The Art of Short Films

Films nowadays have been produced for various kinds of reasons. While there are some films which aim to provide mere entertainment, there are others that try pushing beyond the conventional, seeking to bring forward significant themes or messages to the viewing audience. Producing a film always comes with vast challenges. However, making a short film presents far more difficulties than what can be imagined.  

Short films usually act as a springboard for most new filmmakers, which serve them with the opportunity to practise their craft. The success of the short film may then determine the capability of the filmmaker and possibility of a move into feature-length productions. Producing a short film provides aspiring filmmakers with the grand challenge of telling a good story – arguably the most important aspect of filmmaking – without the luxury of resources, high budgets, and the ability to express every detail under the length of 10 to 20 minutes. It is certainly no easy feat to make a short film under such constraints, but that does not imply that a short film should be compromised by the difficulties set. Everyone has a story to tell, and a well-told story is the one element that can help shape the entire film; the cast, cinematography and other visual and technical effects applied throughout the film will then further add on to create the overall viewing experience.  

To appreciate short films, keep in mind of the restrictions that might have existed in the filmmaking process, and concentrate on the vital elements that matter which can bring the film to life. Regardless of short films or feature films, all aspiring filmmakers will like to deliver their messages across through the same kind of medium – film, and hope to find an audience who will appreciate what they are trying to express. A short film is really a feature-length film condensed into a fraction of the time and produced at a fraction of the cost. It is often pleasant and amazing to watch short films that not only strives to fulfill these requirements, but sets out to achieve even more – breaking away from the limitations to develop characters that the audience can relate to, and even add their personal touches and their own voices, as they offer an alternate look into the world around them.  

Written by: Ang Wei Chong