Write a script, Create Treatment and Breakdowns, Make a storyboard

1. Using “The Diamond” script PDF from Lesson 1 as a guide for script elements and formatting, write a script of no more than two pages.

Make sure to include each of the following:

  • A beginning/middle/end
  • Action
  • Dialogue
  • Character names
  • Location

2.

Treatment:

Remember – this is a detailed summary that should help readers imagine what the end product will look like. Make sure to describe the following in your treatment:

  • Plot
  • Characters
  • Genre
  • Intended audience
  • A description of the style and techniques of animation you would use to make this animation (i.e. cel animation, CGI, stop motion, or any other techniques you can envision using in your animation).
Breakdowns:

First, create a brief breakdown of the production elements (listed below) that you would need to produce your script. A suggested method for doing so would be to print out your script and use different highlighters to mark each item. Details about the following should be included:

Production Breakdown

  • Characters
  • Backgrounds
  • Props and furniture
  • Special effects
  • Voice talent/music/sound effects

Next, create a written Shot List Breakdown in whichever word processing program you’re using. Be sure to include the following:

Shot List Breakdown

  • Camera shots
  • Camera angles
  • Character actions

3.

Make a storyboard of at least 10 thumbnails for your script. You can make your storyboard drawings by hand, then photograph, or use computer drawing and coloring software. Use a few colors in your drawings to show the color palette for the film. Make sure to incorporate each of the following in your storyboard:

  • Perspective
  • Lighting
  • Character movement