Institution and Audience Research.

Why are short films made? How are they used? What is their role within the industry?
Short films are known to be "calling cards" for directors, as they are a way to promote their work through small tasters and samples of their style. Short films generally have a message to convey. Their role in the industry is to promote directors, and to communicate a particular message; generally and commonly reflecting upon society.

Who are short films normally targeted at?
Generally, film producers at film festivals, film enthusiasts and niche audiences.

Where do short films get exhibited? How do they reach their target audience?
Film festivals screen short films, to name a few; Cannes, Sundance, Brighton, and London. Their target audience's are reached through film festivals and independent cinemas.

What production difficulties do short films face?
Producers and creators of short films inevitably face issues regarding budgeting and funding. As short films do not have the sizable budget that feature length films have, they do not have the funding for production or marketing, and so they have to be creative with their marketing spending as little money as possible. Actors also must be willing to work for no pay, and location, set, and costumes, must require as little expenditure as possible.

Where can you get help to make a short film?
The national lottery often aids regarding funding, as does Channel four, who also help with promoting short films as they air them occasionally as well. The BBC also helps funding, as does the MET film school. Although, of course the companies must approve of the short first.