Film Distribution and The Oscars

I'm watching The Oscars and it just donned on me - not every film nominated for an Oscar has film distribution! Take the short films for example, they don't have film distribution. But they probably will soon.

Which brings up the question, what are the distribution choices and realities for short films? Mostly, Video On Demand is the best option, but I've sold short films to DVD companies who will bundle them up, for example and create a "Horror Shorts" DVD. I've also sold short films to cable networks, who will slot them before a feature of the same genre. So yes, there is a market for feature films out there, although acquisition prices are pretty low as you can imagine.

More than anything, I think short films can be a great calling card for a filmmaker. If you have a great idea for a movie, and cannot raise enough money to make it into a feature, or do not have the patience to wait to make it into a feature, then why not make it into a short film? You can submit it to film festivals, use it to garner some press, get people interested in your idea, and then use it to raise money to make it into a feature film. I've seen this happen on many occasions.

The one thing I'll say is that just because it is a 'short' film, don't scrimp on the details! Make it look as good as you can. Hire professional actors if you are able. Remember, you want this to be your calling card - so don't be so impatient that you pull out your mini-DV camera and start shooting the film without full preparation and raising at least some money to ensure that it looks good. OK?