Short Film Project
Assignment Overview
You will plan, film, and edit a 3-minute video (exactly 3:00) that demonstrates creativity, strong
composition, and thoughtful storytelling. Your final video should be filmed in landscape format and
should make intentional use of camera angles, movement, audio, and editing techniques.
You may work individually or collaboratively to film footage, but each student must submit their own
unique 3-minute edit of the project.
Videos shorter than 2:45 or longer than 3:15 will lose marks. Videos longer than 5:00 will not be
accepted.
Video Concept Options
Choose one of the ideas below, or propose your own (with teacher approval).
1. “A Day in the Life”
Create a short documentary-style video that captures an interesting day in your life or a unique part of
your daily routine.
Focus on specific details that reveal who you are – Consider morning rituals, your route to
school, a job, a hobby, or how you spend time with friends or family.
Use a variety of shot types (close-ups, wide shots, tracking shots) to make the ordinary visually
interesting.
Think about sound design and natural sounds (footsteps, typing, coffee brewing) or a calm
instrumental track can help create mood.
Example: A day in the life of a student who wakes up early to skateboard before school; the video
highlights quiet moments, city sounds, and quick cuts of morning routines.
2. “Music Video – Throwback Remix”
Produce a creative music video that uses a song from the 1970s, 1980s, or 1990s, but gives it a modern
twist to connect with what youth today finds appealing and interesting.
Choose a song that fits a theme or story for example “Don’t Stop Believin’” by Journey for a
hopeful narrative, or “No Scrubs” by TLC for a comedic spin.
Include storytelling or visual symbolism (rather than just lip-syncing).
Experiment with editing rhythm, transitions, and lighting to match the mood of the song.
Example: A 90s love song reimagined as a high school hallway romance with a modern aesthetic and
vibrant color grading.
3. “Genre-Blended Tutorial”
Create a how-to or tutorial video that also uses the style of another genre, such as noir, comedy, or
children’s TV.
Teach something simple (e.g., how to make ramen, how to tie a tie, or how to draw a cat).
Add genre tropes:
o Noir: dramatic shadows, voice-over narration, moody jazz soundtrack.
o Comedy: exaggerated sound effects, awkward pauses, quick cuts.
o Children’s show: bright colors, friendly narration, upbeat music.
Example: A “Film Noir Cooking Show” where the chef narrates a dramatic mystery while making
pancakes.
4. “Reverse Storytelling”
Tell a story in reverse. Begin with the climactic or final moment, then reveal how the characters arrived
there.
Use visual or narrative clues to help the audience piece the story together.
Think about how editing and pacing can help the reverse timeline make sense.
Example: Start with someone standing on a rooftop holding a letter and then cut backwards through
scenes that show what led to that moment.
5. Original Idea (with approval)
If you have a unique concept that doesn’t fit these categories, discuss it with your teacher before
beginning production.
Pre-Production Requirements
Step 1 – Brainstorm (1 page)
Choose two of the options above and write a 1-page brainstorm comparing your ideas.
Include:
Possible storylines or scenes
Tone and mood (serious, comedic, reflective, etc.)
Location ideas
Visual or audio elements you’d use
Any challenges you might face
You will conference with your teacher to confirm your idea is attainable.
Step 2 – Storyboard (6–8 Panels)
Create a storyboard showing 6-8 key moments in your video.
Each panel should include:
A sketch or image of the shot
Shot type (e.g., close-up, long shot, over-the-shoulder)
Audio (dialogue, sound effects, music)
Camera movement or effects (e.g., pan, zoom, slow motion)
Your storyboard will guide you during filming and help ensure visual variety.
Production Tips
Use your phone camera in landscape orientation.
Keep your shots stable: use a tripod, rest your phone on a surface, or use handheld movement
only when intentional.
Pay attention to lighting and framing.
Record extra footage (more than you need) to give yourself editing flexibility.