OUGD502 - JJ Abrams

In a TED talk, JJ Abrams, a film maker, talks about the inspiration he took from his grandfather. His grandfather got him into deconstruction of everyday objects which JJ found fascinating, and enjoys looking at the process of letterpress, book binding and construction of boxes. This interest in deconstruction is what inspires JJ's work. He discussed a mystery box that he has kept hold of for years and never opened. He keeps it closed because it reminds him how film is a blank page that can be filled with something fantastic, like his mystery box. He explains how mystery is what draws us as audience in. By keeping elements hidden, it adds to the mystery and makes film more interesting.
He then went on to talk about how with todays technology, anybody can go out and make films with special effects, which was inspiring hearing a professional tell you that anyone can do it now the recourses are available. But even more interestingly he reminded the viewers that you don't need the greatest technology to produce great work.
This talk was interesting and will inform my own public speaking. JJ has a good way of using humour to engage his audience as well as drawing their attention to a prop which would relieve some of the pressure he would be feeling. It will also enforce my own practice knowing that great work doesn't have to be produced on high end equipment and that my own practice can be produced at the high quality the work professionals produce with todays access to technology.