This thesis involves a film-based installation that explores the notion of authorship in cinema. Participants are invited to access and combine short video clips through an interactive device that facilitates the creation of individualized films. Combining elements of expanded cinema, customized editing software, and crowdsourced video, The I in Optics challenges the conventional hierarchy and compartmentalization of film production, along with the presumed passivity of the audience. My exhibition empowers spectators to take on the role of filmic experimentation regardless of their training or knowledge; the result will be an archive of films that demonstrates the agency and creativity of individuals who can become filmmakers if provided the opportunity. In recruiting a wide variety of participants to engage with my customized software, what will ultimately be gleaned from this exhibition is the different ways users cull their creativity from the same set of tools and clips.