BACKGROUND: You have been working with the cameras and the editing software for a whole semester now. You have the working knowledge of how to film, import files, edit, add sound and effects and create movies.

PRODUCT REQUIREMENTS:

The Independent Film Group members will be responsible for creating a 1-5 minute film.

Any subject that you wish to pursue is fine for this movie. Please pick a film idea that is of interest to you! I would like this assignment to actually be fun!

Here are the eligible video categories.  If you have already created an indepenent film, your next film must be from a different category than the first:

• A music video. Take a song and come up with your own music video for it. Be aware, this is not only very difficult, but will also ruin your taste for any song that you are working with. Don't pick your favorite song!  Feel free to create a skateboard, BMX or Motocross video put to music.
• A short film or skit: Make up your own or do a "condensed version" of your favorite film.
• An interview with someone interesting and important to you.
• A highlight film: I have had people put together their rodeo clip or football clip film for submitting with college applications. Alternately, you can film the highlights of a sporting event and provide commentary.
• A Documentary: Film an activity and describe what happened and why.
• A How-To Video: Do you do something other people can't do? Film it and explain how the process works.

Each film should have, at minimum, the following:

1. A written TREATMENT, submitted before filming begins, that outlines the ideas and subjects of your film. Download this link. Then open up the INSPIRATION program on your desktop (see picture right). From INSPIRATION, open your treatment file. Then simply click and enter your information. Save it when you are done and show it to Mr. B. You will need his approval before starting your project!
2. A SCRIPT: This should be a fairly detailed and well thought out plan of action for the production of your film. You have a film pictured in your head that you would like to create, the SCRIPT outlines and organizes your thoughts for you. Do NOT go out randomly shooting film and hoping that you catch something good enough for a movie!
3. Filming and Editing: Get your shots, film your scenes, use the 5 rules! Use transitions and effects if they ADD to your movie!
4. Add sound and music. This tends to greatly improve the quality and interest of any movie.
5. Opening Title, Closing Credits, please make sure to give credit to anyone that helps you with your film.
6. Burn your movie out as an MPG and turn it in for everyone to see!

WRITTEN REVIEW: Each student, when completing the Independent Film Unit, will also be responsible for completing a ONE PAGE written review of some piece of videography that you have seen recently. This can be a TV show or a Movie from a theater, I don't care which. In your review, I would like you to describe the video that you saw and review the basics of the plot. Then, describe in your review whether or not you like the video and why. I would like it if you paid particular attention to the videographic elements of the film, such as acting, settings, sound, special effects, etc., when you do your review.