Hi Guys it's James here,
Firstly I'd like to say a huge thank you to all those who took part in the competition this year. All of the videos were great, and I really enjoyed watching them.
One thing that I think really stood out this year was just how much you guys love getting naked!! That's some serious comitment underground, and I can only say I think you're all completely insane!
I was really glad to see so many of you take the time to drive a real narrative in your films. I mean there was a fair range of narratives, but I was interested to see what you all came up with, and I certainly wasn't disappointed by your creativity.
It was great also to see the humour hasn't dried up in student caving circles either, I was loving some of the parodies and p**s takes that were entered. I applaud the comics among you.
Thanks aswell to those guys in the smaller, and newer clubs. I know first hand how daunting it can be trying to put together a video of underground footage, and then posting it publicly too! I was made up by the standard of all the entries, and couldn't have asked for a better, more interesting competition to judge.
However, there always had to be an overall winner. Narrative, and Visuals were my key points. The video that, for me, stood out when it came to linking stunning visuals with it's narrative, and using the two to drive forward an interesting and insightful piece of film making was; MARTIAN CAVES. I was hooked from the start, and the varied interesting camerwork kept me engaged the whole way. Congratulations.
My runner up, and in a very close second place was COINCIDENCE CAVE. The opening sequece of drone footage was properly drooly! I could'nt believe the standard. The fact that it as a film about cave exploration too - well this really was something special. Keep up the good work guys! Also has there been any more developments since the film was released?
I also have a cheeky Third place. This wasn't something I was specifically asked for, but I really did love the CAVeR video. I thought it was very on point, and some of the shots in the cave were beautifully done. Especially the candle shot in the chamber at near the end.
Finally I'd like to congratulate and thank everyone who took part. You really did create some amazing videos, and the standard has been superb. I can't wait to see what you all come up with next year. Hopefully I get invited back to have another look.
Thanks,
James
www.jamesmoorcroft.com
