Think of a movie or television show to turn into a finger puppet home movie, such as “Star Wars” or “American Idol.” Use funny experiences from your own life to create a home movie with you as the starring finger puppet. Re-enact serious television dramas and movies, because it will be impossible not to laugh at something as funny as a finger puppet trying to be serious.
Write a script that includes dialogue and action for your finger puppet characters. Bring together famous characters from different shows such as using the Count from “Sesame Street” in a remake of the “Twilight” movie. Create a love square with Bella, Edward, Jacob and the Count. Consider putting sweet and harmless characters in opposite roles, such as using the Swedish chef from “The Muppet Show” in a role playing a bad boy who breaks girls’ hearts.
Create finger puppets that represent your favorite movie and television actors. Observe the physical characteristics of the famous actors you decide to use. Make a list of wardrobe and props to purchase at a craft store. Use googly eyes or markers to draw eyes, nose and mouth on the finger puppets. Create hair out of yarn, and make outfits from felt or paper. Apply skin-safe glue or skin adhesive to attach clothes, hair and other props to the finger puppets. Consider purchasing already made finger puppets. Party supply stores sell a variety of finger puppet party favors that could enhance your home movie.
Design a movie set using cardboard, construction paper, fabric or even toys. Draw different backgrounds for various scenes such as a forest, city or dark, starry night. Use a lamp with a dimmer to adjust the lighting. Experiment by using different colored light bulbs for a special effect. Add a disco ball to the light for a dancing scene, or place the finger puppets behind a sheet of paper for a shadow effect.
Practice recording with a portable camcorder with a tripod, a portable web-cam or laptop with a pre-installed web-cam. Maneuver the recording device so it has a wide shot of the movie set.
Incorporate sound effects by using pre-recorded sounds or recording your own sounds. Use the signature music from movie soundtracks and sitcoms as background music, or pick your own song to add to a scene.
Practice making your home movie with dress rehearsals. Record each dress rehearsal, and take notes to improve dialogue, wardrobe and lighting. Ask friends and/or family members for assistance with your project.
Record and save a live show of your finger puppet movie script that you present to friends and family members. Accept their constructive criticism and suggestions.