Challenge - The Door Scene: Part I

Door : 19 - cc licensed ( BY NC ND ) flickr photo shared by Ryan Woolies

Objectives

• Create visual storytelling that communicates ideas in relation to the use of media and techniques. 
• Define and solve a challenging visual arts problem independently and collaboratively, using, analysis synthesis, and evaluation.
• Identify and synthesize principles, both synthesized and analytical, and visual storytelling techniques.
• Demonstrate understanding in the use of existing technology, with all its limitations and affordances. 

Rationale

The Door Scene is a hands-on introductory task of filmmaking. Filmmaking is a collaborative process that involves storytelling, time management, and teamwork, among other skills and literacies. The Door Scene provides a foundation for strengthening these skills, as well as an introduction to peer-to-peer feedback and critical thinking.

Challenge

With production teams of no more than five, you are to use a video camera to interpret and shoot the following scripted scenario:

A person is about to open a door. The person hears a sound and becomes mildly concerned. The person finds the door locked and searches for his or her keys. The person hears the sound again and becomes visibly apprehensive. As the filmmaker, your goal is to build tension and growing panic, using any visual element or device that you can think of. The film closes with the person finally opening the door and getting to the other side safely. Here, you want to communicate to the audience the character’s feeling of relief and safety.

Limitations

• Neither the character nor the audience ever sees the source of the sound
• The film can have only one actor
• The film cannot exceed 90 seconds
• The entire film must take place within five feet of either side of the door.
• You must assemble the shots "in camera,"as you shoot, without any post-production editing. 

Instructions

You have 20 minutes to shoot The Door Scene as a group, using whatever storytelling techniques you can to communicate the scenario.

Additionally, I want you to notice what you notice. Pay particular attention to the challenges that you experience while making this short video individually and collectively. It is someone's job to keep a list of the challenges, issues, and problems that occur while creating the video.

Legal

This lesson has been adapted from The 21st Century Educator's Handbook by American Film Institute Screen Education, 2006.