the chase

For: Groups of Five or Six
Difficulty: Advanced

Objective
Upon completion of this lesson, students will know how to plan, shoot, and edit a chase sequence.

Points to emphasize

• Each piece should have a clear beginning, middle and end.

• There should be an obvious villain or "chaser" established early in the sequence.

• The entire video should be shot on campus.

• Each group member should appear at least once in the completed video.

• Continuity is crucial. Groups should pay attention to this as they shoot.

• Wide, medium, and tight shots as well as shots from different angles can enhance the tension and the impact of the chase.

• Music is allowed, but natural sound should be included too.

Equipment: One camera, tripod, microphone, headphones, and editing station per group

Assignment

In groups of five or six, plan, shoot and edit a 60-second chase sequence, paying special attention to camera techniques and angles. Take one day to plan, one day to shoot, and two days to edit.

NOTE: Re-shooting and/or shooting additional footage is allowed, but students should be aware of continuity issues such as clothing and weather.

Relevant Lessons:
Video Coach Volume 1, Chapter 2: “Wide, Medium, Tight”

Video Coach Volume 1, Chapter 3: “Sequences”

Video Coach Volume 1, Chapter 5: “Top 10 Tips”