FLM 115

History of Film and Animation (3 Cr.)

Prerequisites: None

Description: This course examines the more than 100-year history of film and animation. Beginning with the scientific and technical advances that made these media technologies possible, students will explore every major movement and genre as well as their impact on society. The course will give special consideration to examining all of the various professional outlets for this technology.

FLM 151

Visual Language and Film Analysis (3 Cr.)

Prerequisites: None

Description: Animation is ultimately “film making,” and animators should learn from the many classics on how to effectively bring various film production elements together. Students will review several films and study how the relationships between scripts, cameras, lighting, sets, production design, sound, acting, costumes, props, directing, and production lead to successful visual stories. They will also examine the fundamental theories underlying visual storytelling. Understanding the creative processes utilized by these influential filmmakers will provide insight into how students may improve their own animations.

FLM 201

Cinematography (3 Cr.)

Prerequisite: FLM 151

Description: Like a director of photography, computer animators must have a good understanding of appropriate camera composition and lighting techniques to enhance the visual impact of the story being told. Appropriate composition and camera movement help to reveal action, and lighting establishes focus, place, and mood. Students will analyze examples of effective cinematic techniques from a variety of different animations and films. Assignments in camera composition, movement, and lighting will help students solidify their understanding of the concepts presented.

FLM 250

Post-Production (3 Cr.)

Prerequisite: FLM 201 or FLM 150

Description: The last step of any animation project involves the assembly of various production elements ranging from rendered files to sound effects. This is also the stage where the visual effects artists add the effects seen in today’s movies. This course teaches the fundamental skills these artists use in post-production. Effective editing skills are the primary outcome of the course. Students will also cover the planning, execution, and addition of special effects to animation.

FLM 275

Sound Design and Foley (3 Cr.)

Prerequisites: None

Description: Every good animation relies on a well-designed soundtrack to enhance the production. While most animators do not produce the soundtrack themselves, they need to understand the effect of music, voice, and sound effects on an audience. Animators must be able to communicate their ideas to a musician and understand the technological possibilities of modern sound design. Initially students will survey a broad range of music from different cultures. Emphasis will be on developing basic listening skills in hearing rhythm, melody, harmony, color, texture, and form. Students will then learn how to apply this to the production needs of animation. The course will give special attention to the generation of sound, how to use sound to advance a story, and how it can create mood, a sense of place, and emphasis.

There may be course fees associated with this class. Please see the course registration packet for details.