This is a layout of different codes and conventions for short films

1. THE CODES AND CONVENTIONS
OF SHORT FILMS
By Emily Grannon

2. Characters
In a short film there is a limited
amount of characters, mainly ranging
from 1-4. This is because there is a
short amount of time and therefore
the audiences cannot take in too much
detail on the characters back stories
as well as understanding what the
plot of the story is. By having a lack
of characters the audience can still
feel some sort of connection and
opinion on each character without
feeling overwhelmed with
information.

3. The lack of characters is
apparent in occupied where
there is only one woman
who goes into an aeroplane
toilet and seems very
mystery and shady when
revealing different objects
from her clothing but then
there is a twist where her
actions were just her
preparing herself to have a
cigarette in the toilet.
Occupied

4. Twist
In a short film in order to keep the audience
interested in the plot/storyline there should
be some kind of twist. As there is only a limited
amount of time the twist cant be too complicated
but making sure that the audience don’t become
bored and your short film doesn't become predictable.
In my short film I plan to add a twist which make the audience
question afterwards what has happened and how it has occurred.
n my opinion adding a twist that isn't too confusing to the audienc
is cleaver and give your short film an edge.

5. Cost Effective
Having a low budget is a common convention for short films
This is very important for my film as I am a student and cannot
afford to spend lots of money. Professional short films often have
a low budget as they have been invested by an independent
company who cant afford to give too much to the production.
To limit the amount of spending money the directors usually stick
o one or two locations where the set is already there for them and
they don't have to create it.

6. Length
The length of a short film is what
categorises it as a short film which
should
maximum around 30 mins. However
many directors produce a 5-10 mins.