Do you know anything about how to film a movie, or about film editing? Me neither (you did say “no”, right?). But it’s something I have always been a little interested in.
During my senior year in high school my best friend and I decided to make a short movie for a class project. I borrowed my grandmother’s huge and heavy video camera that had a blank VHS cassette in it and we took off for the local hills. We wrote out a 5 minute script about two guys who were living in some historical period. I don’t remember the details, but I do remember that we ad-libbed most of it and we had to keep rewinding the tape and starting over. Most of our mistakes were caused by sudden outbursts of laughter at how ridiculous it all was. We had a great time. When we messed up we would just rewind the tape and try it again. We knew nothing about editing or how to add music to the video. In the end we submitted a video tape that had no titles at the beginning, no credits at the end, no cuts (just one continuous shot), and no music. The class loved it and we got an A.
Sure, it would be great to spend $15,000-$20,000 on equipment for a film program and hire an instructor with the proper knowledge. But, really, who’s going to do that? Instead, how about running a competition. The following contest is ideal for teens but with a few changes you can tweak it to work for younger kids.
Step 1: Get some cameras or have the teams use their own. If you’re getting your own cameras I suggest something like the Sanyo Xacti
Step 2: Set-up the rules. I like the following:
- No editing of any kind is allowed. This keeps everyone on an even playing field. Some kids may have all the computer software and knowledge to professionally edit their project. Where’s the fun in that?
- There must be at least 2 people on each team. There is no max.
- Teams have 48 hours to complete their project.
- Teams must include the words “abracadabra” and “coolio” in their film. You can use any words you like, of course.
- Teams must include the use of a banana in their film. Again, use whatever prop you want.
- Teams are not allowed to use foul language in their film.
- Films must be longer than 2 minutes but no more than 5 minutes in length.
Step 3: Advertise the competition. Include any fees you plan on charging.
Step 4: Register the teams and start the 48 hour clock.
Step 4: At the end of the 48 hours have the teams turn in their films.
Step 5: Review the films for content and judging.
Step 6: On the next day hold a film festival showcasing all the entries. Teams and anyone else who is interested in seeing the films may attend. Charge a nominal fee and sell snacks.
Step 7: Award the trophy, or whatever, to the winning film. You may want to have different categories (funniest film, most creative, best use of words, best use of props, best cinematography, best overall, runner-up, etc.)
Step 8: Plan your next competition.
