Tim Joy
Veteran
I don't know how to do it through experience, only through observation. Presented here is a list of suggestions only, based on my short time here for the last two fests. I'm sure other's will have additions...
How to make a winning short
1. Write a GREAT script. Duh... The winners have great scripts. It is your template, your bible, and your ticket to attract talent. What is a great script? I don't know, but they usually follow a basic formula- A Story, problem, or question is developed early on so that it keeps the viewer interested enough to follow the character(s) on a journey that often concludes with a twist, or otherwise satisfying resolution. All 6 winning entries followed this formula, because for a 6 minute movie It works.
2. Cast great ACTORS. If you're successful at #1, #2 is much easier. Every actor wants to work with a great script. It might take some bribery $$, depending on where you live, but get actors that knock your socks off.
3. Immerse the cast, crew, and yourself in the script. This means rehearsals with cast and crew, production meetings, story-boarding, equipment tests, CC test, music choices...etc. All with one goal in mind- Support the story and the script through artistic and technical choices. Rehearsal with the cast is the most beneficial, so if you can only do one thing, do that.
4. Plan everything. Very little is left to happy accidents in movies; most everything is intentional and rooted in the script and story. There's enough to think about as it is on set. You will do yourself big favors to have: a shotlist, in shooting order with storyboards, sketches, or test-shots and approximate time to allow for each shot; lighting plan, sound plan, set dressings and props, makeup plan, costumes, food, equipment checklists, and jokes. Sure, why not have a few jokes ready when the vibe turns bad.
5. When shooting, use "problems" as opportunities for creativity. Being too rigid with your plan can lead to disaster. Be flexible and keep the creative energy flowing. This is when happy accidents occur most.
6. Make the technical side invisible. This covers getting good sound, lighting, camera operation, angles, movement, color, framing, makeup, continuity, rules and conventions, music, sound fx, and anything else that is used to support the story, but will detract if it is noticeably bad. These technical skills are very knowledge and experience intensive. It takes years to develop skills in so many areas, but luckily you have a vast support base right here. Just ask, or browse around, and you will find answers to all your questions.
Lastly, Have fun. If it's not fun at least most of the time, why would you do it?
I hope this isn't too preachy and helps somebody.
How to make a winning short
1. Write a GREAT script. Duh... The winners have great scripts. It is your template, your bible, and your ticket to attract talent. What is a great script? I don't know, but they usually follow a basic formula- A Story, problem, or question is developed early on so that it keeps the viewer interested enough to follow the character(s) on a journey that often concludes with a twist, or otherwise satisfying resolution. All 6 winning entries followed this formula, because for a 6 minute movie It works.
2. Cast great ACTORS. If you're successful at #1, #2 is much easier. Every actor wants to work with a great script. It might take some bribery $$, depending on where you live, but get actors that knock your socks off.
3. Immerse the cast, crew, and yourself in the script. This means rehearsals with cast and crew, production meetings, story-boarding, equipment tests, CC test, music choices...etc. All with one goal in mind- Support the story and the script through artistic and technical choices. Rehearsal with the cast is the most beneficial, so if you can only do one thing, do that.
4. Plan everything. Very little is left to happy accidents in movies; most everything is intentional and rooted in the script and story. There's enough to think about as it is on set. You will do yourself big favors to have: a shotlist, in shooting order with storyboards, sketches, or test-shots and approximate time to allow for each shot; lighting plan, sound plan, set dressings and props, makeup plan, costumes, food, equipment checklists, and jokes. Sure, why not have a few jokes ready when the vibe turns bad.
5. When shooting, use "problems" as opportunities for creativity. Being too rigid with your plan can lead to disaster. Be flexible and keep the creative energy flowing. This is when happy accidents occur most.
6. Make the technical side invisible. This covers getting good sound, lighting, camera operation, angles, movement, color, framing, makeup, continuity, rules and conventions, music, sound fx, and anything else that is used to support the story, but will detract if it is noticeably bad. These technical skills are very knowledge and experience intensive. It takes years to develop skills in so many areas, but luckily you have a vast support base right here. Just ask, or browse around, and you will find answers to all your questions.
Lastly, Have fun. If it's not fun at least most of the time, why would you do it?
I hope this isn't too preachy and helps somebody.
