Introduction to 1st Assignment: Webseries Thriller Pilot

Starter: http://www.channel4.com/programmes/utopia/on-demand/53616-001

Examine the clips for conventions of camerawork and editing

Pass: 
Describe the use of camera in the clips
Describe and outline the use of narrative techniques 

Merit: 
Explain the use camerawork  
Explain the purpose of narrative in relation to genre

Screenshot examples of the use of:

Angles

Variety of Shots

Movement

How does the framing change

How does the camera establish relationship between characters?

How clear is background and what could this mean?

Composition - centering or symmetry

Composition - lines and geometric shapes

Dominant character

Vulnerable characters

Creating distance or feeling abandoned

Intimidation or intense characters

Sept (3 weeks) – Boot Camp Induction Project Planning shooting and group work – webisode as a class (multi-stranded narrative) – individual responsibility rated and paired tasks based on performance for webisode      1. What makes a good webisode pilot (criteria) Storytelling: Narratives &  Characters      2. Shooting workshop (shot types, framing & composition)      3. Pitch idea to class      4. Pre-production documents       5. Shoot 3 part B-M-E (3’s)      6. Editing workshop      7.  Crit & Evaluation worksheet + Directors commentary Deadline 28th September

Assignment: Webisode Production Scenario: https://www.youtube.com/user/KateModernLG15 https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/KateModern YouTube is a powerful tool for producers of digital media to exhibit their portfolio of work and create an audience. In the last 10 years, this platform has seen a rise of prosumers working collaboratively to create their own content. This includes new formats such as ‘webisodes’ where aspiring filmmakers create their own low-budget stories, with input from the audience. Since the huge success of Video Game High School, new filmmakers can find an audience and secure funding directly. Youtube are looking to host a channel dedicated to attracting a popular teen audience is looking for new content that can draw views, likes and advertisers. They are interested in distributing a new teen-thriller and are looking for pilot webisodes.  You will need to research into the format, looking at successful examples, niche audience, and current trends to create your own webisode. Your ultimate aim is to ensure your product has the potential to go viral with this audience. You will then complete a Pre-production portfolio to map out your requirements and resources to go into production. You will then pitch your idea for your 3 minute webisode to your target audience – having decided the most successful you will then work collaboratively in groups of 3 to produce a pilot 3 episode run. Having delivered your production to deadline, you will need to measure the success in meeting the brief by measuring viewing statistics and feedback on social networks, showing a written evaluation.

Criteria (Unit 22 A, C + Unit 19 C + Unit 2 3)

Task 1: Research examples of Teen-oriented Thriller webseries
Examine the examples below and answer the questions:

Pass: Describe and outline the example
Merit: Explain the purpose and reasons in relation to audience experience


How is the genre established?


How the narrative is set up by the pilot episode?


How are the characters introduced?


Is this a Linear or Non-Linear Narrative?


Is this Realist or Anti-Realist?


How does the episode end to encourage the audience to watch the next episode?


How does the series (or serial) end?