“Post Modern Regressive Film Making”

One of the main challenges of a production like this, besides extremely limited funds, was accomplishing the look of old black and white film without actually using film. Ironically G-Squad’s lack of technology look and feel was achieved by using some modern technology. The whole production was shot on mini DV using a combination of 2 cameras a Cannon XL1 and a GL1 thanks to our good pal Uncle Kev. (Kevin McCarthy The Voice of Galactic Squad)

The cameras both featured a progressive setting instead of interlaced which looks much more like film. The lack of lighting actually helped since many of the scenes are very hard lit and have a grainy feel. Very basic lighting was used in strange ways so that it always had an “odd” look to it.

The idea was that these guys were serious and they either didn’t know what they were doing or were always strapped for time and money. If the crew got in a pinch it was always a battle to fight the professional instinct and just go with it. The terms “What Would Ed Do?” and “Hey that’s Ok… It’s Galactic Squad” quickly became the norm on set.

Having a limited source of quality takes to choose from actually forced the editor to just deal with it and set aside some of the natural tendencies. At least there wasn’t too much stuff to sort through, and I speak of usable footage. One of the great things about shooting on DV is that it’s inexpensive and you can keep the cameras rolling. One of the bad things about shooting on DV is that it’s inexpensive and you can keep the cameras rolling.

The entertainment value of B-roll footage and backstage camera material started rivaling the main footage so there is a nice collection of bloopers and behind the scenes footage. In the words of President Galaxia, thank Aldar for DVD!