I analysed three short films of the suspense genre to get some idea of the codes and conventions. I have posted them below.
True Face was a really good short film with a moral. It had some suspense and some action as well but it had no dialogues which gave the film some loop holes as many things went on without being explained.
Slapen is a Belgian short film. Although the language is different, it is not difficult to figure out where the film is going. It is a good suspense film.
This is the place, is also a very well constructed film and, however there is no gore or violence, but the suspense is constructed in a professional way.
Codes and Conventions:
I noticed that short films are likely to have a short story and the story is simple, but effective. The story of the film is as long as the film is and it is made in such a way that it fits into the short time span of the film (True face).
Short films are just like full length film. However, the number of characters in a short film are less, around two or three people and the story mainly revolves around the main character. But that doesn't mean that good acting is not necessary. In fact, good acting is very supporting for a short film, especially where there is suspense, enigma etc.
The time period for short films can range from 5 minutes up to half an hour.
I also noticed that short films have a twist in the storyline, even if in a normal situation,. This is because without having a twist in the storyline, short films would become boring.
I also noticed that the budget is kept really low in short films, as there is no large funding for the film. The locations are also limited to two or three locations. The budget is also the reason why there are less actors in a short film.
The shots of a short film are simple and steady and are mostly hand held. There are less likely to be tracking or dolly shots.
