This hands-on studio course introduces filmmakers to FFmpeg, a powerful command-line tool for manipulating, processing, and reimagining video. Moving beyond traditional editing software, students will learn to use code-based workflows to create experimental visual effects, automate repetitive tasks, and engage with material characteristics of the medium of video. Through practical exercises and creative projects, students will explore glitch aesthetics, datamoshing, batch processing, automated subtitle generation, frame extraction and reassembly, color grading scripts, and generative video techniques. We'll demystify the command line interface and transform it into a creative laboratory where technical approaches blend with experimental video. You will be encouraged to use both your own video material as well as engaging critically and practically with video archives. We will cover the following topics: FFmpeg basics and command-line navigation, format conversion and compression, creative filtering and effects chains, temporal manipulation and frame processing, subtitle and caption workflows, batch automation and scripting, glitch techniques and intentional artifacts, generative and algorithmic video approaches. No prior coding experience required, just a willingness to think of video in a non-traditional way. Students will leave with a practical toolkit for independent video production, an expanded vocabulary of experimental techniques, and the confidence to automate workflows and create effects impossible in conventional editing software.