I'm going to be applying to a few art schools soon and I wanted to include a short video in my portfolio. Right now I'm only doing minor brainstorming, so I just wanted some feed back on the rather vague plot I have so far. So, it would focus on a rather anal-retentive young person who is appalled by little things that people do. Such as: the noises they make while eating, touching things that belong to the main character, and other little things like that. Eventually the character gets so disgusted that he/she bursts out at the people around and tells them how vile they are. This greatly upsets and embarrasses everyone and the main character is left feeling like crap. Of course there is huge room for development and I would really like to hear what people have to say. Keep in mind that this would be a short and since it's for art schools it would mainly revolve around visuals.

Great start for a film- I don't know what film schools are asking for but this is a good start for a short. Many people come on here and pitch some idea that's already really weird and ask us to fix it but this is good.

Could work with someone on a date (or multiple dates) maybe?

Think of an insteresting setting or focus that will coincide with the concept.

Good premise... now it needs a story

Also, film schools are typically looking for a ten-minute demo reel which shows off your skills. It can be a short film, or a compilation, whatever.

Center the film around action. Instead of the character "bursting out" and merely saying something, have him actually do something, its much more interesting that way. Also have bigger consequences. People feeling embarrased and feeling like crap is not big enough, who really cares? If you fix those fundamental things (I'm not pretending I know what you can do specifically for your story) will greatly improve your short. It's a good premise though.

Thanks, if anyone has any plot ideas please post. I'm kind of in a crunch for time so I need all the help I can get. Also, I'm applying to art schools not film schools. I don't know if there would be any change in what they expect. Hoyafilm, I was also questioning the "bursting out" part.

Art schools? Hmmm... They want an artistic portfolio, no doubt. I know RISD wants drawings no matter what major you're applying for. Best to check now and be prepared.

I mean, I don't know what they expect for videos. I know what most art schools want in a portfolio. I was told that it would be a good idea to include a film or video as part of the portfolio. I would do a film but I dont have the time to get Super 8 film transfered before I send out my portfolio, so I'm left with video.

You can do a pseudo transfer by projecting it and taping that.

Sadly, my S8/8mm projector isn't working. I'm not even sure if I can bring it anywhere to get it fixed.

Oh dear... maybe you can find a local theater that has an old projector set up somewhere which will let you do a quick transfer when no one's around.