What is a short film? A short film is a motion picture that normally runs for a short period of time, not more than 40 minutes. The film should depict a complete story, centered around a theme, idea, or concept, which can be either a narrative, experimental, or documentary film.

The main difference lies in its length, which makes a short film different from a feature film. Feature films generally run for 70 to 180 minutes, while short films usually run from 1 to 40 minutes. Short films require such an economy of structure because they can’t portray the story that a feature film does in such a smaller time span.

How do you come up with an idea for a short film? Ideas for short films can come from anywhere—personal experiences, news stories, or simply a moment of inspiration. The key is to find a concept that can be explored within a limited amount of time. Consider focusing on a single idea or emotion, as brevity is crucial in short films.

What is the short film structure? Short films are structured similarly to feature films, usually in three acts:

Act 1 (Setup): Introduce the main character, setting, and the inciting incident.

Act 2 (Conflict): Present the central conflict or challenge the protagonist faces.

Act 3 (Resolution): Resolve the conflict and provide closure, often with a twist or a strong emotional payoff.

Short films have very tight timeframes and thus their characters must develop and be established really fast. Set your core attribute or driving need that controls how they operate all the way throughout the movie. In most short films, the character arc can be minimized; however, in any short film, it’s always crucial that they evolve or change.

What makes a good short film script? A good short film script is clear, concise, and impactful. Focus on:

Strong concept: The idea should be simple enough to be conveyed within a short time but rich enough to evoke emotion or provoke thought.

Tight structure: Every scene should serve the story and move it forward.

Memorable characters: Even in a short amount of time, characters should feel real and relatable.

Powerful ending: Short films often rely on a twist or an emotional punch at the end, leaving a lasting impression.

How do you handle dialogue in a short film script? Dialogue in short films should be minimal and purposeful. Every line should serve to advance the plot, reveal character, or enhance the atmosphere. Because the format is brief, you often don’t have the luxury of long, meandering conversations. Instead, focus on using dialogue to create impact and keep the story moving.

How do you write a great ending for a short film? The ending of a short film needs to be satisfying, whether it’s happy, sad, or ambiguous. Aim for a conclusion that ties up the central conflict in a meaningful way. A good ending can be a twist, an emotional resolution, or a thought-provoking moment that resonates with the audience long after the film ends.

Ideally, what is the word count of a short film script? Short film scripts generally go from 5 to 15 pages, depending on how fast you set the pace in your film. One page of script translates to one minute of screen time, more or less. The point is that it should not be too long and be as concise as possible because you don’t have the time to have multiple subplots.

What are the common mistakes in writing a short film?

Overcomplicating the story: The plot should be simple and focused with limited time.

Weak characters: Characters should be relatable and compelling even within a short time frame.

Wasting time on exposition: Long explanations of the plot or world-building should be avoided. Key details should be picked up through action and dialogue.

An unsatisfying ending: A weak or open-ended conclusion can leave the audience feeling unfulfilled. Aim for a resolution that feels earned.

Writing a short film is about making every moment count. By focusing on a strong, simple concept, creating relatable characters, and delivering a powerful ending, you can craft a compelling story that resonates with your audience in a short amount of time.