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Topics in Film/Video/Audio Production (379-0-20)

Topic

Science Fiction

Instructors

Clayton Brown

Meeting Info

Louis Hall 106: Thurs 12:00PM - 2:50PM

Overview of class

In this course, students will collaborate in small groups to write, produce, and shoot a science fiction micro-short film. We will also watch and discuss existing science fiction features and shorts, analyzing themes, special effects, and story-telling techniques. The course will also provide basic instruction in low-fi (practical) effects, as well as some rudimentary special effects (i.e. green screen). Production expertise is not required; 190 is the only pre-requisite. Any camera is acceptable for shooting, including iphones, cameras you're qualified to check out from the cage, or your friend's roomate's brother's camera. Stories and ideas, rather than production values, are most important.

Each student group will create a 3-5 minute film. If desired, groups can collaborate to combine their films into a longer piece. All manner of science fiction / speculative fiction ideas are welcome and encouraged, including stories that have nothing to do with spaceships, aliens, other worlds, or robots (although these ideas are certainly welcome as well). Queer, non-binary, and BIPOC voices are often underrepresented in science fiction. Those voices and stories are welcome here!

We will also explore integrating AI into the storytelling process, experimenting with ChatGPT as well as Midjourney to generate ideas and spark inspiration.

Students are encouraged to interact with other students in other areas: sound designers, composers, actors, writers, in the hopes of fostering collaborations that last beyond the 10 weeks of the quarter.

Learning Objectives

Because science fiction films are sometimes heavy in post-production, students are expected to have at least a rough cut completed (more, if possible) by the end of the quarter, with the hopes that post-production will continue.

Teaching Method

Lab

Evaluation Method

Class participation

Class Materials (Required)

You will need a hard drive for your footage. Any readings will be provided by the instructor.

Class Notes

The course will meet weekly for three hours.

Enrollment Requirements

Enrollment Requirements: Students must have completed RTVF 190-0 in order to register for this course (concurrent registration is not allowed)