Here's a little insight into how we filmed the music video to my cyberpunk stomper Netrunner, fighting evil cyborg drones in an old abandoned factory.
In 2086 high tech and low life dominates the city, and artificial intelligence reigns supreme within the confines of cyberspace. Cyborgs drones are seamlessly integrate into everyday life, blurring the lines between humanity and machine. Within the digital frontier, only a select few possess the expertise to navigate through cyberspace, breach systems, and manipulate data. These skilled individuals are known as Netrunners.
Living in Daytona, Florida, Syst3m Glitch can't always be present at a video shoot, but we always find ways to include him in an intriguing way.
Filming in an abandoned factory presents a unique and often captivating opportunity for filmmakers. The juxtaposition of decaying structures with the creativity of modern storytelling can create a visually stunning backdrop. These locations often possess an atmosphere steeped in history, offering a narrative depth that can enrich a film’s plot. The textures and shadows found in such environments add layers of intrigue and complexity to the visuals.
Moreover, the large, open spaces typically found in factories allow for versatile shot compositions and movement. However, filmmakers must approach these sites with caution, as safety hazards like unstable walls and broken glass are common. Securing necessary permits and ensuring a thorough risk assessment is crucial before embarking on a shoot. Filming in an abandoned space also raises questions about legal ownership and preservation, urging filmmakers to respect the integrity of these locations.
Collaboration with local authorities and community groups can lead to better conservation efforts while providing filmmakers with the freedom to explore. Ultimately, abandoned factories hold a treasure trove of inspiration, allowing filmmakers to create compelling stories through a lens of decay and nostalgia.
To the common viewer it's nothing special and can be seen in any series or movies, but for us handling prop guns on set was a challenge. First of all, and I can't stress this enough, all guns we used were toy guns with moving slides, painted to look real. There is absolutely no justification to use real firearms on set, even on multi-million dollar Hollywood productions. All smoke and muzzle flashes were added in post production! We briefly considered using light bulbs or led's but that looked even more fake in camera.
For those interested in weapons lore: We opted for lookalikes of Heckler & Kochs VP9, which was used in movies like Tomb Raider and Spectre, so they should be somewhat familiar to the audience. We also found a foam-dart shooting toy Benelli M4 with ejectable shells which we repainted.
