Final Project
Final Project
21/06/2025 - 19/07/2024(Week 10 - Week 14 )
YANGYANG / 0363575
Video and Sound Production / Bachelor of Design (Honours) in Creative Media / Taylor's University
Final Project
LIST
1. Instructions
2. Final Project
3. Reflections
Instructions
At the beginning of the project, our team randomly selected the first card in the Tarot deck — Death. Intrigued by its multi-layered symbolism, we conducted further research to uncover its deeper meanings. We discovered that the Death card not only represents the end of something, but also the idea of rebirth and transformation. However, after careful consideration, we decided to focus on its surface meaning, as we wanted to create a video with a dark and eerie atmosphere.
Synopsis:
A college student receives a mysterious black envelope that glows with an unnatural light. Upon opening it, they are trapped in a nightmarish countdown to their own disappearance—only to discover the curse is cyclical, passing to a new victim in the final frame.
During the early planning phase, we went through several rounds of brainstorming and revisions, constantly refining our ideas to strike a balance between creative vision and practical constraints. To ensure a smooth and efficient shoot, we adjusted our original concept based on real-world factors such as location, props, and time limitations. We also prepared a detailed storyboard and shot list, both of which are included in this presentation. However, once we began filming and moved into post-production, we realized that some of the planned content was difficult to execute as envisioned. Certain shots had to be modified or removed entirely due to on-site challenges. As a result, the final video differs from our original plan in some aspects. Nevertheless, the overall structure and intended atmosphere remain intact, and we believe the final outcome still effectively conveys the mood and story we set out to create.
The key props were made by looking up tutorials online and colouring the paper with black paint, which isn't particularly sophisticated, but it's enough to get the job done.
For the basic cinematography, we primarily used smartphones along with phone tripods. Most of the scenes were filmed in our own apartment, which proved to be both a convenient and advantageous setting. On one hand, working in a familiar and private space allowed us greater flexibility in scheduling and setting up shots. On the other hand, the low-traffic, enclosed environment helped us create the eerie and suspenseful atmosphere we aimed for, making it easier to capture the horror vibe we envisioned.
In the process of creating visual effects for the video, I spent a significant amount of time researching and going through tutorials. My original idea was to create a dramatic burning envelope effect, which I believed would enhance the visual impact and contribute to the horror atmosphere we aimed to build. I experimented with a variety of techniques—such as overlaying flame footage, using masks, and attempting fire simulations in different software—but despite my efforts, I couldn't achieve a level of realism and integration that satisfied me.
After many trials, I came to the realization that forcing a low-quality effect into the final cut could undermine the overall tone and visual quality of the piece. Reluctantly, I made the decision to let go of the fire effect and instead focused on crafting a particle transformation effect, where the envelope dissolves into particles. This alternative was more achievable given my current technical skills, and still aligned well with the eerie, mysterious vibe we wanted.
Although I do feel a sense of regret for not being able to bring my original vision to life, this experience taught me the importance of making thoughtful compromises in creative work. I hope to revisit this effect in future projects when my technical abilities have further improved.
Unlike the envelope’s particle effect, which was created using After Effects, the particle transition for the numbers and the animated number roulette were produced in Premiere Pro. While these effects share a similar conceptual core—centered around motion, transformation, and dispersion—their visual textures and production methods differ significantly.
After Effects offered more advanced tools for controlling particles, layering, and animation dynamics, allowing me to achieve a more detailed and immersive result for the envelope sequence. In contrast, the effects in Premiere Pro were accomplished using simpler techniques such as masking, transitions, and built-in effects. Although less intricate, these methods were still effective for the visual goals I had in mind.
This contrast between the two workflows gave me a deeper understanding of the strengths and limitations of each software, and helped me allocate my time and technical focus more effectively throughout the project.
Reflections：
Experiences
In this final VFX project, I was fully immersed in every stage of the production process—from early ideation and visual planning to hands-on filming, editing, and effects design. The theme, rooted in the symbolism of the tarot card The Devil, allowed me to explore darker psychological concepts such as illusion, temptation, loss of control, and fractured identity.
I particularly enjoyed visualizing abstract emotions using symbolic imagery like mirrors, shadows, and fragmented reflections. One of the most technically challenging but rewarding parts was creating visual effects that matched the mood. I initially intended to create a burning envelope effect, but after many attempts and tutorials, I couldn’t achieve a satisfying result. Instead of compromising the overall quality, I chose to switch to a particle transformation effect—this decision taught me how to adapt creatively under limitations.
Throughout the project, I used both After Effects and Premiere Pro to create different effects. AE was used for more complex effects like the particle dispersion of the envelope, offering precise control and dynamic layering. In contrast, PR was used to build simpler effects such as the number roulette and light flickers. This combination of tools helped me balance time, complexity, and artistic intent. Filming in a familiar environment—my own apartment—also gave us more control over lighting and timing, which was especially helpful in creating a tense, horror-like atmosphere.
Working closely with my teammates, we overcame several unexpected issues during post-production, from shot timing to VFX limitations. This collaboration not only improved my technical skills, but also sharpened my ability to communicate ideas and respond flexibly to problems.
Observations
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Visual effects are not just about aesthetics—they carry emotional and narrative weight.
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The mirror, for example, served not only as a physical prop but also as a metaphor for duality and inner conflict.
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Even minor shifts in lighting or subtle sound distortions can drastically impact the emotional tone of a scene.
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The editing rhythm directly influences audience perception—slow transitions build suspense, while fast cuts convey inner panic or instability.
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Software selection matters: AE excels in visual complexity, while PR supports efficiency and structure.
Findings
This project made me realize that effective visual storytelling is less about showing everything, and more about guiding what the audience feels. The use of “the other self” as a recurring visual concept spoke to a common experience in today’s digital world—the tension between one’s authentic identity and one’s performed self.
Through this project, I also learned that subtle details—a flicker in the mirror, a delayed sound, a silent pause—can evoke stronger emotions than exaggerated visuals. Carefully controlled color tones, shot framing, and effect transitions work together to shape a deeper, more psychological narrative.
Overall, this project helped me grow as both a technical editor and a conceptual thinker. It taught me how to use visual tools not just to decorate a story, but to embody its emotional core. I now feel more prepared and excited to explore complex emotions and symbolic storytelling in future creative work.
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