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Big Short Film Project

  • Writer: SCREEN GOAT
    SCREEN GOAT
  • Feb 12
  • 3 min read

Updated: Feb 17



If you want to be a filmmaker, content creator, or media professional, you must understand one thing:


Film is not random. It is a process. This project walks you through the entire professional production pipeline - from idea to screening. Use the same structure real production companies follow.


You are not just making a video. You are running a production company.


Use the 3-step production process: Pre-Production, Production and Post-Production



Pre-production Planning - Scripting, Shot List, Crew, Casting, Wardrobe, Props, & Locations.


Pre-Production is where professionals win or lose. If you plan well, production is smooth.

If you don’t plan… chaos.



Part 1. Break into Groups,

Form Your Production Company, No Limit on Group Size



Part 2. Create Your Production Company

Create a Production Company Name & Logo. The Logo will be used in your film.




Part 3. Organize

Create a Google Drive folder and share it with every member of your team. Inside your folder should be: Script, Shot list, Storyboards, Production schedule, Raw footage (uploaded daily)




Part 4. Write the Script (5–7 Minutes/5-7 Pages)

Story must have a beginning, middle and end, with Interesting characters, and emotional engagement.






Things to think about:

  • Start with a great idea

  • Creative writing (Show more than you tell)

  • How do you build suspense?

  • How do you convey emotion?

  • Are there other effects you can use? (Practical or digital)

  • Do you need make-up?

  • What costumes and props do you need?

  • What locations do you need?

  • Use smart / unique camera angles and great shot composition

  • What are your lighting needs?

  • How long is this going to take you to film?






Part 5. Cast & Crew Your Production


Every student must have a defined responsibility. Create "credit list" for the end of your film.

Assign real roles:


Producer (Organizer/ Project Manager)

Director

Camera Operator

Audio

Production Assistant

Location Manager

Wardrobe / Props Manager

Actors



Part 6. Print Scripts, Create Shot List / Create Storyboard, and Production Timeline

 

WAIT....Before you film, you MUST have:


✔ Printed Script(s)




Shot List Template:


Storyboard Templates:



Production: Camera, Lighting, Location(s), Actors, Scene Coverage


Part 7: Film Your Project

Each day you come to class, have a plan, know what scenes you are filming, execute efficiently, stay on schedule.



At the end of each filming day:

Upload all footage to your Google Drive

Share footage with your team




Post-production: Editing, Title, Graphics, Music, Sound Effects, Credits



Part 8: Editing

Every student will edit their own film



Your edit must include:

5 Second Slate, Logo, Title, at least one effect, and Full credits


  • Make sure your edit is clean

  • Watch audio levels

  • Use sound effects

  • Use copyright free / cleared music



Part 9: Turn It In ON TIME

We will have a Screening. So, turn it on on time.




Part 10: Big Short Film - Reflection

As a group, you will present:

What worked?

What didn’t?

What you would improve?

What did you learn about the production process?



Now go create something worth watching.


See you next time on SCREENGOAT.







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