Institutional Research into Short Films

Institutional research into short film

Short films are not usually publicised as much as Hollywood films, making it harder to hear about them. They are considered less known mainly because they are not in cinemas or in places where a normal length film is shown. However, a few years ago, short films were sometimes shown in cinema before the main film. For example, I went to see Frozen in a VUE cinema, and I was shown a short film called ‘Day and Night’ in-between the trailers but more recently they are less frequent, mainly as industries think you can find them all online. 

Production 

• Pitch videos show the directors ability and skill to film, such as a the films location is set to match the genre and time frame of the film, will make it more likely for invest to contribute money to produce the film. 
• Local councils will contribute to the making of a short film if it gives something in return such as a positive outlook on the local council. 
• Crowdfunding also helps to make a short film as final budget donations are usually going to re receive the same percentage for however much the film was sold for
• Funding will cover all meals for the days shooting, transportation for all crew and actors, the equipment to buy or rent, the props and production

Scheduling 

• Working out a suitable time frame for each scene at each location. Being able to predict the amount of time to film a certain scene at the precise location will provide a detailed time table to save valuable time and to be the most efficient. This will also help work out how much it may cost you by budgeting 
• Budgeting includes everything that seems essential even though it might not be the total cost. For example, including the entire budget for all actors, an actress might be able to act for free which would leave more money. Call sheets help show the daily representation of all the work carried out in scheduling 
• Call Sheets are important as they have all the contact information of the people acting that day and the roles they will be playing which normally include: Contact numbers, who is in each shot, what scene is being filmed, directions of locations 

Distribution 

• When distributing a short film, you have to think who the film is aimed towards. Most short films are watched by people who really enjoy short films
• The age of the audience needs to be kept in mind as a short film that shows nudity or swearing might not be appropriate for a young audience but a cartoon short film might not be viewed by an older audience 
• a selective audience such as teenagers might show a wider cultural capital of a short film 

Promoting and Marketing a Short Film

• A website or a Short film blog page would provide information of the short films around 
• The information shared would include: a brief description to prevent spoilers, cast information, crew members information and where people can watch the short film 
• A short films site must be creative and original to capture audiences attention and keep it memorable even if the person has not seen the film 
• Secret Cinema supports short films 
• Press and Publicity is a great way for your short film to be noticed. Having actors interviewed which gives views a brief insight on whats to come
• Having a striking image as a poster, such as a still clip from a dramatic scene could capture peoples attention wanting to know more about that moment and what was going on 
• A poster allows actors names on it so people might be more inclined to watch a short film with their favourite celebrity. 
• Promotional videos which can even be seconds long can give an exciting clip to entice viewers to watch 
• To target certain audiences such as young adults, handing out flyers at clubs or bars could attract their attention 
• Get friends to spread the word and give a positive and exciting message about the film 

Exhibition 

• Theatrical screening is often found in cinemas for a paying public audience 
• Non Theatrical is for a close group of people such as educational groups or a film society without a set payment, as there is usually a charge on the door 
• Screening any films, regardless if it is your own, or others, you must have acquired all the rights to prevent copywriting 
• Film nights show short films in popular bars, clubs, festivals, cafes and more, that allow more people to see short films 
• Glastonbury Festival has become a part of these must attend events that show short films 

Best Miscellaneous Advice From Industry Professionals 

• The internet is an invaluable resource for filmmakers 
• A strong production will be repeatedly used 
• Have clearances for everything before approaching buyers
• Have enough time to get the film print before your first exhibition opportunity 
• See contemporary and the most hysterical films to broaden knowledge of the short film industry 
• Find out everything possible about the industry, especially by reading the weekly trade press 
• Work in industries to gain experience and acknowledgement, regardless of paid or unpaid placements