the boom audio was usable, and worked in audition to manually reduce the noise. Secondly, recognizing the limitations of on-set recordings, I re-recorded almost all dialogue and sound effects separately in a controlled environment post-production. This meticulous process ensured that every word and sound conveyed the intended atmosphere and emotion, overcoming the initial technical hurdle.
As the writer and director of "Whispers in the Asylum," I meticulously crafted the screenplay to guide audiences through a harrowing descent into the unknown. In post-production, Adobe Premiere Pro and Adobe Audition became my tools of choice for editing and refining the piece. Additionally, I ventured into the realm of visual effects for the first time using Adobe After Effects, where I experimented with creating the chilling demonic eye effect seen at the film's climax. Though unfamiliar territory, I poured my creativity and determination into this new skill, ultimately achieving a result that I was pleased with.
"Whispers in the Asylum" stands not only as a testament to my technical proficiency but also as a testament to my growth as a storyteller and filmmaker. With its haunting atmosphere and immersive narrative, the film invites audiences to confront their deepest fears and embrace the darkness lurking within the asylum's forsaken halls.
Many thanks to Martine Remi, Ben Roynolds, Caroline Lynch, Jason Boghosian, Jess Tusa, Ian Rothauser, Sio Guadalupe-Hill