Making a short film or movie is a goal that many people set out for themselves. Unfortunately, when learning how to make a short film, most people will see that it can be very challenging at times.
There is a lot to think about when making one, which ranges from finding the right setting, hiring the right actors, and even deciding how to shoot it (if you want to shoot in film, consider 8mm film transfer to digital once the movie is done so you can share it easier).
But above all else, coming up with the idea for your short movie is likely the most challenging part of the entire process. Thankfully, however, there are a few things you can do to help you come up with unique ideas, and this article is going to go over some of them.
Think About Your Life and Those in it
Arguably the best way to come up with unique ideas for a short movie is to take inspiration from your own life. You know it better than anything else, and you feel a connection to your life more than anything else on the planet.
You should look back at your past experiences, your thoughts, and those you surround yourself with when coming up with a short movie idea. The movie doesn’t need to be about you or anyone in your life in particular, but using the various themes or situations within your own life can be a good place to start. This ensures your story is unique, and that you feel a connection to it throughout the process.
Of course, if you are going to include real-life situations or make mention of people or use them as inspiration, it can’t hurt to reach out to them and ensure they are okay with being represented in this way.
Take a Look at What is Going on in the World
Looking at current events can be another great way to come up with short movie ideas. The world is a very interesting place, and there are always things going on that can be the inspiration for a movie. Some are uplifting and joyful, while others are heartbreaking and frightening.
While these current events may be able to inspire you, there may be rules and laws about using exact names, places, and situations in your movie, so it is best to keep things as general as possible. You can still use current events as your jumping off point, but you want to make sure you add your own twist and don’t simply make a movie exactly about what is going on.
Visit Inspiring Locations or Individuals
Another wonderful way to come up with great ideas for your next short movie is to visit locations that inspire you. This could be some mountains, a lake, a unique city, the beach, or anywhere else you desire.
Sometimes, all it takes is seeing the right setting or landscape that can instantly bring a story or theme to life in your head. There are even several actual movie locations you can visit for even more inspiration, too. Some of these places may have significance to you or your past, or may simply be attractive and aesthetically-pleasing.
In addition to locations, meeting interesting people from different cultures and backgrounds can go a long way when it comes to inspiring you.
We hope that these tips and tricks have been able to help you come up with unique ideas for your next short movie. It can be a long and difficult process, but the end result can certainly be worth all the work.