Micro-Short
A micro-short film is a type of film that typically lasts no longer than a few minutes, usually less than 5 minutes with credits. It is a very short film that aims to tell a complete story or convey an idea in a very condensed format. Due to its brevity, micro-short films often require creative storytelling techniques to effectively convey their message.
Short
A short film is a type of film that is shorter in length than a typical feature film. Generally, a short film is considered to be a film with a runtime of less than 30 minutes. Short films can be made in various genres and styles, such as comedy, drama, documentary, experimental, and animation. Due to their length, short films often focus on a single idea or theme, and rely on strong visual storytelling to convey their message.
Animation
An animation short film is a type of short film that uses various techniques to create the illusion of movement and bring characters and objects to life. These techniques can include traditional hand-drawn animation, computer-generated imagery (CGI), stop-motion, and others. Animation short films can be made in various styles, such as 2D, 3D, and mixed-media, and can cover a wide range of genres, from comedy to drama to fantasy. Due to their flexibility and limitless possibilities, animation short films are popular among filmmakers, and are often used to convey complex ideas and emotions in a visually stunning way.
Documentary
A documentary is a non-fictional film or video production that provides a factual account or presentation of real events, people, or issues. Unlike fictional narratives, documentaries aim to capture the truth and reality of their subject matter, often employing interviews, archival footage, photographs, and observational techniques. Documentaries can cover a vast array of topics, ranging from historical events and social issues to nature, science, and biographical profiles. They serve to inform, educate, and provoke thought, offering viewers a deeper understanding of the world around them through authentic storytelling and often presenting diverse perspectives on a given subject.
Feature
A feature film is a full-length cinematic production that typically runs for more than 60 minutes, with the standard duration ranging from 90 to 180 minutes. However, there are cases, often in independent or experimental filmmaking, where feature films can be shorter. In this context, a feature film not exceeding 90 minutes, including credits, is considered a concise yet complete narrative that explores characters, themes, and plots within a more condensed timeframe. Despite its shorter duration, such films maintain the traditional structure of a feature, offering a complete and engaging storytelling experience within the confines of a more time-efficient format.
Screenplay/Script
A screenplay is a written document that serves as the foundation for a film, television show, or theatrical production. It is a meticulously crafted narrative blueprint that outlines the story, characters, dialogue, and visual elements, providing a roadmap for filmmakers to bring the story to life on screen. For an original story, a screenplay encapsulates the creative vision of the writer, presenting a unique and compelling narrative that hasn’t been previously adapted from other sources. The page count for a screenplay typically falls within the range of 5 to 110 pages, with each page roughly corresponding to one minute of screen time. This guideline ensures that the story is developed with sufficient depth and detail while remaining within the practical constraints of production and viewer engagement. The screenplay is a crucial tool in the filmmaking process, serving as a guide for directors, actors, and other members of the production team to translate the written words into a visual and auditory experience for the audience.
Episode
An episode is a distinct and self-contained unit within a series, whether it be a television series, podcast, or web series. It serves as an individual installment of the larger narrative and often contributes to the overall story arc. In the context of television, an episode typically lasts around 20 to 60 minutes, containing a complete story or a significant development in an ongoing plot. Podcast episodes may vary in length but usually focus on a specific topic or theme. Episodes are characterized by their ability to stand alone while still contributing to the overarching narrative. They offer a structured format for storytelling, allowing creators to explore various facets of the broader storyline or delve into specific topics. The term “episode” implies a sequential order, suggesting that each installment builds upon the previous ones, creating a cohesive and engaging experience for the audience.
