Skillset Task unit Research short films and narrative for film. Answer the question below UNIT Explain the key elements of a story structure in film What are the key elements of story telling in film? How is the narrative structure of short drama different from other types of films (for example documentary or feature length)? Use examples from short films you have seen. (minimum 250 words) If you want to you can also review one of the short films that you have watched for your research as this is a requirement of Unit 1.

A narrative story has characters, settings and conflict. It’s what you typically think of when you think of “a story” – something that tells a tale instead of just relaying information like a textbook. Both factual and fictional films have narrative shaping, but they use different devices to tell their stories. Narrative relates to plot and structure. It is important to have a clear idea of the beginning, middle and end of your film Other key elements include characters, subplot, themes and visual/audio storytelling. Keep your audience interested: “What’s happening now must be inherently more interesting than what just happened. The goal of structure – the goal of your entire screenplay, in fact – is to elicit emotion in the reader and audience.” Use visual storytelling: In cinema a story is most visual when ideas and emotions are expressed through performance and aesthetics as opposed to dialogue. Filmmakers can use composition, framing, blocking of actors and their position to camera, colour palette, costume, lenses, light and camera movement to tell the story. FILMMAKING AS STORYTELLING

Film Structure

Specifics of Short Film Fewer characters No subplots Less budget, less well known cast Fewer settings/locations Shorter timeframe WHAT MAKES A GOOD SHORT Exciting and Original Idea Strong Beginning Make it Short Strong Script with Interesting Characters Creates its own small world Best Possible Production Values Good Acting Concise, Well Paced Editing