Term Project Proposal

Project:  A video taped discussion pertaining to creative ways of filming
as if it were in a movie) the "virtual reality" scenes from the William
Gibson short story Winter Market.

Preparation:  Participants in the discussion will be encouraged to thoroughly
familiarize themselves with the characters in the story.  The discussion will
not be moderated, however, participants will be given certain topics and
ideas to consider in advance.  There will be an emphasis on conceptual
thinking, as described in class.  Some of the topics that will be considered:

1.  What the "images"  from Lise look like when viewed

2.  What factors are going to contribute to the content of these images.
(Ex:  her addiction to whizz, possible attraction to Casey, certain images
that might indicate what her mental state is, etc.)

3.  How these "factors" are going to come through or appear in the "images"
that Lise produces.  Is there a correlation between who Lise is in real life
and the images that she produces?  Is it obvious, or is it subtle?

4.  How much the viewer is involved in the images.  (Is it just visual, such
as a movie, or does it encompass more senses, or even all senses (as in
Strange Days)?)

5.  Possible real life actors and actresses to play the parts in the entire
movie, with specific emphasis on who should play Lise.

Participants are also strongly encouraged to suggest other topics for
consideration.  One person will also be needed to operate the video camera,
but two people can trade off so that all may participate in the brain storming
session.

The filming would probably have to be done on the weekend in the evening.
The length of the video will be determined by the amount of input provided
by the participants.  Food and beverage will probably also be present to
create a more relaxed and informal environment.

What is needed:

A video camera, preferably a Super VHS or 8mm.  The VHS needs to be a full
size, not compact.  A compact VHS tape only lasts about 30 minutes.  There
will need to be either an additional battery, or an AC power plug with an
extension cord.

One tape of the appropriate format.

A place to film this production.  It will have to be a place that is free
from distractions (drunk roommates, home invasion robberies, kids, etc.).
There will also have to be ample seating with sufficient space for the camera
to maneuver.

Willing participants

If you have questions or would like to participate, you can E-mail me
at pguyer@pacbell.net, or see me in class.