Advanced Film assignment one:

Silent movie scavenger hunt

Objective: Students (working in groups of up to five or working alone) will create a short (60 seconds max) silent film that will clearly communicate a story to the audience.

Requirement: The film will contain 20 different shots that communicate a simple action. There must be a story or ‘point’ that has a beginning, middle, climax and end. The shots and sequencing of editing must convey the point to the audience without dialogue.

Resources and activities:

Types of shots: In class we have done an elements of composition exercise, so try and keep in mind the basic rules of composition. You can visit this website to brush up on the 11 rules or refer to the poster at http://www.lsrhs.net/departments/FATA/media_arts/digitalphoto/composition/index.

For a review of shots and shot types go to:

http://www.lsrhs.net/departments/FATA/media_arts/adv_film/shots/shots.pdf

Scavenger hunt: if you are ‘rusty’and just want to get started, go out and get the shots as shown on the scavenger hunt.

Story resources: in class I will show examples from the silent film era, along with examples of work done by other students.

If you think you have an idea together, you can skip the scavenger hunt and storyboard and shoot it. Check with me on your progress and if you are ready to go ahead.

You can use either iMovie or FinalCut Express to edit. Depending on what people want, I will provide instruction in FinalCut Express if needed for this assignment.

Time frame: you will have a maximum of three class blocks to complete this project.

Extra credit: once you have received your grade you may compose a soundtrack in Garageband to accompany the film.