How to Write Short Films that WORK.

Summary

This video offers aspiring filmmakers practical advice on writing short films, emphasizing the importance of simplicity and structure. It highlights common pitfalls, such as overambitious storylines and lack of direction, urging writers to outline their stories effectively. The speaker encourages a fun approach to writing, likening it to a game with specific rules to foster creativity. Additionally, a structured framework called the 'Instant Short Film Blueprint' is introduced, designed to help writers efficiently craft compelling narratives. With affordable resources available, viewers are inspired to start creating impactful short films immediately.

Takeaways

• 😀 Understand that many filmmakers struggle with finding good stories or resources to create short films.
• 🎬 Start with a strong outline to ensure your story is clear and focused.
• 🚫 Avoid common mistakes by not attempting to force feature-length stories into short films.
• 📝 Structure is crucial; recognize that short films often require a different narrative approach than features.
• ⚙️ Treat writing like carpentry: measure twice, cut once to prevent unnecessary complications later.
• 🎨 Limitations can spark creativity, so use specific rules to guide your writing process.
• 🏋️‍♂️ Make writing fun and engaging, similar to how you would approach working out—start small and build up.
• ⏰ Set time constraints or playful challenges (like writing a horror story about a light bulb in 10 minutes) to inspire creativity.
• 📚 The Instant Short Film Blueprint course provides practical guidance for crafting short film stories based on available resources.
• 💰 Take advantage of the limited-time offer for the course, which includes additional bonus content to enhance your learning experience.

Q & A

What is the main focus of the video?

The video aims to teach viewers how to write a short film that has a compelling story, is simple, and can be produced with limited resources.

What are the common mistakes novice writers make when writing short films?

Novice writers often make the mistake of choosing overly complex stories meant for feature films and lacking a clear direction for their narratives.

Why is outlining important in the writing process?

Outlining is crucial because it helps writers visualize the entire film, ensuring that all significant elements are in place before starting the script, which minimizes rewrites and boosts confidence.

How does the speaker suggest overcoming the challenge of writing?

The speaker suggests making writing fun by treating it like a game and setting specific rules or constraints to stimulate creativity.

What analogy does the speaker use to describe the writing process?

The speaker compares writing to carpentry, emphasizing the importance of planning (measuring twice) before executing (cutting once) to avoid unnecessary complications.

What are the key components of the Instant Short Film Blueprint mentioned in the video?

The Instant Short Film Blueprint includes three story structures and ten concrete rules designed to help writers create effective short film stories quickly.

What unique strategies does the speaker recommend for generating ideas?

The speaker recommends giving oneself specific themes or elements to incorporate into a writing challenge, such as writing a horror film about a light bulb within a time limit.

What feedback has the course received from early testers?

The course has received positive feedback, with no unsatisfied customers among the 100 people who pre-ordered and beta-tested it.

How does the speaker view the relationship between structure and creativity in writing?

The speaker believes that imposing rules or limitations can enhance creativity, allowing writers to discover new solutions they might not consider without those constraints.

What promotional offer is mentioned in the video for the course?

The course is offered at a discounted price of $59 for a limited time, which is 25% off the regular price, along with bonus content that includes a brainstorming workshop and a speed-written short film script.