Seeing your script go from page to screen is every writer’s dream. But getting your script noticed and produced can be difficult.
An often important part of being successful in short films is writing a script that is “producible.”
What does “producible” mean? For many in the industry, it’s shorthand for a film that is both marketable and budget-friendly.
Creating a producible short can be tricky, but these time-tested tips have helped scores of writers get their short script produced.
1. KNOW YOUR MARKET
Writing a producible short film often includes having a solid understanding not only of the current market (what’s hot right now) but emerging trends in the industry. At a minimum, writers should be familiar with the films short-listed for an Academy Award in the shorts category, and which shorts have headlined at the biggest film festivals that year.
Knowing the market also includes having a strong understanding of the genre you’re writing for, and what makes that particular genre tick.
2. AIM FOR 10-12 PAGES
Yes, a story should be as long as it needs to be. But in the short film medium, it’s worth getting really honest with yourself about killing your darlings.
In general, the sweet spot for the length of short films is ten to fifteen minutes, which has largely been determined by typical film festival programming. Ten to twelve pages, and time for credits, will typically land you at a fifteen minute short. The less you need to film, the fewer days you need to shoot, and the lower the budget. Remember, too, to keep the structure simple – this medium is often too short to support the details of complex acts and scene sequences.
3. STUNT THE STUNTS
Even the simplest action choreography requires a stunt coordinator and extensive safety precautions. Safety is extremely important, but also expensive – particularly the cost of insurance. If your short film doesn’t require a stunt, then it’s best not to include it at all.
4. LIMIT SPECIAL EFFECTS
Avoid telling a story that might require complicated cinematography that might need special equipment like a drone or crane.
Also, be sure to steer away from expensive special effects, both practical and in post-production, such as a character shooting fire out of her hands or a car explosion. Even needing to erase signage or logos in the background will add up quickly.
5. HIRE A LINE PRODUCER
You might be asking. “Wait, isn’t that what you do when you’re going into pre-production?” A good Line Producer, though, can also be helpful during the writing phase. They can give you a sense of how much it will cost to shoot your script as written.
Getting a quote early can help you make budget-friendly changes to your script before producers see it.
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Now that you’ve gotten a few basic tips on writing a more “producible” short script, how do you get your film funded?
The Shore Scripts Short Film Fund provides an opportunity for emerging writers, directors, and producers from around the world to receive much-needed support to get their work produced and seen through grants, mentorship, development assistance, industry circulation, and more. Learn more here.
