What makes a good short film

 

When you write a short film, think of it as if you’re telling a joke.  “a duck walks into a bar and orders a rum and coke.”  Just as all elements of a joke support the punch line, so should every element of your story support it’s structure – nothing is extraneous; every element leads to an inevitable, yet surprising, conclusion.

When you create a story, you must let the audience know the reality of your story.  “When a joke starts like that, no says its ridiculous, they accept it because its the first thing they are told.  You understand the reality of that world from the start.

Here are some rules to writing a good short film, I know creatives don’t like rules, in fact you’ll probably want to break them and that’s fine if you do, but you need to know them and understand first

Keep it simple

·         Simple single situations
·         One conflict that intensifies
·         A single memorable moment (an adrenaline moment)
·         Slices of life
·         Demonstrations of personality

 

Create conflict

Conflict = drama.  3 types of Conflict
 ·         Character vs character
 ·         Character vs enviroment
 ·         Character vs self

Story is king

Every production element in a film is purposefully designed for the good of the story.  It is through your story that your characters are revealed and that you communicate with your audience.  Without story all you have is technique.  An audience might forgive poor technique, but they will never forgive poor story.

 Know your concept, theme or meaning

This is not the premise or plot of the piece, it is the broader idea the underlying meaning. 

 Create memorable character

An audience loves a good character who intrigues or enchants them.

 Show, don’t tell

The golden rule. Always strive for the most visual way to tell your story.  Don’t have someone say “he’s a miserable old git” show he’s a miserable old git.

 Know your ending

If you write without destination you sure as hell won’t reach it

 Entertain and respect your audience

Intrigue your audience. Take them on a journey that exceeds their expectations and leave them somewhere that made their trip worthwhile. 









For more information along the same lines check out the book
"ideas for the animated short"