Today, short films are becoming popular platforms among young, aspiring filmmakers as they launch their career into the cinematic world. Short films not only provide amateurs and enthusiasts an avenue to create a higher quality of film on a limited budget, but also give them the chance to try a wide range of genres without spending years and years on one film.

How Short is Short?
There is no clear definition of the maximum length of a short film. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences classify it as 40 minutes, while the Internet Movie Database refer to any film lasting less than 45 minutes as a short subject.

Brief History
Short subject was the term used for short films in the earlier history of short films, the theme of which was usually comedy. Well-known comedians such as Charlie Chaplin, Buster Keaton, Laurel and Hardy and others are known for their short films as well as their features.

However, after the 1930s, short films started to fade. The rise of television in 1955 casted more shadow on the industry and by the end of 1960s, short films eventually disappeared.

The Market Today
The major buyers of short films today are television channels. In Europe, short films are a serious business, with filmmakers devoting time and sweat to create sophisticated shorts for television or cinema. China, India and the countries of the Middle East are also starting to show an interest in acquiring shorts.

The DVD and mobile phone markets also play an ever-increasing role in the distribution of shorts. In addition, short film festivals and competitions are now helping to revive this neglected format. Festivals offer a great opportunity for budding filmakers get their film on the big screen, watched by an audience of industry people and by filmmaking peers.

Why Make a Short Film?
The average Hollywood movie costs in excess of $100million to make, then anywhere between three to six times that amount to market the film before a theatrical release. Short film, with its big ideas and meager budget, proves just the right push for independent filmmakers to launch their works. With the advent of digital videos, independent filmmaking has become cheaper than it has been for decades.

-------------------

CALL FOR ENTRIES

Regular Deadline – April 4, 2009
The 13th LA Shorts Fest ‘09 is the largest short film festival in the world. We are accredited by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts & Sciences. In past years, 33 participants have earned Academy Award nominations. The festival annually attracts more than 10,000 moviegoers, filmmakers and entertainment executives looking for the hottest new talent. We have honored some of Hollywood’s legends of the past: Charles Chaplin, Harold Lloyd, and Robert Wise; along with actors Martin Landau, James Woods, Gary Oldman and directors Tim Burton, Bryan Singer, Jan de Bont, Paul Haggis and Shane Black.

Final Deadline – May 8, 2009

Submit Online: www.lashortsfest.com