PRODUCING YOUR SHORT  FILM

One of our grads entered her l2 minute film in the New York Film Festival.  Yes, it won!  But more important she met producers, managers distributors and celebs - and an agent who later agreed to rep her.  "It's such a great way to gain access to decision makers inside the Hollywood studio system." she says.  "It's also inspirational and a great way to have fun." She's now working on assignment and hopes to finish by the end of the year.

Short films are the rage right now.  Outlets are all over the place.  Producers and distributors are looking for really good "shorts," at the festivals, not those hand-made films that shout "amateurism."  A good short film  is a CALLING CARD to show off their talent.

And to network!  Film Festivals are a great outlet for emerging screenwriters because they can attend the receptions, luncheons, pitch sessions and award dinners and, of course, the parties at night.

At Festivals, especially those not in Hollywood, are where celebs take mini vacations, where they relax and are more open and approachable.  Getting to know them is priceless.  Because stars are sitting at a table near yours and it makes them more accessible.

It's a great way to have a dream but if you are going to make it in this busness it's vital that you get to know people involved in entertainment. Get out of the house, the office and meet people who can lead you to success.  Go to Big Bear in California, to Lido in Italy, to Honolulu, to Sundance, to Cannes. 

Sound glamorous?  It is!  And it can be a huge career boast.

You will learn more than you can imagine about your craft from a different perspective.  People love short films because they come from the heart.  This can give great satisfaction, an it's a terrific way to jump start your career.

Contact Donna Lee, Hollywood Scriptwriting Institute, about how you can get your short film produced and distributed worldwide:   Hwdscreen@AOl.com.