Understanding the Filming Process of a School Shooting Scene in Hollywood
Shooting a Hollywood movie is a massive operation that resembles a military operation. It involves hundreds of crew members, massive lights, reflector screens the size of small houses, camera tracks, catering trucks, and equivalent trucks. The logistics alone for a location shoot are extensive, requiring massive generators that can power the lights, often housed in fully-sized trucks with trailers. Typically, one to three such trucks are needed just to power the lights, and parking them alone often takes up half a street.
Sealing Off the Area
When a scene is shot, the entire street or building is sealed off and closed down. Not only must the main street be secured, but adjoining streets as well to park the requisite trucks. The area is guarded by a combination of police and P.A. (parking assistants) from the film company. If the scene is on a street, all the shops on the street will be closed, and their shop signs and window exhibitions will be replaced by new ones as per the Art Director's design.
Using Exteriors and Studios
In most cases, film crews use exteriors for location shoots. For example, if a sequence takes place at a school, the director will likely only use the exterior of the school in the actual movie. Once the action moves inside, they switch to a studio environment, where lights and sounds are more easily controlled. A hallway in a real high school is often too narrow for a Hollywood movie, so the sequence is shot at the studio. A studio set offers the advantage of being able to remove walls to accommodate the camera and its crew, including camera crane and dolly track operators.
Inside the Studio
A Hollywood camera on tracks is operated by no less than five people: the Director of Cinematography, Camera Assistant, Camera Operator, Focus Puller, and Dolly Grip. The camera crew alone is a complex and well-oiled machine, highlighting the precision required in filming school shooting scenes.
Permission to Bring Weapons onto Campus
Bringing weapons onto a campus to shoot a school shooting scene, such as that from the Columbine High School massacre, requires extensive permission and preparation. Filmmakers must negotiate with local authorities, school administrators, and community members to ensure that the scene is filmed responsibly. Permission is typically obtained through legal channels and requires detailed planning to ensure the safety of everyone involved. Fake weapons are usually used, and the scene is carefully choreographed to minimize risk.
The Pre-Shoot Process
Before the shoot, extensive planning is done to ensure every aspect of the scene is meticulously controlled. Filmmakers must secure permits, coordinate with police and security teams, and plan for the placement of the necessary equipment. The scene is often blocked off for days to allow for filming, and the entire area is protected to prevent any disruptions or accidents.
Beyond the logistical challenges, portraying sensitive topics like school shootings requires a responsible approach. Filmmakers work closely with mental health professionals and educators to ensure that the scene is both effective and respectful to those affected by such tragedies.
In conclusion, shooting a movie that includes a school shooting scene is a complex process that involves careful planning, extensive permits, and responsible portrayal. Filmmakers must navigate a series of challenges to create a scene that is both accurate and respectful to the community.