The short film – the art of NOT biting off more than you can chew

Hey there, film enthusiasts and budding screenwriters! It’s 10:38 PM on February 09, 2025, and if you’re like me, you’re probably pondering the art of the short film. These little gems have a unique charm, but they’re also rife with potential pitfalls. Let’s chat about the seven most common failings of short film scripts and how to dodge those bullets.

Overambition – trying to bite off more than you can chew

You’ve got this grand vision, right? But cramming a feature-length story into a short film’s runtime is like trying to fit ten pounds of potatoes into a five-pound sack. The classic short Paperman by Disney sticks to a simple, yet compelling story about a guy and a girl connecting through paper airplanes. Keep your ambitions in check. Focus on one clear, concise narrative.

Lack of focus – too many cooks spoil the broth

When your script tries to juggle too many characters or subplots, you end up with a mess. “The Lunch Date” is a masterclass in focus – one setting, two characters, and a twist that keeps you engaged. Your script should be like a laser beam, not a floodlight. Every element must serve the story, not just add noise.

Underdeveloped characters – flat as a pancake

Characters in short films can be as deep as a puddle if you don’t give them room to breathe. In “Blink,” the protagonist’s depth is shown through actions, not words. Give your characters quirks, motivations, and a touch of humanity, even within tight constraints. Let their actions speak louder than their lines.

Poor pacing – the tortoise and the hare syndrome

Pacing can either make your audience feel like they’re watching paint dry or like they’re on a wild rollercoaster with no end. “Whiplash,” the short film, balances its intensity with moments of calm, creating a rhythm that hooks you. Control your pacing like a conductor with an orchestra – speed up for excitement, slow down for impact.

Excessive exposition – don’t beat around the bush

Exposition can kill the vibe quicker than a skunk at a garden party. In “The Black Hole,” the story unfolds visually, reducing the need for dialogue. Show, don’t tell. If you must explain, weave it naturally into the action or dialogue, making it feel like part of the world, not a lecture.

Clichéd or predictable storylines – same old, same old

Telling a story that’s been told a million times? You’re not bringing anything new to the table. “The Wrong Trousers” by Aardman Animations takes the heist genre and turns it into something fresh with claymation and humor. Find your unique angle, even if you’re walking familiar ground.

Ignoring audience engagement – out of touch

Finally, if your film doesn’t connect with the audience, it might as well be a monologue in an empty room. “Lights Out” grips you from the start with a simple, yet terrifying concept. Engage your audience immediately. Make them care, make them feel, make them remember your film.

Now, overcoming these failures isn’t just about recognizing them; it’s about being proactive in your writing.

Here’s how:

For overambition, trim your story down to its essence. Ask yourself what’s the heart of your tale? For lack of focus, map out your plot and characters, ensuring each serves the story’s goal. To deepen characters, give them a defining moment or trait that resonates. Pacing can be managed by reading your script aloud or timing scenes in your head.

When it comes to exposition, challenge yourself to remove every explanatory line, replacing it with visual storytelling or dialogue that feels natural. To avoid clichés, brainstorm at least three unique twists or angles to your story. And for audience engagement, start with a hook – something that grabs attention immediately.

Remember, writing a short film script is like crafting a fine piece of jewelry. It’s all about precision, beauty, and making every moment count. So, grab your pen, or open that laptop, and start refining your script. With these tips, you’re not just avoiding pitfalls; you’re setting yourself up for success. Let’s make those short films memorable, shall we?

But …

If you don’t want to take on the challenge by yourself, Ghostwriters Central, Inc., can write your short script for you. The company president, Michael McKown, personally vets the writers he puts under contract, to assure that the screenwriter you hire will hand you back the quality script you’re paying for. If that’s acceptable to you, your next step is to click the link. Your consultation is free.

Author credits goes to : Michael McKown