How to Create a Good Narrative Short Film

originated by:Anonymous, Sara, Sondra C, Flickety (see all)

ArticleEditDiscussView History

A strong narrative film tells a good story, just as a novel or short story does.

editSteps

1. 1
   Script your story idea. You will need to have a script, or you can't have a film.
   Ads by Google

   Learn Global Human Rights

    Help Encourage Our Youth To Learn & Champion Human Rights. Free DVD.
   YouthForHumanRights.org
2. 2
   While thinking of an idea, make sure you write something attractive to your viewers. For example, If you're giving the script to someone who likes drama, add lots of drama. Comedy, add comedy, excetra.
3. 3
   Write an outline. Outline your script so that you can make sure that it has all of the good short story components.
4. 4
   Develop character motivations. Characters without motivation or a personality aren't really characters.
5. 5
   Include a dramatic event in the narrative. One that involves all of the characters.
6. 6
   Storyboard individual scenes.
7. 7
   Show your finished product to friends, family, teachers, etc.
   Ads by Google

   Free film

    Watch films, docs, clips & more Perfect For Teens. Free Online Now!
   www.TeenEntertainment.net

   Thick Film Printing

    Reduce Thick Film Printing Defects & See Clean Screens. View Demo
   www.foamtecintlwcc.com

   Barrier films: New report

    Films for flexible electronics: Needs, Players and Opportunities
   www.idtechex.com/flex

editTips

• Let your imagination take you away!
  Ads by Google

  Rolex Mentor and Protégé

   Initiative, Art Mentoring and More Meet the Selected Artists Now!
  Rolexmentorprotege.com
• Storyboarding each individual scene will make you think about from what camera angle you want to film each conversation, each bit of action. Don't be afraid to be creative. An excellent example of a director who used unconventional camera angles that helped create the mood of his movies was H.C. Potter. Check out his 1948 film "Mr. Blandings Builds His Dream House", starring Cary Grant and Myrna Loy.
• Request constructive criticism from your audience. Take to heart what they have to say, and make appropriate changes to strengthen your film, whether that means reediting or shooting additional footage.