DGN4604 · Cinematic design for film

Overview

This unit introduces you to foundational concepts, tools, and techniques in video production, with a focus on how emerging technologies - particularly Artificial Intelligence - can enhance and expand traditional cinematic design. You’ll explore creative and technical processes involved in designing, scripting, shooting, and editing, while working with AI tools that support various stages of the filmmaking workflow, from storyboarding to content generation. With an emphasis on hands-on practice and critical reflection, the unit helps you develop core skills in visual storytelling, cinematic design language, and narrative structure. You'll also examine the evolving role of film in contemporary media, building the knowledge and experience needed for both creative expression and broader multimedia communication contexts.

Offerings

Assessment

The Handbook does not list a final examination among the assessment items. That is not a guarantee there is none.

100% in-semester assessment

Assessment details may change. Please refer to the assessment information in Moodle closer to the start of the teaching period.

Requisites

Learning outcomes

1. Describe key concepts in cinematic storytelling, including narrative structure, shot composition, and visual communication, to build foundational knowledge for creative video production;
2. Design and produce short-form video content by applying skills in scripting, storyboarding, camera operation, editing, and title/credits design, demonstrating technical proficiency and creative problem-solving;
3. Integrate traditional filmmaking methods with emerging AI tools - such as those for scripting, storyboarding, video generation, and voiceover - to expand your creative practice across analogue and digital workflows;
4. Reflect on your own creative and collaborative process in video production, recognising how your technical and aesthetic decisions shape viewer perception and your identity as a media maker;
5. Demonstrate engagement with evolving media practices by exploring how emerging technologies like AI influence storytelling, showing a commitment to responsible and innovative design;
6. Evaluate and refine your filmmaking practice by critically reviewing feedback, identifying areas for improvement, and adapting to new tools, techniques, and creative challenges.

Workload

12 hours per week including 3 contact hours plus 9 hours of independent study.

Student experience, not official rules. Nothing here changes what the Handbook says.