Video and Sound Production | Final Project
Instructions
Task 3
Experience
For our final video assignment, my partner and I produced a one-minute short film inspired by Tarot Card XX: Judgement, focusing on themes of inner conflict, vulnerability, and personal awakening. The narrative centers on a character named Lucy, who encounters an unsettling book that gradually disrupts her sense of reality. As the story unfolds, Lucy experiences a loss of control as time fragments, her identity becomes unstable, and she is forced to confront an uncomfortable version of herself.
Visual effects were a key storytelling tool in representing Lucy’s psychological state. We used repeated appearances of the character to suggest fractured time, lightning effects to heighten tension, and surreal body alterations such as the disappearance of her mouth and eventually her physical form. I was responsible for directing, cinematography, lighting, and post-production editing, while my partner performed on screen and assisted in developing the storyline. Balancing multiple roles was demanding, especially with limited equipment and time, but it allowed me to gain hands-on experience across the full production process.
Observation
Through this project, I observed how powerful visual effects can be when used to express internal emotions rather than spectacle. The symbolism drawn from the Judgement card was most effective when communicated visually, particularly the loss of Lucy’s mouth, which conveyed fear, isolation, and an inability to speak or escape. Careful planning through storyboards helped ensure that the narrative remained clear despite the abstract elements.
Because the film was only one minute long, pacing became extremely important. Every shot needed to contribute meaningfully to Lucy’s psychological decline. Working closely with my partner also highlighted the importance of communication and adaptability, especially when decisions had to be made quickly on set.
Findings
This project taught me that strong storytelling relies more on intention than complexity. The visual effects worked because they supported the emotional direction of the story instead of overwhelming it. The Judgement card represents confrontation and self-awareness, and translating these ideas visually made the message more impactful than relying on dialogue.
I also learned how crucial sound design is in shaping atmosphere. Moments of silence, distortion, and subtle audio cues intensified the sense of unease, particularly when Lucy lost her voice. Even within a short runtime, a focused concept combined with thoughtful execution can leave a lasting impression on the audience.
Conclusion
Overall, this project helped me develop as both a visual storyteller and a creative problem-solver. It strengthened my understanding of how to integrate VFX purposefully, manage a small production team, and communicate complex emotions within a limited timeframe. The experience reinforced that meaningful visuals and clear themes can transform a simple idea into a powerful narrative. I am proud of how we reinterpreted the Judgement card into a short film that explores identity, fear, and self-confrontation.
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