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Southern Utah University
Southern Utah University
Fall Semester 2025

Subtext for the Screen (Face-to-Face)

FILM 2200-01

Course: FILM 2200-01
Credits: 3
Term: Fall Semester 2025
Department: ARTD
CRN: 32623

Course Description

Theory and practice of capturing subtext through screenwriting, composition, lighting, sound, editing, performance, music, staging, and mise-en-scène.

Required Texts

  • Each student is required to provide their own choice of camera: mobile phone, DSLR, mirrorless, or any other available that allows for manual control of exposure via aperture, shuGer and ISO. You can edit in any of the open campus labs which have ADOBE PREMIERE available.

Learning Outcomes

MEDIA PRODUCTION

Learning OutcomeAcJvity/AssignmentAssessment Method
Effec-vely u-lize Mirrorless Cameras, unidirec-onal sound devices, and ligh-ng systems to complete mul-media subtext exercises.Comple-on of mul-media subtext exercises.Graded using rubrics for proper u-liza-on of camera, sound, and ligh-ng equipment at beginner level.
Effec-vely u-lize non-linear edi-ng techniques and sound mixing soRware to complete subtext exercises.Comple-on of the non-linear edi-ng process for mul-ple subtext exercises.Graded using rubrics for proper u-liza-on of video edi-ng at beginner level.

COMMUNICATION

Learning OutcomeAcJvity/AssignmentAssessment Method
Idea Fluency: clearly expresses a unique perspec-ve/idea.Development of original ideas for capturing subtext via mul-media exercises.Graded using rubrics for structure, content and style.

CRITICAL THINKING

Learning OutcomeAcJvity/AssignmentAssessment Method
Effec-vely develop original ideas.Comple-on of mul-ple subtext exercises.Graded using rubrics for structure, content and style.
Effec-vely troubleshoot stages of produc-on of subtext exercisesComple-on of mul-ple subtext exercises.Graded using rubrics for comple-on of various prepara-on stages of subtext exercises including screenwri-ng, composi-on, ligh-ng, sound, edi-ng, performance, music, staging, and mise-en-scène

Course Requirements

PROJECTS:

- SHORT SCRIPT - 15%
  • Objective: To demonstrate an understanding of subtext and it's effective incorporation into a short film script.
  • Write a short film script that is 3-5 pages long. Your script should incorporate subtext, which adds depth and hidden meaning to the story. We will read and workshop the scripts in the class, the writer must be present.
  • Length:
  • The script should translate into a 3-5 minute short film. ( 3-5 Pages)
  • 2. Loca-ons:
  • The story should be set in 1 to 2 loca-ons.
  • 3. Dialogue:
  • Minimal dialogue.
  • The narra-ve should be driven primarily through visual elements.
  • 4. Visual Storytelling:
  • Focus on using camera angles, movements, composi-on, ligh-ng, and ac-on to tell the story.
- VISUAL LOOK BOOK- 20%
  • Objective: to create a visually compelling look book that effectively communicates the overall mood, feel, and visual style of a film.
  • Create a look book that captures the essence of the film's mood, atmosphere, and visual style. The look book should consist of a collage of images, colors, textures, and other visual elements that evoke the desired emotions and convey the intended mood of the film. Your Look book should include: similar films that capture the mood and tone you are going for, color design choices, location inspiration, wardrobe and set design choices.
  • Pay attention to the overall composition and visual coherence of your look book. Ensure that the images and elements chosen align with the intended mood and atmosphere of the film. Provide brief captions or descriptions for each image or element on the mood board, explaining their significance and how they contribute to the overall mood and visual style of the film.
- STORYBOARD AND FLOOR PLAN- 20%
  • Objective:To visually translate the mood, tone, and subtext of a short film script into a storyboard and floor plan that effectively capture the intended visual storytelling elements.
  • Using your previously written short film script (from Assignment 1), create a storyboard and floor plan that align with the mood, tone, and subtext of your film.
  • Storyboard: Create a series of sequential drawings or sketches or photos that represent the key visual moments and shots of your film. Each panel should capture a specific scene or shot, including camera angles, character positions, and important visual details. Pay attention to composition, framing, and the overall visual storytelling elements that enhance the subtext of your film.
  • Floor Plan: Develop a floor plan that outlines the spatial layout of the key locations or sets in your film. Include details such as camera placement and light placement. Your floor plan should also include furniture placement, props and any significant elements that contribute to the subtextual layers of the story. The floor plan should provide a clear understanding of the physical space and how it relates to the narrative and character interactions.
  • Ensure that both the storyboard and floor plan align with the mood, tone, and subtext of your film. Use visual cues, symbolism, and other elements to enhance the subtextual layers and convey the intended emotions and messages.
- ANIMATIC/ PHOTO STORY- 30%
  • Objective: To pre-visualize and plan the visual storytelling elements of a short film through the creation of an animatic or photo story, allowing students to effectively communicate their intended shots, pacing, and overall visual narrative.
  • Choose either an animatic or photo story as your preferred method of pre-visualization for a scene in your short film.
  • Animatic Option:
  • Create a sequence of storyboard panels that represent the key shots and scenes of your film.
  • Use Adobe premier to edit transitions, and sound effects and music to the storyboard panels, creating a rough animated version of your film.
  • Pay attention to the pacing, timing, and overall flow of the animatic to effectively convey the intended narrative and visual storytelling elements.
  • Photo Story Option:
  • Capture a series of photographs that represent the key moments and shots of your film.
  • Using Premier Pro, edit the photographs in a sequential order and use sound design and music ensuring to effectively convey the narrative and visual progression of your film.
  • Both options should effectively communicate the shots, camera angles, composition, and overall visual narrative of your film.
  • Pay attention to the mood, tone, and subtext of your film, ensuring that the animatic or photo story aligns with these elements.

GRADING

  • A 93-100%
  • A- 90-92%
  • B+ 86-89%
  • B 83-85%
  • B- 80-82%
  • C+ 77-79%
  • C 74-76%
  • C- 70-73%
  • D+ 67-69%
  • D 63-66%
  • D- 60-62%
  • F 59% or less

ASSESSMENT

STUDENTS WILL BE ASSESSED BASED ON THEIR UNDERSTANDING OF THE TECHNOLOGIES AND CONCEPTS COVERED IN CLASS & HOW THAT UNDERSTANDING IS REFLECTED IN THEIR CREATIVE WORK. FINAL GRADE WILL LARGELY REFLECT THE QUALITY AND SINCERITY OF STUDENTS' EFFORT IN THIS CLASS.

Course Outline

MODULE 1: UNDERSTANDING, CONCEPTUALIZING & WRITING SUBTEXT

  • 8/28 IntroducJon Assignment: Watch Fight Club on Canvas
  • 9/02 NO CLASS - Labor Day
  • 9/04 Lecture: What is Subtext? Assignment: Due: Watch Fight Club
    ScreenwriJng Basics
  • 9/09 Lecture: Subtext Breakdown & Examples Assignment: Read instructor-assigned scenes
  • 9/11 WriJng Exercise - Dialogue In class Ac-vity: Revise in class script
  • 9/16 Read Subtext Scripts
  • 9/18 Read Subtext Scripts
  • 9/23 Read Subtext Scripts Assignment: DUE: Short Subtext Scripts- First draf
  • 9/25 Read Subtext Scripts

MODULE 2: PERFORMING SUBTEXT

  • 9/30 Subtext through Performance Due: Watch Marriage story
  • 10/02 Performance Exercises
  • 10/07 Lecture: Subtext through Staging Assignment DUE: Watch Rear Window
  • 10/09 Staging Exercises
  • 10/14 NO ClASS- FALL BREAK

MODULE 3: VISUAL SUBTEXT

  • 10/16
  • 10/21 Subtext through costume design Colors, paZerns, accessories Assignment DUE: Watch: The Joker
  • 10/23 In class exercise
  • 10/28 Student PresentaJon: lookbook Assignment: DUE: Visual LookBook
  • 10/30 Student PresentaJon: lookbook
  • 11/04 Lecture: Subtext through LighJng Floor plans and storyboards Assignment: Watch: Blade runner
  • 11/06 LighJng Exercises
  • 11/11 Lecture: Subtext through Camera Movement Assignment: Watch: The Black Swan
  • 11/13 In Class Camera movement Exercise Watch and CriJque
  • 11/18 Subtext Through Music Assignment: Due: Storyboard Watch: The sound of metal
  • 11/20 Sound design and Music exercises.
  • 11/25-27 No Class- ThanksGiving Break
  • 12/02 Watch + CriJque AnimaJcs Assignment: DUE: FINAL PROJECT
  • 12/04 Watch + CriJque AnimaJcs

Note: Addi/onal ar/cles may be assigned for reading. Also, although unlikely, addi/onal produc/on exercises may be assigned to the groups.

Instructor's policies on late assignments and/or makeup work

Unexcused late work will not be accepted.

Attendance Policy

attendance is mandatory.

A student who misses more than 25% of scheduled class time (including unexcused absences and tardiness) will receive a final grade no higher than a “C–”, and may fail the course, regardless of performance on assignments.

Excused absences—such as those due to documented illness, university-sponsored activities, or other legitimate circumstances—may be made up with appropriate documentation (e.g., a doctor's note or official university communication). It is the student's responsibility to inform the instructor before the absence when possible and to make arrangements to complete missed work promptly.

Consistent attendance and active participation are essential to your success in this course and in your development as an artist.


Course Fees

 FILM courses have a $50 per credit fee

ADA Statement

Students with medical, psychological, learning, or other disabilities desiring academic adjustments, accommodations, or auxiliary aids will need to contact the Disability Resource Center, located in Room 206F of the Sharwan Smith Center or by phone at (435) 865-8042. The Disability Resource Center determines eligibility for and authorizes the provision of services.

If your instructor requires attendance, you may need to seek an ADA accommodation to request an exception to this attendance policy. Please contact the Disability Resource Center to determine what, if any, ADA accommodations are reasonable and appropriate.

Academic Credit

According to the federal definition of a Carnegie credit hour: A credit hour of work is the equivalent of approximately 60 minutes of class time or independent study work. A minimum of 45 hours of work by each student is required for each unit of credit. Credit is earned only when course requirements are met. One (1) credit hour is equivalent to 15 contact hours of lecture, discussion, testing, evaluation, or seminar, as well as 30 hours of student homework. An equivalent amount of work is expected for laboratory work, internships, practica, studio, and other academic work leading to the awarding of credit hours. Credit granted for individual courses, labs, or studio classes ranges from 0.5 to 15 credit hours per semester.

Academic Freedom

SUU is operated for the common good of the greater community it serves. The common good depends upon the free search for truth and its free exposition. Academic Freedom is the right of faculty to study, discuss, investigate, teach, and publish. Academic Freedom is essential to these purposes and applies to both teaching and research.

Academic Freedom in the realm of teaching is fundamental for the protection of the rights of the faculty member and of you, the student, with respect to the free pursuit of learning and discovery. Faculty members possess the right to full freedom in the classroom in discussing their subjects. They may present any controversial material relevant to their courses and their intended learning outcomes, but they shall take care not to introduce into their teaching controversial materials which have no relation to the subject being taught or the intended learning outcomes for the course.

As such, students enrolled in any course at SUU may encounter topics, perspectives, and ideas that are unfamiliar or controversial, with the educational intent of providing a meaningful learning environment that fosters your growth and development. These parameters related to Academic Freedom are included in SUU Policy 6.6.

Academic Misconduct

Scholastic honesty is expected of all students. Dishonesty will not be tolerated and will be prosecuted to the fullest extent (see SUU Policy 6.33). You are expected to have read and understood the current SUU student conduct code (SUU Policy 11.2) regarding student responsibilities and rights, the intellectual property policy (SUU Policy 5.52), information about procedures, and what constitutes acceptable behavior.

Please Note: The use of websites or services that sell essays is a violation of these policies; likewise, the use of websites or services that provide answers to assignments, quizzes, or tests is also a violation of these policies. Regarding the use of Generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), you should check with your individual course instructor.

Emergency Management Statement

In case of an emergency, the University's Emergency Notification System (ENS) will be activated. Students are encouraged to maintain updated contact information using the link on the homepage of the mySUU portal. In addition, students are encouraged to familiarize themselves with the Emergency Response Protocols posted in each classroom. Detailed information about the University's emergency management plan can be found at https://www.suu.edu/emergency.

HEOA Compliance Statement

For a full set of Higher Education Opportunity Act (HEOA) compliance statements, please visit https://www.suu.edu/heoa. The sharing of copyrighted material through peer-to-peer (P2P) file sharing, except as provided under U.S. copyright law, is prohibited by law; additional information can be found at https://my.suu.edu/help/article/1096/heoa-compliance-plan.

You are also expected to comply with policies regarding intellectual property (SUU Policy 5.52) and copyright (SUU Policy 5.54).

Mandatory Reporting

University policy (SUU Policy 5.60) requires instructors to report disclosures received from students that indicate they have been subjected to sexual misconduct/harassment. The University defines sexual harassment consistent with Federal Regulations (34 C.F.R. Part 106, Subpart D) to include quid pro quo, hostile environment harassment, sexual assault, dating violence, domestic violence, and stalking. When students communicate this information to an instructor in-person, by email, or within writing assignments, the instructor will report that to the Title IX Coordinator to ensure students receive support from the Title IX Office. A reporting form is available at https://cm.maxient.com/reportingform.php?SouthernUtahUniv

Non-Discrimination Statement

SUU is committed to fostering an inclusive community of lifelong learners and believes our university's encompassing of different views, beliefs, and identities makes us stronger, more innovative, and better prepared for the global society.

SUU does not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, citizenship, sex (including sex discrimination and sexual harassment), sexual orientation, gender identity, age, ancestry, disability status, pregnancy, pregnancy-related conditions, genetic information, military status, veteran status, or other bases protected by applicable law in employment, treatment, admission, access to educational programs and activities, or other University benefits or services.

SUU strives to cultivate a campus environment that encourages freedom of expression from diverse viewpoints. We encourage all to dialogue within a spirit of respect, civility, and decency.

For additional information on non-discrimination, please see SUU Policy 5.27 and/or visit https://www.suu.edu/nondiscrimination.

Pregnancy

Students who are or become pregnant during this course may receive reasonable modifications to facilitate continued access and participation in the course. Pregnancy and related conditions are broadly defined to include pregnancy, childbirth, termination of pregnancy, lactation, related medical conditions, and recovery. To obtain reasonable modifications, please make a request to title9@suu.edu. To learn more visit: https://www.suu.edu/titleix/pregnancy.html.

Disclaimer Statement

Information contained in this syllabus, other than the grading, late assignments, makeup work, and attendance policies, may be subject to change with advance notice, as deemed appropriate by the instructor.