The acclaimed independent feature film Something in the Dirt, which was nominated for the NEXT Innovator Award at the 2022 Sundance Film Festival, has completed its post-production using DaVinci Resolve Studio. The film, directed by and starring Aaron Moorhead and Justin Benson, explores supernatural events witnessed by two neighbors.
Moorhead's Approach to Grading
Despite not identifying as a colorist, Aaron Moorhead felt confident in his ability to grade the film after just one week of online tutorials. "I brushed up on DaVinci Resolve and felt comfortable with the program," he said. "It’s a testament to how user-friendly it is."
Creating a Unified Look
The film's unique visual style was developed in post-production, combining traditional cinematography with stock footage and original video and digital camera shots. Moorhead utilized DaVinci Resolve along with the OFX plugin Dehancer Film Emulation to achieve the desired look.
Moorhead began by softening edges and adding grain for a more natural film texture. He then balanced colors using various curves, ensuring the film didn't appear overly processed. The Dehancer plugin was used sparingly but effectively to add subtle film emulation effects like gate weave and halation.
Favorite Scene
Moorhead highlighted a rooftop conversation scene as his favorite for its emotional depth and visual beauty. "It was great to have a heart-to-heart chat, shoot it in a beautiful sunset, and then grade it with a strong, luscious sunset look," he said.
Something in the Dirt, produced by Rustic Films and distributed by XYZ Films, is now available in theaters.