Our CAS project, Bald Money, was to create an independent mid-length film, going through the entire process from brainstorming ideas to scriptwriting, acting, filming, and editing. This presented a considerable challenge, as it was beyond anything any of us had done in this area before. We chose a film project because we wanted to do something different from what the rest of the IB Diploma Program requires, while continuing to explore new skills and experiences.
Writing was a difficult process for all of us, as we had to develop a complete narrative and concept. However, we were able to overcome this hurdle by writing in fragments—communicating ideas in as pure a form as possible—which allowed us to develop our ideas quickly and without much fatigue. Each sentence served as a complete description of a single scene, and before we knew it, we were ready to begin filming. This process was valuable because it allowed us to discover more efficient and effective ways to express and develop ideas.
Through filming, we also discovered the importance of planning, especially given how long it took to set up each scene. Through consistent, thorough preparation before each scheduled filming day, we gathered the props and costumes needed for production. This was essential to the flow of filming, as our time was limited by our arrangements with the property owner.
Collaboration was also incredibly important, both during filming and while coordinating our cast. Because some members of the cast had little experience with acting or filmmaking, communicating each person's comfort level and strengths helped improve the flow and efficiency of production. Each member’s script and actions could be adjusted based on their feedback and opinions, and this flexibility not only improved the process but also enhanced the film as a whole.
Our initial direction for the project was to create a film that reflected the uncertainty and absurdity of the times we live in, and we drew inspiration from texts such as The Malady of Death and Naked Lunch as we developed the script and story. Through writing, performing, and filming scenes based on unusual current events, modern fears, and contemporary conflicts, I believe we were able to find humor in these subjects and engage with them directly.