Research & Aesthetics

For astral projection cannot be fully understood and studied through scientific perspectives, I've had to rely my research from sources relating with the occult. Sources such as http://www.crystalinks.com/astral.html , http://www.erinpavlina.com/blog/2006/12/the-dangers-of-astral-projection/ and other's takes on astral travel. These occult researchers define astral projection as an out of body experience where one's astral body (soul, consciousness) wanders outside the body and becomes associated with the astral plane and not physical reality in which we perceive "real life". People are able to execute this process with constant practice, as to some it comes with total ease and are able to undergo this experience with no hassle. As one embodies this astral body one becomes aware of the differences on the new plane. A silver chord is attached as it is the connection to the physical body since one is incarnated and its meant for one not to misplace his/her body while traveling. The astral world also has a very similar feel to reality although some minor differences pertain like constant glares and color enhancements. Descriptions such as these are found in every astral projection experience throughout history and the world, therefore I believe I should include them in great detail in the film.

I've been checking out some images for inspiration for the aesthetic for the opening. Insidious, a James Wan film also having to do with astral projection, has an interesting take on the idea of astral travel. This blue tinted, gloomy, suspenseful look adds a lot of contrast between the real world and the astral plane if done correctly. Although the blue tint is peculiar, I'd like to add my own twist into it and add purple-ish color grading for a more New Age artistic aesthetic. Also the heroin high scene from Breaking Bad, in which jesse undergoes an euphoric high, depicts a cool "hovering" look to the character through practical visual effects. I'd like to incorporate something like this to the scene in which my character leaves his/her body.