Short Film Codes and Conventions

Short film is defined by its length. There are no set codes and conventions for Short film, as there are different genres. These include:

• Documentary
• Animation
• Black and White
• Drama/Horror/Thriller
• Fiction
• Colour

Some conventions include:

• Asthetic complexity-The way some shots and sequences in Short films may look complicated in itself. This can be seen in Berlin Horse (1970). Although it's just a horse, visually, the horse constantly moving round then going backwards may look complicated to the audience, but its about experimenting with new and different techniques.

• Plurality of content-Content is usually detailed and catchy, making the audience passive rather then active viewers. The film is usually quirky, keeping the audience more interested in the film.
• Breaking the fourth wall-Some Short films can break the fourth wall, with the actor/actress looking directly at the audience, creating a more realistic and intense atmosphere.