USC School of Cinematic Arts News

SCA Family Stories: Tadious Odissu

Tue, 21 May 2013 12:14:49 PDT

The School of Cinematic Arts houses a diverse body of students, each offering a unique background and point of view that they in turn bring to their work. For Ethiopian Tadious Odissu, his international upbringing would play a significant role in the stories he wanted to tell as a filmmaker.

Recently, MFA Production graduate Tadious Odissu sat down with SCA to discuss his film, What to Bring to America, his experiences as a refugee from Ethiopia to his journey to SCA and how passion is the driving force behind getting a filmmaker’s story told.

Alum in Jeopardy

Tue, 21 May 2013 13:21:38 PDT

Hannah Spector had been trying to get on Jeopardy! for 10 years. Here she was with a slim lead heading into the final round, and host Alex Trebek reveals the deciding subject to be “70s Blockbusters.” It's a movie category and she got her graduate degree from the USC School of Cinematic Arts in 2003.

IMGD Announces New Minors

Thu, 16 May 2013 10:33:29 PDT

As the marketplace for videogames continues to expand, the demands put on game developers continue to grow and change. Today’s video game professionals need to be skilled in areas as diverse as audio design, animation and entrepreneurship. Fortunately for students at USC’s Interactive Media and Games Division (IMGD), four new minors in Game Animation, Game Audio, Game Design and Game Entrepreneurism are now available to give students a key advantage before entering the industry.

Alumni with a “Cannes-do” Attitude

Mon, 13 May 2013 11:26:37 PDT

School of Cinematic Arts alumni have two films in competition at this year’s Cannes. Fruitvale (renamed Fruitvale Station) and The Immigrant will be competing in the 66^thFestival de Cannes, running from May 15-26. Longtime SCA ally Steven Spielberg will serve as this year’s President of the Jury.

USC Games Presents: Demo Day

Fri, 10 May 2013 13:26:43 PDT

USC Games, a joint venture between the USC School of Cinematic Arts’ (SCA) Interactive Media & Games Division and the Viterbi School of Engineering’s Department of Computer Science will host Demo Day on May 14, it was announced today by Tracy Fullerton, Chair of SCA’s Interactive Media & Games Division and Michael Zyda, Professor in the Viterbi School of Engineering. Demo Day will take place on the USC campus at the Eileen Norris Theatre. In its ninth year, Demo Day is an annual industry exhibition that showcases student-developed video games ranging from traditional video games to mobile, iPad games, as well as immersive game experiences. Visit USC Games: games.usc.edu

In Memoriam: Ray Harryhausen

Thu, 09 May 2013 09:10:31 PDT

Ray Harryhausen, an alum and former lecturer at the USC School of Cinematic Arts (SCA), died on May 7th in London. Harryhausen is known for pioneering visual effects work on films that include Mighty Joe Young (1949), Jason and the Argonauts (1963), the original Clash of the Titans (1981) and on several Sinbad films. His breakthrough effects featured in the film The Beast from 20,000 Fathoms (1953), inspired the monster movie genre.

Student Stories: Jorge Molina

Mon, 06 May 2013 09:54:10 PDT

The USC School of Cinematic Arts profiles students through the year so that aspiring SCA students can know what to expect from their time here. Student Stories recently profiled Writing Division BFA Jorge Molina. Below is that profile.

Tracy Fullerton Named a Technology Innovator Nominee

Mon, 06 May 2013 12:01:17 PDT

Chair of the USC School of Cinematic Arts’ Interactive Media and Games Division was named a nominee of the Chronicle of Higher Education’s 2013 Technology Innovator list. Fullerton’s work on Mission: Admission, a video game that teaches kids the ins and outs of applying for college, was featured as an example of Fullerton’s work.

The Iron Men of Marvel

Tue, 07 May 2013 10:02:35 PDT

Last night, students of Leonard Maltin’s Theatrical Film Symposium (CTCS 466) had a special treat for their last class of the semester with an advanced 3D screening of Iron Man 3. Following the film, Writer/Director Shane Black and Producer/President of Marvel Studios Kevin Feige visited the School of Cinematic Arts to discuss why “geek is good” and how superhero films are making huge strides today. Filling in for Maltin, Writing Professor Howard Rodman moderated the Q&A.

Crystal @ SCA

Wed, 01 May 2013 09:24:01 PDT

On April 26th, the Cinematic Arts students attending the screening of Disney/Pixar’s Monsters University knew that a special guest was coming after the film but didn’t know who. Director of Programming at the USC School of Cinematic Arts Alex Ago told them that their guest was someone who worked at Pixar by the name of Mike Wazowski. When Billy Crystal (who voices the character Mike Wazowski) took the stage, there was a full standing ovation.

USC Launches Industry Summit in Beijing

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 10:02:24 PDT

Hench-DADA Chair Kathy Smith Honored

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 10:48:20 PDT

One of the USC School of Cinematic Arts’ primary missions is to provide a world-class faculty for its students. Kathy Smith, the chair of the John C. Hench Division of Animation and Digital Arts exemplifies this tradition and was honored with the 2013 USC Mellon Mentoring Award for Graduate Mentoring by Faculty on April 25th at a ceremony at the USC University Club.

SCA Family Stories: Susie Yankou

Thu, 25 Apr 2013 14:35:16 PDT

High school can be a tough time for many teenagers, but it helps when someone else can relate. This is precisely what Susie Yankou ’15 wanted to accomplish when she started a DIY web series called 101 Ways to Get Rejected to chronicle the not-so glamorous blunders of an average high school student.

Writing student Yankou recently sat down with SCA to discuss the making of her web series, how her time at SCA has helped her build a collaborative team and advice for students looking to follow the DIY web series path.

The Simpsons @ SCA

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 12:38:40 PDT

In the 20th century, the standard way of getting hired as a television writer involved writing a spec script and hoping an executive would like your work. Now, writers and comedians are using previously unconventional outlets like YouTube and Twitter to get their work out to a major audience. On April 17th, Simpsons writers/producers Tim Long and Matt Selman and writing/producing comedy team Tom Gammill and Max Pross (Seinfeld, Futurama) visited SCA to discuss their careers and how anyone who wants to work in comedy can thrive in the digital age.

Bachus-Summers Fund for Innovation in Interactive Entertainment Established

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:18:19 PDT

Video game industry pioneers and USC alumni Kevin Bachus and Chanel Summers have made a donation to the USC School of Cinematic Arts Interactive Media & Games Division (IMGD) to establish The Bachus-Summers Fund for Innovation in Interactive Entertainment. The gift was announced today by School of Cinematic Arts’ (SCA) Dean Elizabeth M. Daley and will establish a fund for student support to be awarded to students showing initiative in the emerging fields of interactive and immersive media.

Rhythms + Visions / Expanded + Live 2

Thu, 18 Apr 2013 09:37:22 PDT

Rhythms + Visions / Expanded + Live will light up the School of Cinematic Arts Complex in an eventing of large exterior projections and animated sonic performances. Innovative artists Quayola & Sinigaglia, Miwa Matreyek and Charles Lindsay will perform an eclectic program of contemporary audio-visual art and visual music. The exterior spaces of SCA will come alive with interactive installations and building projections created by faculty and students from USC’s Digital Arts and Animation and Interactive Media divisions.

USC | 5D World Building in Action

Mon, 15 Apr 2013 15:50:05 PDT

USC | 5D Institute's first live, interactive festival, "The Science of Fiction: World Building in Action," held April 13 at the Norris Theater and SCI building, brought together a wide range of professionals, students, and youngsters to create a near-future LA 2020 in a single day.

Robert Zemeckis Profiled by the DGA

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 11:02:03 PDT

Robert Zemeckis Profiled by the DGA! http://www.dga.org/Craft/DGAQ/All-Articles/1302-Spring-2013/DGA-Interview-Robert-Zemeckis.aspx

2013 Commencement Speakers Announced

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 09:09:16 PDT

Long-time ally of the USC School of Cinematic Arts and legendary producer of Pulp Fiction, Django Unchained and Erin Brokovitch Stacey Sher will be the 2013 commencement speaker. In addition, alum Matthew Weiner, the executive producer of Mad Men will receive the 2013 Mary Pickford Alumni Award for distinguished alumni.

On the Towne

Mon, 08 Apr 2013 11:02:28 PDT

In addition to classroom work, internships and creating projects, part of the School of Cinematic Arts’ student education is the many guests the School brings in through the year. On April 2, legendary screenwriter Robert Towne made his final of three visits of the semester to discuss Shampoo (1975) and, among a host of subjects, touched on how research is key to making a standout script.

The Science of Fiction Coming to SCA

Thu, 04 Apr 2013 15:34:31 PDT

The USC School of Cinematic Arts emphasises a mixture of technology and storytelling in its curriculum across all six of its divisions. To explore this further, USC’s 5D Institute will host The Science of Fiction, a gathering of leading theorists, practitioners and students in the emerging field of “World Building.” Presented in partnership with Boeing and Warner Bros. Pictures, the festival will feature a live, interactive event where participants will use the narrative design principles of World Building to create a visionary, near-future world. The festival will launch on April 13 at USC’s Norris Theater.

From Vertigo to Avatar: Tom Sito Covers the History of Computer Graphics

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 10:10:58 PDT

Computer graphics are in the DNA of the cinematic arts. Tom Sito, Professor of Cinematic Practice for the John C. Hench Division of Digital Arts, has written the first book detailing the history of computer graphics as an art form and a workhorse for the entertainment industry. Moving Innovation: A History of Computer Animation is available on Amazon.com.

SCA Family Stories: Talia Myers

Fri, 12 Apr 2013 09:23:39 PDT

Each year, SCA students make countless shorts, music videos, TV pilots and even feature films. Making sure these projects are seen, however, can be a whole different ball game. For SCA student Talia Myers ’15, who recently had a surge of media attention after her YouTube video became a viral hit, the battle of getting one’s name out there just got a whole lot easier.

Myers recently sat down with SCA to discuss her viral YouTube video, “Kate Upton, Will You Go To Prom With Me?,” how her short time at SCA helped her make this project and her advice for students looking to get their work seen.

Trojan Vision Turns Fifteen

Tue, 02 Apr 2013 17:36:51 PDT

Students working at the USC School of CInematic Arts’ television station Trojan Vision have a simple rule. When you are doing your day-to-day activities, you’re a normal student. When you’re at the station, you’re a professional. On April 6 the award-winning station will be celebrating its fifteenth anniversary with a gathering at the station’s headquarters in the Robert Zemeckis center for Digital Arts.

The “Journey” Continues to GDC

Fri, 29 Mar 2013 14:02:07 PDT

Journey,a downloadable game from for the PlayStation format, won six awards, including Game of the Year, at the 13th Annual Game Developers Choice Awards on March 27th. Journey was developed and produced by thatgamecompany, a video game company run by alum Jenova Chen ‘06 and co-founded by Kellee Sanitago ‘06.

Summer Program: Applications Open

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 13:07:44 PDT

The School of Cinematic Arts Summer Program offers participants from around the world an opportunity to attend intensive and creatively demanding filmmaking classes taught by world-class faculty with the use of state-of-the-art equipment. Offering over thirty classes each summer, SCA Summer Program courses cover all aspects of filmmaking, including cinematography, directing, screenwriting, film and television business studies and computer/hand-drawn animation and gaming. Full semester classes condensed into six or seven weeks creates a total immersion experience unlike any other film school in the world. SCA Summer Program students have gone on to become producers at major companies/studios, independent filmmakers and even Emmy Award-winning documentarians.

USC Games Has Big Night at BAFTA Awards

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 17:13:36 PDT

London recently got a little warmer when several of the School of Cinematic Arts alumni indie gamers gathered for the 10th British Academy Games Awards on March 5. USC alumni games The Unfinished Swan and Journey both took home awards, including Outstanding Debut Game, Outstanding Game Innovation and the Game Design award.

ESCoNS @ SCA

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 14:26:48 PDT

Following its successful inaugural symposium in 2011, the Entertainment Software and Cognitive Neurotherapeutics Society (ESCoNS) is holding its second annual conference from March 15-17 at USC to advance the development of videogame therapy in diagnosing and combating mental disorders, as well as how to improve cognitive learning, brain capacity and function through interactive gameplay. Partnered with SCA’s Interactive Media and Games Division and the Game Innovation Lab, this year’s conference will bring together over 200 attendees in the tops of their fields to create scientific and medical breakthroughs through interactive games and media.

USC Games Number One

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 13:30:37 PDT

The University of Southern California has been named the number one game design school in North America by the Princeton Review for its graduate program. This ranking is shared by the USC School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) Interactive Media and Games Division and the USC Viterbi School of Engineering’s Department of Computer Science. USC has been ranked the number one school for game design for each year the Princeton Review has released the college ranking. Additionally, USC took the number 2 position for its undergraduate program.

A “Phantom” in SCA

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 12:29:43 PDT

When filmmakers join the School of Cinematic Arts faculty, they do anything but slow down. Many of SCA’s faculty, adjuncts and professors continue to be an active part of the industry as writers, directors, producers and everything in between. This commitment to the moving image was on display February 22nd when SCA faculty members Todd Robinson, John Watson and Pen Densham screened their newest collaboration, Phantom, at the Ray Stark Theatre. Following the screening, Phantom’s writer/director Robinson joined fellow SCA faculty members/Phantom producers Watson and Densham and Academy Award-nominated actor Ed Harris for a Q&A to discuss how the industry is becoming more open to small-budget films and that students shouldn’t wait until they graduate to start their own collaborations.

The Yellow Brick Road Leads to Norris

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 12:12:28 PST

Students of Leonard Maltin’s Theatrical Film Symposium (CTCS 466) were able to view an advance screening of Disney’s Oz the Great and Powerful in Norris Theatre last night, with a special Q&A with the film’s actors James Franco (Spider-Man, 127 Hours) and Zach Braff (Scrubs, Garden State). The two highlighted their experiences on the blockbuster’s set, the need for keeping a strong relationship and emotional arc in the midst of grand visual technology and the importance of having a strong, collaborative director at the helm.

Putting Games in the Name

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 13:57:59 PST

The School of Cinematic Arts’ Interactive Media Division has long been at the forefront of innovative gameplay. To emphasize its commitment to studying games and playable media in all forms, IMD will be renamed the Interactive Media and Games Division.

SCA Family Stories: Kylie Nicholson and Jack Morgan

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 15:06:01 PDT

The School of Cinematic Arts is proud to announce the new Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts + Practice as its newest B.A. To celebrate the new degree program, SCA Family Stories sat down with students Kylie Nicholson and Jack Morgan to talk about the new degree program, how students can prepare themselves for the new major and how collaboration is the key to success in the new program and the real world.

The Berlinale Talent Campus in 5D

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:24:28 PST

Having a globally diverse marketplace is a key component for groundbreaking collaboration. For mediamakers pushing the forefront of technology, the Berlinale Talent Campus (BTC) hosts just the place for this community of innovative thinkers. As such, Alex McDowell, Co-Founder and Creative Director of the 5D Institute at the School of Cinematic Arts, recently visited the BTC in Berlin to discuss World Building and its impact on technology’s use in design fields.

EA Visits USC

Sun, 03 Mar 2013 10:13:56 PST

Herb Farmer Technology Display at SCA

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 15:05:28 PST

Today’s moving images are created far differently than its origins: with green screens, motion capture technology, 3D visuals and more, the possibilities are endless. However, the history of cinema is captured not only through the images themselves, but through its advances in technology. To keep filmic history alive, the School of Cinematic Arts is currently showcasing the Herbert E. Farmer Motion Picture Technology Collection within the Hugh M. Hefner Exhibition Hall for viewers to see these pieces of cinematic history firsthand.

Chris Terrio For The Win

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 12:12:49 PST

At last night’s Oscars, School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) alum Chris Terrio took home the Oscar for Best Adapted Screenplay for Argo. The win epitomizes SCA’s mission to keep an engaging story at the forefront of filmmaking.

SCA Family Stories: Max Taxe

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 09:32:54 PST

Students in the School of Cinematic Arts’ Writing for Screen and Television program are told right off the bat that a career in Hollywood is a marathon, not a sprint. However, for alumni like Max Taxe ’11, their career path could get jump-started more quickly than anticipated when their work receives attention early on.

SCA recently sat down with Taxe to discuss his screenplay Goodbye, Felix Chester, which made the 2012 Black List, his time at SCA and his advice for budding screenwriters.

Trojans at the MPSE Awards

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 09:36:20 PST

School of Cinematic Arts students strive to make their projects at the industry-standard level, and that dedication shows. SCA is known for its ranks of writers, directors, producers, video game designers and editors, but one of its best kept secrets is the caliber of sound editors who graduate from the School every year.

On February 17th, the Motion Picture Sound Editors (MPSE) hosted the Golden Reel Awards in downtown Los Angeles to recognize outstanding works by student and professional filmmakers in the field of sound design. Of the eight student films up for the Verna Fields Award in Sound Editing for Student Filmmakers, SCA held three nominations. Two days prior, the SCA Sound Department hosted an event to screen each student film nominated for the award.

School of Cinematic Arts Oscar Noms!

Thu, 21 Feb 2013 11:19:03 PST

Congrats to the SCA alumni nominated for Oscars!

USC Cinematic Arts Announces Bachelor of Arts in Media Arts and Practice

Fri, 15 Feb 2013 13:46:53 PST

The USC School of Cinematic Arts is always on the cutting edge of the digital marketplace and digital technology. In this vein the School is proud to announce a new degree program, the B.A. in Media Arts + Practice.

Jim Gianopulos Joins Board of Councilors

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 15:25:27 PST

Jim Gianopulos, Chairman and CEO of Twentieth Century Fox Film, has joined the prestigious USC School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) Board of Councilors. The Board of Councilors takes a leadership role in the School’s overall planning and development as well as supports its fundraising efforts.

Thatgamecompany’s Journey Sweeps Interactive D.I.C.E. Awards

Thu, 14 Feb 2013 13:06:39 PST

The Interactive Media Division (IMD) at the USC School of Cinematic Arts is known for bringing an unparalleled level of artistry and innovation to video game design. thatgamecompany, which was co-founded by alumni Jenova Chen ‘06 and Kellee Santiago ‘06 exemplifies this approach, with highly-artistic games Cloud, flOw, Flower and, most recently, Journey. On February 16th, Journey was the big winner at the D.I.C.E (Design, Innovate, Communicate, Entertain) Awards, which are presented annually by the not-for-profit Academy of Interactive Arts and Sciences (AIAS) to honor outstanding achievements in interactive art form. Journey was the Awards’ most recognized game, with eight wins: Game of the Year, Outstanding Innovation in Gaming, Outstanding Innovation in Art Direction, Outstanding Achievement in Original Music Composition, Outstanding Achievement in Sound Design, Casual Game of the Year, Outstanding Achievement in Online Gameplay and Outstanding Achievement in Game Direction.

Producer Andy Friendly Makes Major Donation to SCA

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 10:06:26 PST

The USC School of Cinematic Arts is fortunate to have a strong roster of alumni who are eager to give back. Among them are SCA alumnus, producer and executive Andy Friendly ‘73 and his wife, actress Pat Crowley, who have created an endowment to help students who are struggling to complete their education. In January, Friendly augmented his existing gift to the School of Cinematic Arts with an additional $50,000 and renamed the fund the Pat Crowley and Andy Friendly Endowed Fund for Student Support.

USC has Two Options: be “Funny or Die”

Fri, 08 Feb 2013 13:26:52 PST

At the School of Cinematic Arts, students are taught to take the study of the moving image seriously, and that includes studying comedy. As a way of providing students with hands-on experience in creating online video content, SCA has teamed up with Funny Or Die, the award-winning, top destination for comedy on the web, for a two-day workshop. Running this Friday and Saturday, February 8-9 at USC’s Robert Zemeckis Center for Digital Arts and in the SCA Complex, students will get the chance to prove just how funny they can be.

Bryan Singer Shakes Up Critical Studies

Thu, 07 Feb 2013 14:25:27 PST

From George Lucas and Steven Spielberg to Sumner Redstone to Jeffrey Katzenberg and Ray Stark, the School of Cinematic Arts’ (SCA) foundation has literally been built through the names of its friends and alumni. Now filmmaker Bryan Singer ’89 joins the ranks of these entertainment industry powerhouses with a major donation to the School, a $5 million gift to name the Critical Studies division, from which Singer received his BA. The Bryan Singer Division of Critical Studies will be the first USC School of Cinematic Arts division named for one of its alumni.

Redstone Production Building Opens with a Bang

Wed, 06 Feb 2013 12:23:30 PST

Legendary entertainment industry executive Sumner Redstone has named the Sumner M. Redstone Production Building housing two soundstages at the USC School Cinematic Arts (SCA). On February 5th the School hosted a gala reception in his honor attended by filmmakers George Lucas and Steven Spielberg, USC President C. L. Max Nikias, Chairman of the SCA Board of Councilors Frank Price, School of Cinematic Arts Dean Elizabeth M. Daley, and entertainment industry titans Brad Grey, Brian Grazer, Jim Wiatt, Les Moonves and Bob Evans.

SoCal Meets Beijing

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 13:33:57 PST

From writing division professors visiting Russia to IML’s relationship with Effat University in Saudi Arabia and the global outreach of the American Film Showcase, The School of Cinematic Arts has made incredible strides in the realm of international relations. Students from around the globe study at SCA, with one of the largest populations originating from China. As one of SCA’s leading professors interested in both continuing and expanding this discussion between SCA and its international outreach, Associate Professor of Practice Jason E. Squire visited Beijing over winter break for various events and honors.

Fruitvale Sweeps Sundance

Mon, 04 Feb 2013 09:41:08 PST

Graduates of the USC School of Cinematic Arts (SCA) have a reputation for sticking together after they graduate. Fruitvale, the Grand Jury and Audience Award Winner at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, is a prime example of this practice, with fourteen USC graduates on the crew, four of whom met during the production of an SCA student film. Fruitvale was written and directed by SCA alum Ryan Coogler ‘11, with seven other Trojans who either attended or graduated from three different schools in key creative roles.

USC Has Record Year at Sundance Film Festival

Tue, 12 Feb 2013 10:58:04 PST

A record twenty-one films showcasing SCA talent screened at this year’s Sundance Film Festival and its sister festival, Slamdance. The festival launched on January 17th and ended last weekend with an awards ceremony highlighting standouts that resonated with critics and audiences. To support the alumni, students and friends of the School who visited Park City this year, SCA hosted two events, a filmmaker breakfast and party, at the Riverhorse Tavern on Main Street.

Sumner Redstone Makes Major Donation to SCA

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 16:15:23 PST

Sumner Redstone has changed the face of the entertainment industry. His leadership at Viacom and CBS will be studied by students of the moving image and the entertainment industry for generations to come. Students at the USC School of Cinematic Arts will now be able to study Redstone’s legacy in a building named in his honor. Redstone has made a $10 million gift to the School to name the Sumner M. Redstone Production Building, part of its expansive new Cinematic Arts Complex.

Sundance Blog 2013

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 11:55:36 PST

Check out the newset blog posts from USC Students and Alumni! sundance.usc.edu

USC Cinema at the Golden Globes

Thu, 17 Jan 2013 14:12:28 PST

At the 2013 Golden Globes award on January 13th, four USC alumni’s films were honored for the categories of Best Drama, Best Series: Musical or Comedy, andBest Miniseries or Movie.

Mary Sweeney Named Chairman of Film Independent

Thu, 14 Mar 2013 14:05:20 PDT

USC Cinema Professor Mary Sweeney, the current Dino and Martha De Laurentiis Endowed Professor who teaches in the Writing Division at the USC School of Cinematic Arts, has been elected to the position of sitting Chair of Film Independent. Sweeney, who teaches Graduate Writing Thesis and Dreams, The Brain and Storytelling at SCA, is known for her work on The Straight Story and the indie film Baraboo.

Project Holodeck in Dublin

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 11:44:14 PST

Projects from USC Cinema’s Interactive Media Division are often very ambitious. For a project to stand out in the competitive world of IMD, they need to step up in a big way. USC video game Project Holodeck attempts this by taking the science fiction staple of Star Trek’s Starship Enterprise’s Holodeck and making it a reality. This December, the Project Holodeck team presented their project at GAME: The Future of Play, a conference on experimental and future game forms, at Trinity College in Dublin, Ireland.

USC Cinema Oscar Nominations

Mon, 14 Jan 2013 09:38:02 PST

The USC School of Cinematic Arts would like to congratulate the following alumni for were nominated for Academy Awards!

SCA Family Stories: Chanel Summers

Fri, 21 Dec 2012 11:24:27 PST

One of the biggest draws for students considering the USC School of Cinematic Arts is the top-rate faculty. The Interactive Media Division is no exception to this. SCA Family Stories sat down with Chanel Summers, a pioneer in the field of audio design for games, to talk about her role as an educator, what students can do to prepare themselves for the real world and how in the world of videogames, and that innovation usually comes from non-traditional people who explore unorthodox paths.

USC Games Hosts Demo Day

Wed, 19 Dec 2012 09:49:28 PST

On December 12th, The School of Cinematic Arts’ Interactive Media Division combined forces with SCA’s Student Industry Relations and Viterbi’s School of Engineering to create Demo Day

The Taste of Originality

Fri, 14 Dec 2012 09:45:03 PST

Thanks to Dr. Pepper, students are finding themselves hyped up and energetic, but that’s not because of the soft drink. Two SCA students, Katherine Duffy and Xavier Burgin ‘15, were recently awarded tuition scholarships through the 2012 Dr. Pepper Tuition Giveaway for demonstrating within sixty seconds how they plan to change the world.

Feige @ SCA

Fri, 07 Dec 2012 10:38:53 PST

Ten years ago, if a studio executive had proposed setting up an entire slate of superhero movies as origin stories for a single film that would bring all of these household names together, they would have been laughed at. Kevin Feige, a USC School of Cinematic Arts alum and President of Marvel Studios, accomplished just this with The Avengers. On November 27, Feige visited Jason E. Squire’s Art and Industry of the Theatrical Film course as the final guest speaker of the semester to explain his role as a creative producer.

The Posters of the USC School of Cinematic Arts

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 11:00:22 PST

If you’re heading to Dean Daley’s office, be sure to turn left on Sunset Boulevard; if you’re Out of Africa, you’ve gone the wrong way. Anyone trying to navigate the labyrinth of the School of Cinematic Arts knows that a helpful way to get around is to follow the posters. SCA’s new complex is the home of an impressive poster collection which spans continents, genres and time periods. More than just decoration or road signs, these posters help to keep film history alive and as an everyday reminder of the art form’s roots.

Whedon @ SCA

Wed, 28 Nov 2012 13:16:18 PST

Avengers writer and director Joss Whedon is known as one of the prolific television showrunners in history. His credits include Buffy the Vampire Slayer, Firefly, Dollhouse and many more. This semester, Jason E. Squire’s Art and Industry of the Theatrical Film (CTPR 386) class analyzed Whedon’s 2012 film The Avengers from Marvel Studios. On November 20^th, Whedon visited the class and told the students that he had to adjust his style to work in feature films.

Hench-DADA Unveils a “Blue Sky”

Mon, 26 Nov 2012 10:14:02 PST

On most projects that come out of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, the words psychedelic, Bollywood and English garden usually aren’t the starting point. However, when Associate Professor Michael Patterson and adjunct faculty Candace Reckinger teamed up with a group of their animation students and Electric Light Orchestra musician Jeff Lynne to create a video for the song Mr. Blue Sky, the combination of these ideas helped to create something truly unique.

The Guardians Rise in Norris

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 15:59:18 PST

At the USC School of Cinematic Arts’ John C. Hench Division of Animation and Digital Arts, students are encouraged to create worlds where anything is possible. They got a taste of how this can be done with an advanced screening of DreamWorks Animation’s new film Rise of the Guardians, in which an unlikely team consisting of Jack Frost, Santa Claus, the Tooth Fairy and the Easter Bunny band together to save the holidays.

SCA Family Stories: David Litwin

Mon, 19 Nov 2012 10:47:36 PST

Like many recent graduates of the USC School of Cinematic Arts, after graduation, David Litwin ‘10 found himself asking the question, “What’s next?” Following up on a bit of inspiration from his days in the Production Division, Litwin designed and founded Cinely, a website that allows people in the entertainment industry to share their work and find each other for collaboration.

SCA Family Stories recently asked Litwin what exactly cinely.com is, how the site helps to faciliate both current and future film collaborations and advice for students looking into the entrepreneurial route.

Check out Cinely at www.cinely.com.

Remote Master Class from Skywalker Sound

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 10:23:57 PST

Technology is changing every aspect of the entertainment industry. On November 2nd, the USC School of Cinematic Arts’ Sound Department, and John C. Hench Division of Animation and Digital Arts' Professor Richard Weinberg took a major leap forward in remote collaboration when they hosted a master class with Oscar-winning sound designer Randy Thom. Unlike other classes at the School, Thom taught the class remotely from Skywalker Ranch in northern California.

SCA Student Lands Women in Technology Award

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 10:55:03 PST

There are very few places that math and photography come together. One of them is the USC School of Cinematic Arts’ Institute for Multimedia Literacy (IML). For sophomore Kylie Nicholson, the two blended well enough to warrant scholarship attention. Nicholson, a student in SCA’s IML program, was awarded a 2012 scholarship through the Association for Women in Technology in recognition of her work in combining digital photography and math.

Kortschak Family Honored

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 09:31:28 PST

One of the most prestigious honors that can be awarded to a professor in academia is the endowed chair. On November 7th, USC celebrated the installation of Michael Taylor as the Kortschak Family Endowed Division Chair in Film and Television Production. The event was attended by Walter, Marcia, Andrew and Sarah Kortschak, USC President C. L. Max Nikias and USC First Lady Niki Nikias, Dean Elizabeth M. Daley, newly installed Chair Michael Taylor and over one hundred faculty, staff and supporters of the School.

ETC in 3D

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 10:55:48 PST

3D revolutionized Hollywood. Ever since Avatar (produced by SCA alum Jon Landau) took the technology to the next level of refinement and accessibility, companies across the entertainment industry have been looking for the next big thing when it comes to 3D technology. Earlier in October, SCA’s Entertainment Technology Center (ETC) helped a team from the Moving Pictures Expert Group (MPEG) test a new 3DTV delivery system, for which the ETC provided facilities and participants to assist with MPEG’s test.

Students “Graced” by Film Awards

Fri, 16 Nov 2012 10:56:48 PST

During her lifetime, Princess Grace of Monaco was committed to helping emerging artists realize their career goals. This year, two USC School of Cinematic Arts students, Chao Thao and Javier Barboza, joined the ranks of Princess Grace Foundation Award Winners and will continue her legacy of supporting young artists.

“Unfinished Swan” Lands at Sony

Fri, 09 Nov 2012 09:01:34 PST

The Unfinished Swanis one of the most recent games from USC’s Interactive Media Division to make a splash in the commercial world. In the game, players are dropped into an all-white world and equipped with paintballs to shoot at the walls. As the paint splatters on the world, the geometry is revealed and the player can navigate the landscape.

New Facebook game prepares students for college

Thu, 01 Nov 2012 13:51:41 PDT

With college application season under way for millions of U.S. high school students, USC researchers on Oct. 29 launched a free Facebook game to help underserved students, often the first in their families to aspire to college, navigate the complicated process of applying for college and financial aid.

Larry Auerbach Makes Major Gift for Finishing Funds

Tue, 30 Oct 2012 13:43:22 PDT

The Office of Student Industry Relations at the USC School of Cinematic Arts is one of the most respected and unique groups of professionals on the entire USC campus. It’s not surprising that Its head, Associate Dean Larry Auerbach, is one of its most respected and unique people at the School. After a nearly fifty year career as an agent in the motion picture, television and live entertainment business at the William Morris Agency, Auerbach came to USC twenty years ago to help students bridge the gap between school and one of the toughest industries in the world.

Combiform “Connects” with SIGGRAPH Awards

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 10:17:16 PDT

Games are an important part of pop culture, an important part of the entertainment industry and an important part of the curriculum of the USC School of Cinematic Arts. If Combiform lead designer/IMD student Edmond Yee has anything to say about it, in the future, they will be a major way in which people interact. This year, at the 2012 SIGGRAPH Convention, Combiform was honored with the Best Demonstration in Emerging Technology Award for its unique approach to socializing, using video games

SCA Wins at IndieCade

Wed, 24 Oct 2012 13:55:36 PDT

In the video game world, there’s no greater summit for independent video games than the IndieCade Festival, which honors exemplary up-and-coming video games within the independent game design community. On October 4th, the USC School of Cinematic Arts took home two victories at IndieCade, with Reality Ends Here earning the Impact Award and SCA alum Davey Wreden’s The Stanley Parable winning the Special Recognition Award.

Brandon Tartikoff Honored at USC

Mon, 22 Oct 2012 10:35:16 PDT

The late television executive Brandon Tartikoff’s work has done more to define NBC, the 1980s and American pop culture than any other executive in television history. At NBC and Paramount, Tartikoff was responsible for bringing Cheers, Seinfeld, The Fresh Prince of Bel-Air, Law and Order, The Cosby Show, Hill Street Blues, The A-Team, Miami Vice, Forrest Gump and many others to the screen. On October 18^th, the School of Cinematic Arts hosted the Dedication of the Brandon Tartikoff Legacy Collection, a collection of personal memos, memorabilia and other items to honor his career and the permanent placement of Brandon’s legacy at USC.

SCA Has a “Paint Party”

Tue, 16 Oct 2012 16:55:48 PDT

Telling stories with the moving image doesn’t happen in a vacuum. Neither does running a major school at a research university that happens to be in the heart of one of Los Angeles’ most storied communities. Every year, the School of Cinematic Arts hosts events to reach out to the South Los Angeles community.

Students "Mad" for Television Symposium

Wed, 10 Oct 2012 13:43:59 PDT

Few shows, particularly those outside of the arena of the main television networks, have made quite the impact that Mad Men has made on modern television series. Its historical authenticity and steamy plotlines give the show a unique combination of high ratings and critical acclaim. On October 8th, Television Symposium delighted its students by featuring a high-profile panel of guests from Mad Men, with a Q&A moderated by Professor Howard Rosenberg. The main takeaway message? Working in television is not for the faint of heart.

Moonves @ SCA

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 12:05:07 PDT

If there were a Mount Rushmore of legendary television executives, Les Moonves would certainly be front and center. The President and CEO of CBS is known for putting hit shows like Survivor, CSI and Showtime’s Homeland on the air, but he’s also known for not pulling punches in interviews. On October 3rd, the outspoken executive visited the School of Cinematic Arts as a guest of Student Industry Relations and answered questions in a Q and A hosted by the Larry Auerbach Chair at USC, Larry Auerbach.

August in October

Fri, 05 Oct 2012 09:43:54 PDT

Summer may be over, but August has returned to the School of Cinematic Arts. On October 2, students gathered in the Ray Stark Family Theatre for a special 3D screening of Frankenweenie, followed by a discussion with the film’s screenwriter and USC alum, John August. The event, with the Q&A moderated by Writing Professor Howard Rodman, was hosted by Writing Presents..., an SCA Writing Division speaker series aimed at bringing top directors and screenwriters to SCA to discuss their work within the industry.

SCA “Shoots It” at The Grove

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 15:59:37 PDT

In real estate, it is all about “location, location, location.” Last night at The Grove, this mantra applied to filmmaking as three SCA student teams, finalists in “Shoot it at The Grove” competition, unveiled their 60-second short films in an outdoor screening hosted by Rick J. Caruso, Founder and CEO of Caruso Affiliated.

Trojans in Music City

Wed, 03 Oct 2012 10:06:34 PDT

ABC’s new show Nashville tells the story of an aging country singer who has to navigate a record company that’s lost their faith in her, a new album that won’t sell and an up-and-coming starlet who is trying to steal her fire - and her band. In Professor Howard Rosenberg’s Television Symposium class on October 1st, executive producer/director and School of Cinematic Arts alum R.J. Cutler visited with students and told them that, although Nashville is set in a glitzy world, the key to making it work was to keep it authentic.

Game Therapy

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 10:12:56 PDT

As games are becoming more proactive than ever before in their mission to get everyone in motion, the School of Cinematic Arts and the Keck School of Medicine are making sure that everyone can be included. On September 24, the Creative Media and Behavioral Health Center (CM&BHC) hosted a showcase for their cutting-edge work of combining exercise-based physical therapy with engaging, interactive experiences as part of an event series through the USC Center for Interactive Media Technologies in Healthcare (CIMTH).

SCA Signs Agreement with Effat University

Wed, 26 Sep 2012 15:31:31 PDT

The USC School of Cinematic Arts and Effat University, in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, have entered into an agreement to collaborate in the establishment and development of a world-class academic program in Media & Digital Production (MDP).

USC Brings Home Two Emmys

Mon, 01 Oct 2012 10:55:40 PDT

A USC alum has been nominated for an Emmy Award every year since 1973. This year exceeded expectations with twenty-five nominations. Jay Roach ‘86 and Danny Strong ‘96 won for Outstanding Miniseries or Movie, for Game Change the HBO biopic about the 2008 presidential election; with Strong also winning the Outstanding Writing for a Miniseries, Movie or a Dramatic Special award for the same project.

Ron Meyer Delivers “Universal” Truth

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 14:47:58 PDT

Ron Meyer isn’t afraid to tell the truth. When he came to the Ray Stark Theatre at the USC School of Cinematic Arts as a guest of Student Industry Relations, he spoke with his typical candor and enthusiasm. He also discussed the importance of being honest, even when it hurts.

Wixon @ SCA

Wed, 19 Sep 2012 15:38:29 PDT

If you are reading this sentence on a computer, a tablet or a mobile phone, chances are, the new Microsoft Endowed Professor at the USC School of Cinematic Arts’ Interactive Media Division, Dennis Wixon, had something to do with the creation and implementation of your experience. Wixon has designed intuitive interfaces for keyboards, XBOX controllers, online game tutorials and many other devices, and on Tuesday, September 19th, he added a new chapter to his extensive biography by joining the USC School of Cinematic Arts as the Microsoft Endowed Professor.

SCA Network Members Stay in the Loop

Tue, 18 Sep 2012 15:19:42 PDT

Guests have travelled forward in time to catch the much-anticipated thriller Looper before its release date. Or, they may have simply been members of the SCA Network, which hosted the film on September 16 in Norris Auditorium.

SCA Family Stories: Sheila Sofian

Mon, 17 Sep 2012 12:17:12 PDT

Science and art are often put at opposite sides of the spectrum with little overlap in academia. However, starting this year, students can now explore both interests in a single minor with the Minor in Science Visualization offered by the John C. Hench Division of Animation and Digital Arts.

The Perks of Being a Trojan

Thu, 13 Sep 2012 13:28:55 PDT

“An introvert freshman is taken under the wings of two seniors who welcome him to the real world,” sounds like a typical first year at the School of Cinematic Arts. It’s also the logline for alum Stephen Chbosky’s ‘92 new film The Perks of Being a Wallflower.

Playstation @ SCA

Thu, 06 Sep 2012 12:24:44 PDT

Game design has become a pervasive part of the entertainment industry, and on September 12th and 13th, Sony Computer Education America will be holding two days of events, including an talk from CEO Jack Tretton, which will further the reaches of the game industry and solidify the relationship between PlayStation and USC.

SCA Family Stories: Josh Eiserike

Fri, 31 Aug 2012 12:24:34 PDT

Josh Eiserike came to the School of Cinematic Arts without much of a plan. A passionate writer and cartoonist, Josh enrolled in the Production Division. Through his time, Josh found himself writing, directing, producing and basically doing everything that needed to be done.

SCA Family Stories: Kenny Martin

Thu, 16 Aug 2012 13:58:54 PDT

Writing for film and television takes a great deal of dedication, endless rewriting and, in the case of current SCA student Kenny Martin, a few good laughs.

SCA recently sat down with Kenny Martin to discuss his work as a screenwriting student, his passion to explore writing comedy for television and his advice for students joining the SCA family this fall.

Herb and Bea Farmer Foundation Honored

Tue, 04 Sep 2012 13:08:17 PDT

The USC School of Cinematic Arts emphasizes two integral components of the moving image: story and technology. When the two seamlessly blend together, the result can be a masterpiece. For Herb Farmer, the mission of ensuring and maintaining the technological instruments of film, from its early beginnings to the modern day state-of-the-art, has created a true legacy through an extensive collection that showcases the history of technology in making movie magic.

Roach @ SCA

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 14:37:04 PDT

Egomaniacs pushing to get their way. Financiers making key decisions from the shadows. People overcoming unbelievable obstacles to achieve their vision. Students at the USC School of Cinematic Arts have certainly come across these scenarios, and these ideas serve as the themes of alumnus/director Jay Roach’s new film, The Campaign. At the SCA screening of The Campaign on August 6th, Roach commented on earning his stripes by working with actors who create their own characters.

Humanitas Prize Announced

Thu, 02 Aug 2012 13:58:19 PDT

Every year, students at the USC School of Cinematic Arts use the moving image to demonstrate the endless experiences, joys, trials and tribulations that are doubtlessly a part of life. From animation, to scholarly work, to narrative films, documentary and even cutting-edge interactive experiences, the stories and experiences created at the School explore just about every facet of what it means to be human. This year, three alumni are nominated for Humanitas Prizes, which celebrate stories that uplift the soul. They include Caitlin Parrish, who won for her television pilot for Painkiller, and Sheldon Candis and Justin Wilson for the script to their film LUV, which premiered at the Sundance Film Festival earlier this year.

Puzzlejuice on a Roll

Wed, 01 Aug 2012 15:53:31 PDT

Puzzlejuice is pitched as a “game that will punch your brain in the face.” The game was designed by recent SCA alum Asher Vollmer and has been racking up accolades since it was released in January of this year. Puzzlejuice combines block sorting, word spelling, and color matching in a way that tests the brain’s ability to be pulled stretches the brain in three different directions simultaneously.

DreamWorks @ SCA

Tue, 07 Aug 2012 15:40:17 PDT

On July 31st, The USC School of Cinematic Arts hosted the dedication of the “DreamWorlds Behind the Scenes: Production Art from DreamWorks Animation” exhibit in the Mary Pickford Lobby, which featured DWA CEO Jeffrey Katzenberg and other members of DreamWorks Animation’s creative, executive and outreach teams.

SCA Family Stories: Jess Dang

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 12:37:41 PDT

With SCA’s diverse range of opportunities and concentrations for students to explore, it is merely a question of each student finding their particular passion. Be it drama, romance, comedy, avant-garde or anything in between, each SCA student is well equipped to find their niche.

For SCA MFA Production alum Jess Dang, this road led her talents toward documentary filmmaking. Dang recently sat down with SCA to discuss her film Made By Me, the nature of documentary filmmaking and advice for students who are interested in the doc route.

SCA Number One

Thu, 26 Jul 2012 16:10:58 PDT

The USC School of Cinematic Arts was named the number one film school in the world by The Hollywood Reporter. The trade magazine credited the School with being firmly rooted in the entertainment industry and for having an eye for the technology and techniques of modern media making.

SCA Family Stories: Bart Fisher

Thu, 19 Jul 2012 16:51:42 PDT

With the rate of technology expanding faster than ever, Internet media content can now literally fit in the palm of your hand. For many filmmakers, part of their success has been their ability to adapt to the ins and outs of a new, Internet-based society while still meeting the timeless need for captivating storytelling.

MFA Production alum Bart Fisher recently sat down with SCA to discuss his new project with Hallmark Channel, How to Fall in Love, premiering on July 21 at 9pm ET/PT, 8C on Hallmark Channel, as well as the ways in which he has adjusted his filmmaking techniques to fit the ever-evolving digital age.

Stone @ SCA

Tue, 17 Jul 2012 15:13:32 PDT

Oliver Stone needs no introduction at the School of Cinematic Arts. Few filmmakers have tackled controversial contemporary issues the way that world-renowned director, writer and producer Oliver Stone has done. With films like Platoon (1986) and Born on the Fourth of July (1989), On July 13th, the visionary filmmaker came to the School of Cinematic Arts to speak to students about his new film Savages. He discussed the process of adapting a beloved novel.

Rose Family Foundation Fellowship Established at SCA

Fri, 06 Jul 2012 14:00:43 PDT

The Interactive Media Division at the USC School of Cinematic Arts has the backing and attention of many top video game companies and personalities. This July, Activision Blizzard executive George Rose joins their ranks by establishing the Rose Family Foundation Fellowship for Interactive Entertainment.

SCA “Marvels” at New Exhibition

Tue, 10 Jul 2012 10:20:15 PDT

Thor’s hammer. Captain America’s shield. Hawkeye’s bow. After The Avengers, characters like Iron Man, Captain America, Hawkeye and Black Widow have become as much a part of the fabric of pop culture as any other cinematic creation in history. The USC School of Cinematic Arts is currently hosting a number of production stills, storyboards and other memorabilia in the Hugh M. Hefner Exhibition Hall until the end of July.

The Duke @ SCA

Fri, 22 Jun 2012 13:38:13 PDT

On June 20th, the USC School of Cinematic Arts dedicated the Wayne Collection which was curated by John Wayne’s late son Michael, and donated by Michael’s widow Gretchen Wayne. The collection, comprised of movie posters, memorabilia, awards and personal correspondence, is on permanent exhibition within the SCA complex.

Dennis Wixon “Interfaces” with IMD

Thu, 07 Jun 2012 18:14:41 PDT

Ranked the number one game design school in North America by the Princeton Review and GamerPro Media for the third year running, USC’s School of Cinematic Arts’ Interactive Media Division is home to renowned faculty and staff. Coming this fall, IMD will add another exemplary member to its ranks in the form of user research pioneer Dennis Wixon, who will serve as the Microsoft Endowed Professor.

Jon M. Chu and Hieu Ho Launch DS2DIO

Mon, 04 Jun 2012 09:09:42 PDT

It’s impossible to talk about School of Cinematic Arts alumni Jon M. Chu ‘03 and Hieu Ho ‘07 without talking about dance. This summer, the two partners will be teaming up with Google to create a new YouTube original channel, DS2DIO (pronounced D-Studio).

Bringing “Reality” to the Student Oscars

Wed, 23 May 2012 11:41:24 PDT

The USC School of Cinematic Arts has had a long tradition of winning student Academy Awards. This year, Amanda Tasse, John C. Hench Division of Animation and Digital Arts alumna and current Ph. D. student of the Interdivisional Media Arts and Practices, kept the tradition alive by winning in the “Best Alternative” category for her stereoscopic 3D film "The Reality Clock". The film was funded in part by a grant from the Sloan Foundation.