November 11, 2025

Architecture 5420: Computer Animation And Storytelling
Due: In-class screening December 2, 2025

Exercise 4: trailer for final movie

Create a 30-second to 1-minute animation preview trailer for your final movie. Connect the use of sound to your objects, spaces, and characters—their interactions, and the broader environmental setting. You may optionally record and incorporate your own sounds using a sound recorder.

The trailer should introduce the themes of your final movie but does not need to reveal the conclusion. You may combine still renderings and animated sequences as part of the preview. The subject matter should reflect your own creative and conceptual interests.

You are welcome to schedule an appointment to discuss your approach and themes while developing this exercise.

Requirements:

  1. Incorporate one or more captured sounds.
  2. Create one or more sequences at the same resolution.
  3. Work with one or more objects in your scene.
  4. Render at medium HD proportional resolution (e.g., 960 × 540 pixels or 1280 × 720 pixels).
  5. Output your animation as a JPEG or PNG image sequence for compositing and compile the final preview in .mp4 format.
  6. You may use OpenShot, iMovie HD (MacOS), Adobe Premiere, Final Cut Pro, or another preferred editing platform.
  7. Place your completed work in the class submit folder and email a 1–2 paragraph written description of your project.
  8. Pace your progress: create sample scenes and renderings over the next few weeks so that you have an initial representation of your project before Thanksgiving Break, and reserve the final few days for editing and final touches by December 2.

Note:

The final review (screening) is currently scheduled by the university for December 16 at 2:00 PM, during the final exam period. However, given potential conflicts with final Architecture and Landscape Architecture studio reviews and the marathon Design Charette which precedes it, we will discuss alternative viewing dates to ensure the best possible participation for everyone. If needed as last option, the class may be divided into two separate screening sessions. The final exam week concludes on December 19th.