Short Films Are Dead - Or Are They?

Why bother making a short? In the current era of web-series and TikTok - are shorts still relevant? This session focuses on the long and the short of it all (ha, see what we did there?). 

Join filmmaker/actor Brett Cousins as he cross examines filmmaker/actor Katrina Mathers (Cherry Hands Media) in a deep-dive session about whether one-off shorts are still relevant today for Australian filmmakers. Can you use a short film to get what you want - or should you be focussing on micro-features, web series, TikTok, YouTube or Vimeo channels instead?

We’ll discuss a range of examples and pathways (including HEAPS of tips related to film festivals), actual case studies of Aussie shorts that have progressed to long-form TV or features, as well as howy ou choose subject matter, find actors, crew and locations, deal with collaborations, source funding for shorts (noting Screen Australia’s recent changes), as well as a few practical exercises (yes, bring a pad and pen, tablet, or laptop). 

More than just about short films, this will be a super helpful session for anyone looking to gain more career-leverage from their projects - and a great way to start building your team!

When: Thursday 19 June 2025

Time: 6.30pm for a 7pm start 

Location: The Saloon Bar in the Edinburgh Castle, 681 Sydney Road, Brunswick. Please check in with our friendly AWG team on arrival!

Getting there: Anstey Station is a 5 minute walk, and the number 19 tram is directly out the front, there's plenty of on-street parking and it's an accessibility-friendly venue!

Tickets:  Members $10, non-members $15. 

Dinner:  Come share a meal with your fellow writers before, during, or after the panel! It's $25 pot and parma night, but the Ed Castle has a very diverse and dietary-friendly menu.

Please note: Due to the table-seated nature of the venue, tickets at the door cannot be guaranteed – so please book your spot online!