FINAL PROJECT: From Song to Screen

PROJECT: “Song to Screen”

OBJECTIVE: Produce a short film based on a song. NOT a music video, but rather an actual short film with a cast of actors, dialogue, a developed plot and characters, artistic composition and direction. The song is used for inspiration. An adaptation if you will.

GROUPS: These films will be created by individuals with permission OR groups of 2-3 students. The groups should have a specified group leader, someone willing to be head writer and/or director.

SONGS: Each song has been carefully selected by the instructor for its content. Each group will receive a copy of the song (in digital form) and the lyrics (if it in fact has lyrics). Place a copy of it on your computers ASAP. This song may be in the final film. It doesn’t have to be, but it can if you choose.

DIRECTION: Each group will need to decide how the song will influence their narrative. If your song has lyrics, you may use them to inspire the short story. Maybe your song just establishes a certain mood and that will be your starting point for the film or used during an important scene. Perhaps the song brings thoughts to mind, or creates images in your head that could be brought to life on screen. Where you choose to take the film is completely up to you and your group members, however… it must be inspired by the song. Write a story. Develop it. Produce it.

REQUIRED:

1. Written screenplay (100 points)
2. Cast (group members may NOT appear in the film) (25 points)
3. Storyboards or detailed shot list (50 points)
4. Final film (on DVD) with a running time of 4-8 minutes (100 points)
5. Movie poster, flyer or DVD cover art (25 points)
6. Self-Evaluation (25 points)

DEADLINES:

• Screenplay:
• Cast:
• Shooting:
• Final Tape:

GRADES: Groups will receive a common group grade (325 possible points shown above) and each group member (or individual if working alone) will receive an individual grade based on participation and effort (100 possible points). This makes the grand total 425 possible points!

DESIGN WORK: Your movie poster/flyer/DVD cover art will be a digital file. You could use still images from your film shoot, take specific photos for this or use other sources for your designs. These files should be 8.5” x 11” (300dpi) for the poster/flyer or use the correct dimensions for the DVD art (I have a template for you.)