Project Brief :
Your team has been hired to design promotional components for a new up and coming movie that has been designated as G or PG-13. The team must create a minimum of 4 items, and one must include the Movie DVD Case (Front, Spine, & Back). Other items could include: Store Movie Poster, Characters, Movie Trailer, Social Media Ad Campaign, Swag, etc.
Plot Synopsis:
Karma Back on Jupiter is a PG-13 mystery film created by:
-Isabel Cárdenas Orozco
-Mariah Harrison
-Kadee Hantke
In the quaint town of Guthrie, the seemingly idyllic friendship among three girls- Jupiter, Kaci, and Yuna- masks a brewing storm beneath the surface. At first glance, the town appears picture-perfect, as does their friendship, but lurking beneath the facade lies a tangled web of secrets and betrayals. Suddenly, Jupiter vanishes without a trace, pushing Yuna and Kaci into a desperate search for answers.
As they delve deeper into the mystery, Kaci grapples with a gnawing suspicion that her own internal conflicts might be linked to Jupiter’s disappearance. Clues left behind by Jupiter puzzle the duo, leading them to uncover a trail of deceit and betrayal that hints at a much bigger and more sinister force at play. With each revelation, they confront the possibility that the perfect facade of their town and friendship might be a carefully constructed illusion, masking a darker truth.
As the girls race against time to unravel the mystery, the lines blur between friend and foe, leaving them to question whether Jupiter’s vanishing act was an act of vengeance or a consequence of the dark undercurrents simmering within their seemingly harmonious relationship. With each piece of the puzzle, they come closer to the chilling realization that some secrets are best left buried, and that the price of unraveling the truth might be more than they bargained for. Will they be able to find Jupiter, or was karma getting her back inevitable?
Team Brainstorming & Goal Documentation :
Brainstorming:
We knew that going into our brainstorming session that we wanted to create a film using mixed/multimedia avenues. This would mean potentially conducting live action filming, and then mixing those live action elements with animated elements in the production process. This would allow us to create a trailer with different elements that we will be able to use across the rest of the project’s tasks (ads, merch, movie posters).
We ultimately chose a more PG-13 mystery genre concept for our trailer. This led us to come up with a brief plot synopsis and idea that will direct us for the trailer; the movie will take place in an old small town where a person in a friend group has gone missing. The trailer will hint at what route the friends will be taking to solve the mystery, and possible clues they may use to find their friend. Additionally, there will be other external elements, such as suspect mysterious scenery, and a soundtrack that will add to the mystery genre.
This brainstorming session and work led us to the idea of making the main characters follow specific color themes, along with changing the lighting and sound design to better reflect certain themes and tones we wanted to incorporate into the project as a whole. We used the ideas that we were able to create during our brainstorming session to create potential character designs, color palettes, settings, and possible sound designs. We conducted any further research based on what was agreed upon in these initial team meetings.
Goal Documentation:
We decided that our project goal would be to create different, but collective, elements of film marketing (i.e. a film trailer, poster, ads, and merch) for our mystery genre themed movie. We also decided we wanted to allow everyone to have a chance to be creative directors for different elements of this project. This was done by dividing up our tasks with lead roles being assigned to different team members:
Character Design Director: Kadee Hantke
Movie Trailer Director: Isabel Cárdenas Orozco
Movie Poster Director: Mariah Harrison
Ad Campaign Director(s): Mariah Harrison (billboard ads) & Isabel Cárdenas Orozco (social media ads)
Merchandise Creation Director: Kadee Hantke
No one in particular was given directive lead over the DVD case portion of the project, and instead, all team members had to contribute equally to it’s creation and feedback on it’s different iterations.
Character Design :
We were able to create character designs, with Kadee’s directive lead. She made some character designs for all the main characters we wanted to use for the rest of the project. We were able to make character moodboards to help reenforce the idea of what each of the main characters would look and feel like tonally in relation to the movie trailer and other marketing productions.
Character Moodboard: Yuna
Character Moodboard: Jupiter
Character Moodboard: Kaci
Finalized Character Designs:
Poster Design:
We started off our poster design work with research on the genres that best inspired our work; mystery, thriller, and horror. We were then able to conduct research on the typography & lighting typically used, and associated with the mystery and thriller genres. With this research and feedback from each other, especially in regards to what we wanted on the final poster, we were able to compile some initial iterations of the poster. After conducting further feedback through team meeting, and feedback sessions with our instructor; we were able to create final edits to the poster design we liked. This portion of our project was directed and highly produced by the creative direction of Mariah Harrison.
Final Movie Poster:
DVD Case Design:
This section of our work did not have a creative lead. Because this was one of the main required pieces of this project, we elected to instead work on it as a team. This meant actively providing changes & feedback on the iterations of the project that was being made. I was able to find copyright free templates to be utilized to help us layout our DVD case. We elected to use a modified version of the films poster as the cover, to create a connection between the different elements of the project. Mariah and Kadee were able to help with attaching the front cover & create a spine for the DVD case. I was then able to create the back of the DVD case. After some final feedback from our team meeting sessions, and some feedback on the brightness and legibility of the poster from our instructor, we were able to finalize our DVD case.
Final DVD Case:
Merchandise Design:
We firstly conducted research on the types of merchandise typically made for this genre of film. With initial research & feedback on what we wanted our merch to display; we were able to create initial iterations of the merch types. After a review of the initial iterations & the project goal, we were able to decide on the following for final merch creation:
-Popcorn Bucket & Cup
– Stickers
-Hoodies
– Notebook
This project was directed & produced by Kadee Hantke, who was able to finalize this portion of the project. Additionally, Kadee was able to create physical samples of hoodie designs & stickers.
Final Merch Designs:
Ad Campaign Design:
We were able to decide on a few different advertisement types after considering the overall plot synopsis of the movie, and what would best reflect that. We ultimately decided on billboard advertisements for still ads (directed by Mariah Harrison) & social media video ads (directed by Isabel Cárdenas Orozco). These different advertisement types allowed us to showcase different elements of the film, and give a sneak peek into the tone that would be set for the plot overall. We also decided that these advertisements would still be mainly directed at the main teen to young adult target audience, as they would be displayed in spaces generally meant for these groups. Additionally though, due to the outreach that these platforms have, these advertisements could be viewed in general audience spaces as well, & reach a larger audience. The release schedule of these ads would coincide with the announcement of the film. With the film being announced a few months before the billboards & the social media video ads being released. Every aspect of these advertisements incorporates something from the trailer, or other aspects of the projects. This was done to make sure all of the different aspects of the project were showcased in a summarized format through the advertisements.
Movie Trailer:
We were able to make the final trailer with creative input from all the team members, and with creative direction from Isabel Cárdenas Orozco; we were able to design final costumes, props, and choose locations that gave us permission to film. The targeted audience of this movie trailer leans towards teens to young adults interested in the mystery genre, of course, film trailers will also reach general audiences as well. The release schedule for this trailer would be shortly after the advertisements and announcement of the film. Every aspect of this trailer showcases key elements (such as the clues, the hinting dialogue, etc.) this was done to really make sure that all the different elements of this project would be show in an enticing way that allowed for better understanding( without spoilers) of the plot.
Project Brief :
Prompt:
You have decided to accept the challenge of creating a Credits, Song, or Poem! It is time to show what you know! This can help you get into an animation/art school or gain employment!
Plot Synopsis:
My Project Synopsis:
For my final project I decided that I would be making an animation to the song, “Me Vieron Cruzar,” by Calle 13. This song is in a slam poetry style and is reflecting on the immigrant story and latin american perspective. I used this in tandem with some of my own audio and poetry track to further connect my artwork and the audio. All in all, it will be a tribute to my culture and my family who worked so hard to get me where I am.
Brainstorming:
Research:
I have conducted research for this skills showcase, particularly pertaining to the traditional Mexican folk art-style I referenced this style throughout my animation sequences in this project. I was able to find out quite a bit in relation to the origins and history of Mexican art and the traditional folk art styles and methods. While animation may not be a physical art form, I will be able to use this research to further influence my art palette and general style in order to better honor the traditional art forms I will be referencing and paying tribute to in this skills showcase.
I then conducted further research for this skills showcase, particularly pertaining to the themes I wanted to convey through the structure and outline of the audio and scripting of this project.I had some initial outlining of my thought process for this project, which can be seen in my general research and brainstorming, but as I progressed into the main idea I had developed for this project the research became more directed and clear. I wanted to assure that I was not simply copying the message from the song I chose, but also adding on from my culture and own personal experiences. I firstly created some rough outlines and ideas in my ideation process. Which I then used and edited to help me come up with my own poem and rough structure of my animation.
Scripting:
For this project I had to make sure that I had all elements of the audio fully scripted out for recording and animation purposes. All the audio is in Spanish for this very purpose, as it is my native language. The song sections of, “Me Vieron Cruzar,” were already recorded and scripted, as they come from the artist Calle 13. I had to make sure to additionally script out and create the spoken word poem portions of this animation as well, as I wanted to have auditory transitions and a closer tie to my own personal heritage through the audio of this project.
My Poetry Script :
Opening Sequence Poem:
¿Te acuerdas de quién eres?
Recuérdate de dónde venimos, hija
mía.
Porque como dice el dicho, las
personas humildes
vienen de orígenes humildes,
donde la tierra susurra historias
ancestrales
y el viento lleva consigo los
sueños de nuestros antepasados.
Opening Sequence Poem:
Do you remember who you are?
Remind yourself where we came from, my daughter.
Because as the saying goes,
Humble people come from humble beginnings,
Where the earth whispers our ancestral stories
And the wind carries with it the
dreams of our ancestors.
Closing Sequence Poem:
Aunque el mundo cambie y los
tiempos sean difíciles,
nuestra historia perdurará como un
faro de esperanza,
recordándonos siempre de dónde
venimos,
y guiándonos hacia el futuro con
humildad.
Translation of Closing Sequence Poem:
Even if the world changes and the
times are hard
Our history will endure as a beacon of hope,
Always reminding us of where we come from
and guiding towards the future with
humility.
Storyboarding:
Audio & Sound Editing:
All finalized audio can be heard in the animatic. The sound design was a vital part of the process of creating the animatic, as the images and animation will take cue from the audio portions of the animatic.
Animatic:
Final Animation:
Project Brief :
Prompt:
You have decided to accept the challenge of creating a Digital Media Production! Topic: Create a public service announcement (PSA) about anti-bullying, mental health awareness, or an environmental issue. This video must have an impactful message, a call to action, an opening graphic, and educational content.
Plot Synopsis:
My Project Synopsis:
For my final project I decided that I would be making an live video production. I utilized the concept of different emotion masks for all actors involved in order to hone in on how we display or hide our mental illnesses. This paired with different scenes creates a wider understanding of who can be effected by mental health issues, and further allows the audience to connect with this heavy topic.
Brainstorming:
In order to figure out what direction I will need to take this project in, I will first need to break down and brainstorm the three individual concepts for theme of this project:
PSA 1: Anti-Bullying Campaign: Sample Project
Title: “Words Matter”
Opening Graphic:
A black screen with simple white text:
“Bullying leaves scars you can’t always see.”
Fade into a montage of different kids at school or online, showing expressions of fear, sadness, and isolation.Impactful Message:
A voiceover says:
“Every day, millions of kids are victims of bullying. Whether it’s face-to-face or behind a screen, words hurt.”Educational Content:
Cut to a counselor explaining the long-term effects of bullying on mental health:
“Studies show that bullying can lead to anxiety, depression, and even self-harm. It’s not just teasing—it’s trauma.”Call to Action:
Return to the kids seen earlier, now smiling and standing together in solidarity.
Text on screen:
“Stand up. Speak out. Be kind.”
Voiceover: “If you see bullying, don’t ignore it. Stand up for your friends and speak out. Together, we can stop it.”
Provide a hotline number and website for resources on bullying prevention.
PSA 2: Mental Health Awareness: Sample Project
Title: “It’s Okay to Not Be Okay”
Opening Graphic:
A calm, soft-colored animation of waves on the shore.
Text appears: “Mental health is just as important as physical health.”Impactful Message:
Voiceover: “1 in 5 adults and children struggle with mental health issues every year. Yet, many suffer in silence.”
Show various people going through daily tasks, masking their stress, anxiety, or sadness.Educational Content:
Switch to a professional (e.g., a psychologist) speaking to the camera:
“Mental health challenges, from anxiety to depression, can affect anyone at any time. Seeking help isn’t a sign of weakness. It’s a sign of strength.”
Provide statistics on the importance of mental health support and early intervention.Call to Action:
Show different individuals opening up to friends, family, or a therapist.
Text on screen:
“Talk to someone. You are not alone.”
Voiceover: “If you’re struggling, reach out. Help is available. There’s no shame in getting support.”
End with a mental health hotline number and a website for free counseling or support groups.
PSA 3: Environmental Issue: Sample Project
Title: “Our Planet, Our Responsibility”
Opening Graphic:
Time-lapse of a beautiful natural landscape—forests, oceans, mountains—followed by scenes of pollution and deforestation.
Text on screen: “Our planet is in danger. The time to act is now.”Impactful Message:
Voiceover: “Every year, millions of tons of plastic fill our oceans. Forests are disappearing. The air we breathe is polluted. We are the cause, but we can also be the solution.”Educational Content:
A narrator explains the environmental impact of human activities:
“Plastic waste kills over 1 million marine animals each year. Deforestation contributes to 15% of global carbon emissions. Every action we take has consequences.”
Show simple steps people can take to reduce their impact, like recycling, using renewable energy, and reducing plastic use.Call to Action:
Show people cleaning up beaches, planting trees, and using eco-friendly products.
Text on screen:
“Change starts with you.”
Voiceover: “Small changes can make a big difference. Choose to protect our planet for future generations.”
Provide a website link to learn more about environmental conservation and volunteer opportunities.
Research:
Once I decided what project subject I wanted to focus on (mental health awareness); I was then able to conduct further research about mental health and mental health awareness:
Websites I used for research:
Mental Health Statistics- National Institute of Mental Health: https://www.nimh.nih.gov/health/statistics
The State of Mental Health in America: https://mhanational.org/issues/state-mental-health-america
Mental Health Statistics (2024): https://www.usa.edu/blog/mental-health-statistics/
USA Today- Mental Health Statistics: https://www.usatoday.com/money/blueprint/health-insurance/mental-health-statistics/
Fast Stats- Mental Health:
https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/fastats/mental-health.htm
Mental Health Disorder Statistics: https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/mental-health-disorder-statistics
Scripting:
Once I was able to create a base plot synopsis and conduct proper research on this topic, I was able to create a final script for my Video Production:
Script for PSA: “Break the Silence: Your Mental Health Matters”
(Black screen with soft, slow music in the background)
White text fades in:
“1 in 5 people struggle with mental health, but most remain silent.”
(Text fades out. The scene transitions to a busy street where people pass by, each wearing neutral masked expressions.)
Cut to a student sitting alone in a classroom.
Cut to a mother looking overwhelmed at home.
Cut to a man at his work desk staring into space.
Brief flashes of words overlay the scenes:
“Anxiety. Depression. Stress. Isolation.”
Voiceover (calm):
“Behind every face is a story we don’t see. Mental health struggles are invisible, but the pain is real.”
Camera zooms in on each individual’s face, revealing a hidden mask of fear, sadness, and exhaustion.
Voiceover:
“No one should feel they have to face it alone.”
Voiceover:
“Mental health issues like anxiety, depression, and stress can affect anyone. They are common, treatable, and nothing to be ashamed of.”
Cut to a graphic showing key facts:
“50% of mental health conditions begin by age 14.”
“Seeking help early can prevent long-term effects.”
Scene shifts to forms of support for the people with the sad masks: a group therapy session, a person texting a crisis hotline, and someone speaking with a counselor.
The mood lightens as the sad people’s masks fade into happy masks and they are seen smiling and engaging in supportive activities.
[Call to Action]
Voiceover:
“If you’re struggling, talk to someone. Whether it’s a friend, family member, or professional, reaching out is the first step.”
Show masked individuals speaking to loved ones or counselors, with a look of relief and comfort. This is done to show how they are getting more comfortable with their feelings and beginning to wear their true masks
On-screen text:
“Visit MentalHealthMatters.org or call 1-800-123-HELP for support.”
Fade back to the busy street, but now the people are walking around with their true masks smiling, interacting, and walking with purpose.
Final text fades in:
“Your mental health matters. You are not alone.”
Voiceover:
“Together, we can break the silence around mental health.”
Music swells and fades out. Screen turns black.
Storyboarding:
