Filmmaking / Directing : Shorts by Padma Narayanaswamy

For me it is a matter of cost and logistics. With little to no budget it is easier to write a quick story that can pack in as much story and character development as possibly in a short time. Feature scripts usually mean more money and resources. Money and resources spent on holding that story for 90+ minutes.

Only 2% of shorts ever make any money and it is even less as to which ones turn a profit. The purpose of making a short is the same as the purpose of writing a short story--for experience, it takes less time & less money. Filmmakers often use it as a calling card to get agents, managers and even potential funding for their first feature.

Thanks dear friends I have written about five features and hunting for a Producer. I than decided to write a few shorts . I would like a buyer . I dont mind if I am paid less but if it is produced at least I can use it as a calling card.

I think shorts are like having a resume for all involved. They are generally a lot more affordable to make than features.

Shorts I'm working on with local production companies are used as a way to help to secure future funding. Like Tabitha says, it's like building a resume.

I doubt anyone is actually going to buy your short film script...Producers don't sign on to short film projects unless funding is already in place. Generally it is up to the director or creator to find funding for the short and then they find a Producer who knows what to do with it.

Most shorts do not make money (unless they're commercials). They are practice and calling cards. The only 'purchase' in terms of writing I've seen for short films would be the rights to an award winning short story. Or a token payment of maybe five to twenty dollars on the outside.

Um, no. 'Darkly Dreaming Dexter' was a NYT bestselling series for about seven year prior to getting picked up.

Thanks for all your replies.

Yep, mostly for practice and for resume building. Occasionally someone is able to use their short as the beginning of a feature and get funding for the feature that way.

Rather than waiting for someone to option your script, I suggest figuring out how to direct it yourself. If you can afford a feature, do that. But if not, try making your short.

I am passionate about script writing and direction is beyond me . I am also not passionate about direction.

Evan that's a great idea but not all of us have the aptitude I wish I did.

i'm no expert - i see shorts as a good way to showcase talent, as a writer, director etc. not so much for money but as a way to introduce yourself and what you can do - it's also a great learning tool - learning from small projects before tackling a feature length film, TV show etc. my opinion...

Shorts help you perfect your craft. Their more personal than anything else, and a way for others to see your creativity and vision. They can lead to bigger and better things but you won't make money off of a couple of shorts.

Show reel. There are some festivals for shorts. They're cheaper to make than features. Good hands on experience actually making a film with other people. I made a few shorts with filmmaking friends and a music video before tackling my debut feature.