how to make a short film
1. Of all media, why screen?
You have choices of media to tell your story in: screen, print, radio, stage, and interactive new media (like this one). Bear in mind the different types of audiences that consume each media, as well as who exactly you wish to convey your message to.
Each media has different qualities and different abilities in transmission. Of primary importance is the medium’s ability to find resonance in a specific range of senses and sensibilities in your desired audience. Next in importance is the medium’s range of possibilities to actually package what you wish to say to your audience.
The level of response you wish to elicit from your audience would also determine the type of medium you would select. Do you wish them to be passive during transmission and then internalise for later action? Do you wish them to be able to jump to their feet almost instantly and shout slogans? Do you wish them to negotiate with your message to find the truth and value for themselves? Do you wish to engage them in extended polemic that requires comprehensive logic?
