Just because your film got into Sundance doesn’t mean it’s any better than the rest of the awful shorts out there. It just means you are marketable.
Yikes. I really thought I would be in for some refreshing and pleasant surprises, but the shorts program I saw was just abysmal. Aside from the opener (Wisdom Teeth by the always great Don Hertzfeld), the films were shockingly unoriginal, way too long, and oftentimes lacking in any sort of distinct message.
By contrast, the shorts program at the neighboring Slamdance festival was much more entertaining. This program took risks, and showcased filmmakers trying to do new things with the format. Sure, it had its weak points, but for the most part it was a wonderfully well-rounded program that rewarded the audience for taking chances.
Before you make your film, ask yourself: What am I trying to tell the audience? Whether it’s a fable meant to caution against not composting or a shoot-em-up meant to thrill the audience for a blazing 4 minutes doesn’t matter. But the same rule still holds true to both: Everything in your film should work its way toward your theme/message/thesis/goal, whatever it may be.
