The Work Placement
My work placement consisted of 3 days work with the video production company, Mad Pig Films. On the first day, I met some of the company's key personnel and attended a screening of the draft version of the company's feature film project Devil May Know (as the film was still in it's post-production phase). The second day of my experience involved observing and assisting the recording of the ambient soundtrack for the film, where I travelled around London with the film's director. The final day consisted of acquiring location consent for filming for certain scenes in the film, some of which were needing to be reshot.
Throughout my time, I had many conversations with the company's director and one of the project's editors. I found the whole experience really insightful as it gave me an understanding of how feature films are produced and how to overcome the issues faced when making one. I also gained a lot of information about the company in general such as how it became successful production company, the equipment and softwares they use and their future projects.
Preparations for Placement:
Here are some of the preparations and arrangements I made prior attending the first day of my work placement:
- Clothes -
I found out from Dante when I first got in contact with the company what the dress code for the company is, and then planned my outfits that I would need to bring back with me to London for each day of the experience. These were smart/casual items of clothing.
- Travel -
As the company was based in London, I organised with the company's director, Colin, to carry out a majority of my work experience hours over the Easter break. This would make it a lot easier and cheaper for me to commute to work since I would be living at home with my parents in South West London during the work experience, rather than commuting from Brighton each day. I booked my train down from Brighton to London as soon as the work placement dates were confirmed. I will use public transport to commute from work to home, using my Oyster card to pay for buses and tubes.
- Things to take -
A list of things I will need with me during the experience:
wallet, phone, comfortable shoes, pen and paper, photo ID
- Questions -
I thought of a handful of questions I could ask people who I get to observed and work with during my work experience; What are your working hours, are they flexible? How much has the company developed and innovated since it began? Are there any other projects you're working on at the moment? How did you get a job at Mad Pig Films?
Tuesday, 3 May 2016
Saturday, 16 April 2016
Who are 'Mad Pigs Films'? [Employer Research]
Company Logo |
Who Are 'MAD PIG FILMS'?
'MAD PIG FILMS is a media production company, originated and based in South West London. The company was founded in 2000 by the company founding father, Dante Motagnani, and has been the prestigious platform for the development of several film and documentary projects ever since.'
They offer a range of different video services and are able to accommodate for most projects dependent on the clients individual requirements.
Also, they work hard in creating "outstanding and professional websites and graphics for their clients...developing a wide variety of different web designs and logos to select from as well as developing customised websites and graphics to suit individual requirements."
Also, they work hard in creating "outstanding and professional websites and graphics for their clients...developing a wide variety of different web designs and logos to select from as well as developing customised websites and graphics to suit individual requirements."
Photography is service the company further have to offer. Their workers have "gained many year worth of both study and professional experience and can provide for just about any occasion From fashion to music photography."
Another service which Mad Pigs Films provide is scriptwriting and development, offering "innovative script ideas or assistance in transfer ideas into a script format." With a team always ready to take on new ideas whilst meeting new clients they are happy to assist in any stage of production.
Post-production and editorial services is the final service the company can for. "Our state of the art software and hardworking, talented staff, ensure that we are able to deliver a wide range of editorial services for short film edits and video edits.
Post-production and editorial services is the final service the company can for. "Our state of the art software and hardworking, talented staff, ensure that we are able to deliver a wide range of editorial services for short film edits and video edits.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Team
Dante Motagnani - Founding Father of Mad Pig Films- Dante was born in London in 1961 to an Italian father and an Anglo-Lithuanian mother.
- At 16 he started martial arts with Aikido, boxing, Judo and Brasilian Jiu-Jitsu.
- Dante later left school at 17 and joined the family business in the hospitality industry.
- In 1983 he married his wife Amanda and now has 4 children and 3 grandchildren.
- In 1995 Dante began acting classes with Jack Waltzer.
- In 2000, Dante founded MAD PIG FILMS LTD, and in 2002, shot his first short film called 'The Little Red Dot' (Out Of The Red).
- In 2006, Dante directed a documentary in Kenya 'Maasai 10th Lost Tribe of Israel' which received high acclaim and recognition at film festivals and award ceremonies.
___________________________________________________________
Alex Montagnani - CEO
Alex Montagnani is a well established, professional MMA (Mixed Martial Arts) fighter, actor, and aspiring activist and ambassador for humanitarian aid with ICROSS International. Alex writes and produces various genres of contemporary and experimental music, ranging from Hip-Hop to Liquid Drum and Bass.
Having developed an eye for film and cinematography, Alex invested greatly into MAD PIG FILMS and has began to take over from his father Dante to take the company to new heights, with many upcoming projects in the pipeline both written and directed by yours truly.
Aside from his professional ventures, Montagnani is a dedicated father and is very family orientated. He is recognised amongst professionals and friends/family as a valued member of his sport and community, with his efforts set to inspire the next generation to come.
___________________________________________________________
Colin Ralph - The Director
Colin Ralph has been involved in youth work and mentoring for over 24 years working with young people in schools, colleges, PRUS (Pupil Referal Units) and YOTSs (Youth Offending Teams).

He first discovered his passion for writing in his early 20's as he would write down ideas, names of people and their background stories. At the time he wasn't sure where some of these ideas came from or what they were for, but he felt compelled to write them down. He later rediscovered his stories and developed them into scripts worthy of being developed into on screen productions. He has received high acclaim for his contribution to his community and his most recent creation 'Devil You Know'.
___________________________________________________________
Aisha Lakhdari-Thompson - The COO

Aisha Lakhdari-Thompson is an aspiring journalist, photographer, cinematographer and web/graphic designer. She also dabbles in acting and music.
Since graduating with qualifications in Broadcasting and Digital Communications at The BRIT School, she has developed skills and recognition for videography, photography and editorial work with various clients ranging from online boutiques to test shoots for well known brands such as ASOS and Sleek Makeup. As a young mother, she prides herself as an example to other young women who struggle to stay motivated. Working alongside the MAD PIG FILMS family, Aisha is keen and ready to dive into new and amazing projects, generating great interest and changing attitudes on a global scale.
Bibliography
Mad Pig Films Limited (2016) Mad Pig Films, Available at: http://www.madpigfilms.com/ (Accessed: 25th February 2016). Company Website
Alex Montagnani - CEO
Having developed an eye for film and cinematography, Alex invested greatly into MAD PIG FILMS and has began to take over from his father Dante to take the company to new heights, with many upcoming projects in the pipeline both written and directed by yours truly.
Aside from his professional ventures, Montagnani is a dedicated father and is very family orientated. He is recognised amongst professionals and friends/family as a valued member of his sport and community, with his efforts set to inspire the next generation to come.
___________________________________________________________
Colin Ralph - The Director
Colin Ralph has been involved in youth work and mentoring for over 24 years working with young people in schools, colleges, PRUS (Pupil Referal Units) and YOTSs (Youth Offending Teams).
He first discovered his passion for writing in his early 20's as he would write down ideas, names of people and their background stories. At the time he wasn't sure where some of these ideas came from or what they were for, but he felt compelled to write them down. He later rediscovered his stories and developed them into scripts worthy of being developed into on screen productions. He has received high acclaim for his contribution to his community and his most recent creation 'Devil You Know'.
___________________________________________________________
Aisha Lakhdari-Thompson - The COO
Aisha Lakhdari-Thompson is an aspiring journalist, photographer, cinematographer and web/graphic designer. She also dabbles in acting and music.
Since graduating with qualifications in Broadcasting and Digital Communications at The BRIT School, she has developed skills and recognition for videography, photography and editorial work with various clients ranging from online boutiques to test shoots for well known brands such as ASOS and Sleek Makeup. As a young mother, she prides herself as an example to other young women who struggle to stay motivated. Working alongside the MAD PIG FILMS family, Aisha is keen and ready to dive into new and amazing projects, generating great interest and changing attitudes on a global scale.
Bibliography
Mad Pig Films Limited (2016) Mad Pig Films, Available at: http://www.madpigfilms.com/ (Accessed: 25th February 2016). Company Website
Tuesday, 29 March 2016
Challenge 6: Social Media
Provide evidence of an engagement with an appropriate social media platform. Produce a 250 word critique of the appropriateness, the strengths and the weaknesses of the chosen platform in relation to your professional development.
Challenge 4: Attending Events
Challenge 4: Attending EventsAttend at least two events organised by CEC, write a short reflective summary of
knowledge acquired from each.
Event 1: Make It Happen - Careers in Media & Communications - 22/02/16
Stephen Cowburn- You don't need to do a specific course credential to work in the media, however you should research specific jobs in your area of interest and apply yourself to them. Know the position you want and make sure it's something you want to be a part of.
- Make a website which shows your skills. A portfolio of all your practical work.
- Have a firm stance of the direction you want to take for your career. Exaggerate the truth, you can always change your mind later down the line.
Book Recommendation - Getting to Yes: Negotiation and Agreement without giving in
Monica Manoras
- Use LinkedIn: Social Media Platform [Challenge Six] follow industries of interest.
Neil Richardson
- BNDA --> Look up this agency - Apprenticeship like schemes available for graduates.
- Immerse yourself in the best (Advertising - Cannes Lions)
Keme Nzerem
- Wing it! Take the most out of every opportunity. You never know how of an impact it may have on you and your career path. Make the best of those moments
Challenge 3: My Careers Research
Download and complete the form, researching a specific role, identifying skills and qualities and requirements for the role.
Challenge 2: My Career Interests
Download and complete the form, identifying your skills, values, strengths and weaknesses
Challenge 1: Introduction to Sussex Plus Workshop
This is the first lecture – write a short reflective summary of knowledge acquired
from this lecture.
Wednesday, 3 February 2016
Week One [Lecture Notes]
Professional Practice
20 hours contact time
Building up a portfolio/CV that's more focussed on your career path
Prepare for Interview Exercise for NEXT WEEK
Week 3 - Online representation
Booking Tutorials with tutors between weeks 3-10
www.sussex.ac.uk/careers - Book through the HUB to see a careers advisor
Graduate vacancies for big companies have decreased within the industry. Small companies have increased.
Skills Employers Want:
- Excellent communication
- Practical approach and specific technical skills
- Ability to get on with people for long periods of time
- Creative, originality and innovation
- Good organisational skills
Follow companies on twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, google alerts
Large companies - BBC, Virgin Media, Bauer Media
Smaller companies will want a CV and covering letter
Take a look at: Wired Sussex + Sussex Innovation Centre
Monday 22nd Feb - Medical School - 6 to 8pm
Look at Adam Parker's LinkedIn page
STAR - How to answers employers questions in interviews
Situation --> Task --> Action --> Results
___________________________________________________________________
Assessment 1: Portfolio [30%]
Assessment 2: Personal Journal + Reflexive Statement [70%]
For Next Week,
-Turn up appropriately ready for an interview.
-Bring along a draft CV
-Look at interview exercise resources, pick a job and think about what questions they may ask.
- Fill out university application form.
20 hours contact time
Building up a portfolio/CV that's more focussed on your career path
Prepare for Interview Exercise for NEXT WEEK
Week 3 - Online representation
Booking Tutorials with tutors between weeks 3-10
www.sussex.ac.uk/careers - Book through the HUB to see a careers advisor
Graduate vacancies for big companies have decreased within the industry. Small companies have increased.
Skills Employers Want:
- Excellent communication
- Practical approach and specific technical skills
- Ability to get on with people for long periods of time
- Creative, originality and innovation
- Good organisational skills
Follow companies on twitter, Facebook, LinkedIn, google alerts
Large companies - BBC, Virgin Media, Bauer Media
Smaller companies will want a CV and covering letter
Take a look at: Wired Sussex + Sussex Innovation Centre
Monday 22nd Feb - Medical School - 6 to 8pm
Look at Adam Parker's LinkedIn page
STAR - How to answers employers questions in interviews
Situation --> Task --> Action --> Results
___________________________________________________________________
Assessment 1: Portfolio [30%]
Requirements:
Your portfolio is a record of the documents created from the ʻchallengesʼ section of the Professional Practice Study Direct site.
Where applicable download and fill out the documents, compile printed copies in a folder for MFM submission. Some challenges require you to create your own documents, the details are highlighted below.
When you have submitted a complete portfolio we will forward your details to Careers and Employability Centre (CEC), they will then be in a position to send you a Sussex Plus Employability Award Certificate.
Challenge 1: Introduction to Sussex Plus workshop
This is the first lecture – write a short reflective summary of knowledge acquired from this lecture.
Challenge 2: My Career Interests
Download and complete the form, identifying your skills, values, strengths and weaknesses
Challenge 3: My Careers Research
Download and complete the form, researching a specific role, identifying skills and qualities and requirements for the role.
Challenge 4: Attending Events - Book Two Events and Attend by WEEK 7
Attend at least two events organised by CEC, write a short reflective summary of knowledge acquired from each.
Challenge 5: CV
Produce a current skills based CV
Challenge 6: Social media
Provide evidence of an engagement with an appropriate social media platform. Produce a 250 word critique of the appropriateness, the strengths and the weaknesses of the chosen platform in relation to your professional development.
Challenge 7: Sussex Plus completion form
Download and complete the form.
ALL CHALLENGES ARE TO BE PRINTED AND ORGANIZED IN A FOLDER FOR MFM SUBMISSION, AND SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE. YOU NEED TO MAKE TWO PRINTED COPIES.
Your portfolio is a record of the documents created from the ʻchallengesʼ section of the Professional Practice Study Direct site.
Where applicable download and fill out the documents, compile printed copies in a folder for MFM submission. Some challenges require you to create your own documents, the details are highlighted below.
When you have submitted a complete portfolio we will forward your details to Careers and Employability Centre (CEC), they will then be in a position to send you a Sussex Plus Employability Award Certificate.
Challenge 1: Introduction to Sussex Plus workshop
This is the first lecture – write a short reflective summary of knowledge acquired from this lecture.
Challenge 2: My Career Interests
Download and complete the form, identifying your skills, values, strengths and weaknesses
Challenge 3: My Careers Research
Download and complete the form, researching a specific role, identifying skills and qualities and requirements for the role.
Challenge 4: Attending Events - Book Two Events and Attend by WEEK 7
Attend at least two events organised by CEC, write a short reflective summary of knowledge acquired from each.
Challenge 5: CV
Produce a current skills based CV
Challenge 6: Social media
Provide evidence of an engagement with an appropriate social media platform. Produce a 250 word critique of the appropriateness, the strengths and the weaknesses of the chosen platform in relation to your professional development.
Challenge 7: Sussex Plus completion form
Download and complete the form.
ALL CHALLENGES ARE TO BE PRINTED AND ORGANIZED IN A FOLDER FOR MFM SUBMISSION, AND SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE. YOU NEED TO MAKE TWO PRINTED COPIES.
Assessment 2: Personal Journal + Reflexive Statement [70%]
Requirements:
A journal containing the following:
The journal can be created in a format that suits you. It must then be compiled into printed submission sectioned as follows.
A daily or task-based breakdown of your empirical research.
If it was a placement/experience then this should highlight key events, skills acquired and reflect on any personal/professional development acquired.
If this was an interview based project then this should include all transcripts and detail evaluations of the contributors and the sector.
Research material and all correspondence relating to the ʻexperienceʼ. It is expected that you will have further researched the area of the creative sector that you are interested in and the employer that you worked with.
Notes & reflection on any changes that are to be made to the materials developed since undertaking your research (i.e. updates to CV, revisit the SWOT). You do not have to re-submit the original entries but give explanations and reflections on changes.
Notes & reflection from the interview exercise from week 2.
A completed evaluation form. To be completed by the person/s that you engaged with during the process, they might have supervised or mentored you, or you may have interviewed them through the completion of your research.
Reflective statement (1000 words). You must write a paper reflecting on the ʻexperienceʼ and its relation to:
Professional and academic development. Your plans post-university.
You are expected to refer to the readings to qualify any statements.
ALL MATERIAL IS TO BE PRINTED AND ORGANIZED IN A FOLDER FOR MFM SUBMISSION, AND SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE. YOU NEED TO MAKE TWO PRINTED COPIES.
A journal containing the following:
The journal can be created in a format that suits you. It must then be compiled into printed submission sectioned as follows.
A daily or task-based breakdown of your empirical research.
If it was a placement/experience then this should highlight key events, skills acquired and reflect on any personal/professional development acquired.
If this was an interview based project then this should include all transcripts and detail evaluations of the contributors and the sector.
Research material and all correspondence relating to the ʻexperienceʼ. It is expected that you will have further researched the area of the creative sector that you are interested in and the employer that you worked with.
Notes & reflection on any changes that are to be made to the materials developed since undertaking your research (i.e. updates to CV, revisit the SWOT). You do not have to re-submit the original entries but give explanations and reflections on changes.
Notes & reflection from the interview exercise from week 2.
A completed evaluation form. To be completed by the person/s that you engaged with during the process, they might have supervised or mentored you, or you may have interviewed them through the completion of your research.
Reflective statement (1000 words). You must write a paper reflecting on the ʻexperienceʼ and its relation to:
Professional and academic development. Your plans post-university.
You are expected to refer to the readings to qualify any statements.
ALL MATERIAL IS TO BE PRINTED AND ORGANIZED IN A FOLDER FOR MFM SUBMISSION, AND SUBMITTED TO THE SCHOOL OFFICE. YOU NEED TO MAKE TWO PRINTED COPIES.
For Next Week,
-Turn up appropriately ready for an interview.
-Bring along a draft CV
-Look at interview exercise resources, pick a job and think about what questions they may ask.
- Fill out university application form.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)