Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/wei-dian-ying
In the ever-expanding universe of digital content, micro-films have carved out a significant niche. While numerous courses offer technical guidance on shooting and workflow, they often skim the surface. The real heart of micro-filmmaking, as this Coursera course, ‘微影人的自我修养’ (roughly translated to ‘The Self-Cultivation of a Micro-Filmmaker’), brilliantly illustrates, lies in understanding and connecting with people – the actors, the crew, and the audience. This course dives deep, offering a profound exploration of the human element that elevates micro-film creation from a technical exercise to a deeply personal and artistic endeavor.
Structured around the principle of ‘teaching to fish, not just giving fish,’ the course tackles the common pitfall of prioritizing technique over concept and mindset. It’s divided into three progressive modules: ‘On the Micro-Film Set,’ ‘Cultivating Micro-Filmmaker Concepts,’ and ‘Nurturing Micro-Film Thinking.’ Through project-based learning and immersive scenario recreations, you’ll journey from the fundamentals of shooting and workflow to the intricate nuances of script creativity, character development, thematic expression, narrative structure, and stylistic formation. The course doesn’t just teach; it guides you to truly grasp the essence of micro-film creation.
What sets this course apart is its commitment to fostering a long-term vision for aspiring micro-filmmakers. It encourages introspection, helping you identify your core motivations, passions, and stylistic preferences. By understanding the fundamental differences and similarities between micro-films and traditional cinema, you’ll cultivate a unique ‘micro-film mindset.’ This involves honing crucial qualities such as originality, passion, style, strategic thinking, structural integrity, attention to detail, character depth, and efficient workflow. The course emphasizes that these are not just skills to be acquired but ongoing aspects of self-cultivation.
The introductory module, ‘The Self-Cultivation of a Micro-Filmmaker,’ sets a powerful tone, framing micro-filmmaking as an act often born from inner impulses and fleeting emotions, even pain. It posits that when a story truly resonates with these deeper feelings, filmmaking becomes an unstoppable force. This foundational understanding is crucial for anyone aiming to approach micro-film creation with the right mindset and a genuine desire for pure expression.
‘On the Micro-Film Set’ provides a practical, hands-on experience. Using engaging methods like dramatizations and dynamic PPT subtitles, it walks beginners through the actual set environment, highlighting common mistakes and essential processes. The inclusion of interactive questions and project-based assignments makes learning both efficient and enjoyable, offering a realistic taste of the creative battlefield.
‘Cultivating Micro-Filmmaker Concepts’ is where the introspective journey truly begins. This module focuses on cultivating the essential qualities of ‘originality, passion, and style.’ It guides you to understand your personal preferences, encouraging you to make the development of these micro-film sensibilities a lifelong pursuit, integrating them into your very being to achieve a higher level of perception and mastery over yourself and the world around you.
Building on this conceptual foundation, ‘Nurturing Micro-Film Thinking’ delves into the critical aspects of scriptwriting, character arcs, thematic delivery, narrative techniques, and meticulous detail control. Through real-world project creation, you’ll internalize the creative essence of micro-filmmaking, culminating in a personal script, a production plan (PPM), and, ideally, a completed micro-film. This module also fosters a deeper understanding of the unique nature of micro-films compared to feature films, nurturing your individual creative thinking for continuous growth and transcendence.
The concluding ‘Postscript’ features the ‘Ten Declarations of Micro-Filmmakers,’ exemplified by the youth of Fudan University, championing the ideals of micro-filmmaking and encouraging a steadfast commitment to ‘the self-cultivation of a micro-filmmaker’ and ‘creating for the sake of micro-film itself.’
For anyone passionate about storytelling through the concise and impactful medium of micro-film, this course is an indispensable guide. It’s not just about making films; it’s about becoming a more insightful, intentional, and self-aware creator. Highly recommended!
Enroll Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/wei-dian-ying