- Attention span: The average person's attention span is thought to be around 10-15 minutes, so it's important to keep your short film under that if you want to maintain audience engagement.
- Competition: Most film festivals have a maximum length for short films, which is typically between 10 and 15 minutes (although some festivals may allow for films up to 30 minutes). If your short film is longer than the festival's maximum, it will not be considered.
- Narrative arc: A short film should have a clear narrative arc, including a beginning, middle, and end. This can be difficult to achieve in a very short film, but it's essential if you want to leave the audience with a satisfying experience.
Ultimately, the ideal length for a short film will depend on the specific film and its subject matter. If you have a strong story to tell, you may be able to get away with a longer film, but if your film is less narrative-driven, you may want to keep it shorter.
In general, it's a good idea to err on the side of caution and keep your short film under 15 minutes. This will give you plenty of time to tell your story without losing the audience's interest.