This section outlines the initial planning and rationale behind my Final Major Project, including my motivations, concept, and intended direction.
Candidate name: Eduarda Oliveira
Candidate number:
Pathway: Level 3 Extended Diploma in Creative Media, Production and Technology
Project title: THE ARCHIVE
Section 1:
RATIONALE
- I am passionate about this project because it focuses on Brazilian Jiu Jitsu, which is something I am personally connected to and see regularly. I find it interesting how the sport is often misunderstood from the outside.
- I have a strong understanding of BJJ through my environment, which allows me to recognise authentic moments and choose footage that accurately represents the sport. I also have experience in video editing and production, including using software like Adobe Premiere Pro, which will help me structure the documentary effectively.
- I have previously created content that involved storytelling and editing, but this project allows me to develop those skills further by focusing on documentary style filmmaking. It also connects to my interest in creating more professional, cinematic content rather than casual or social media-style videos.
- One of the main creative challenges I want to explore is telling a strong story using primarily found footage, rather than filming everything myself. This requires careful selection and editing to make the clips feel cohesive and meaningful. I want to improve my skills in pacing, sound design, and transitions.
- This project is relevant to my career aspirations because I am interested in media production,.This project will help me build a portfolio piece that demonstrates my ability to create meaningful, high-quality content using creative editing and narrative techniques.
Sections 2:
PROJECT CONCEPT
My project is a short documentary-style film that explores the reality of Brazilian Jiu Jitsu through found footage. It begins with a simple scene of someone opening a laptop, which transitions into a curated sequence of clips showing the contrast between how the sport is perceived and what it actually feels like. The main theme is repetition, struggle, and persistence, highlighting how progress is not always visible in the moment.
The aim of my project is to create a visually engaging and realistic portrayal of BJJ without relying on staged filming or narration-heavy storytelling.
To develop this project, I will research existing sports documentaries and found-footage storytelling, as well as analyse how platforms like YouTube present real training content. The project will be produced as a short video, as this format is best suited for visual storytelling and audience engagement.
My target audience is young people aged 16–30 who are interested in sport or media content. I will use editing software such as Adobe Premiere Pro, and the production process will include research, planning, sourcing footage, editing, and final evaluation.
Section 3:
EVALUATION
I will evaluate my project through weekly reflections, reviewing progress against my original aims and identifying improvements. I will document decisions and changes using written logs and screenshots. Audience feedback will help assess engagement. Working independently allows full creative control but may limit external input and perspectives.
Bibliography
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The Origins Of Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu (The Untold Story) – YouTube. [online] Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UiVyUQqkWro. [Accessed 18 Mar. 2026].
Chris Cross Jiu Jitsu (2026). The BJJ Lightweight Who Broke Heavyweights | Lachlan Giles. [online] YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PfLnXGP9wfk [Accessed 18 Mar. 2026].
FloGrappling (2025). The Return Of Tainan Dalpra | Full Documentary. [online] YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UbcXTsQ91A0 [Accessed 18 Mar. 2026].
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FloGrappling (2025). The Year Of Mica | FULL FILM | Mica Galvão’s Quest For The Super Grand Slam. [online] YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ueCLcXc_SHM [Accessed 18 Mar. 2026].
FloGrappling (2025). Behind The Scenes At FloGrappling HQ Before WNO 31 | WNO 31 Vlog Series. [online] YouTube. Available at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2fIpI_E-zY [Accessed 18 Mar. 2026].
StudioBinder. (2025). Documentary. [online] Available at: https://www.studiobinder.com/tag/documentary/.
Adobe.com. (2022). Edit video in Premiere Pro. [online] Available at: https://helpx.adobe.com/uk/premiere-pro/using/video-editing-basics.html.