Why Shorts Do It For Me

There is something exciting about downloading a new entry for RATMA and it doesn't matter what genre it's for or what country it's from, what excites me is anticipation. It's a bit like panning for gold, each scoop of riverbed could yield that golden nugget.
I believe we have found several such films that are head and shoulders above the rest, sometimes because the story is unique, sometimes the visual experience, dare I say cinematography, is outstanding, and sometimes it's the subject matter, But RATMA brings out something else, something that I find is the  USP of the whole festival. What I'm talking about is the film maker who is able to give me the feature film emotion, experience and feeling in 10 minutes or less without dilution or compromise, and that is where the true genius lies.
The short film craft isn't anything to do with asking your audience to make allowances for lack of budget, or time, or equipment but bringing them into the story quickly and efficiently so they aren't able to draw breath before they understand the back story, the characters and what is happening now and caring about the next word, twist or development. This has as much to do with sound and vision as it has to do with clever dialogue and gestures. If I was able to put a finger on it precisely I would be making films myself, but when it happens to me I notice, I look for and recognise those genius devises that make me believe. of course a good sound and acting skills play their part, as does the rest of the package, but when I find myself caring, I know it happened again.
Thanks to everyone who has sent entries to this years RATMA INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL because each shake of the sieve this year has something glittering in the bottom. The selection process starts on Monday and you have challenged us with such a varied helping of brilliance it will be difficult to make the cut so I wish you all the best of luck and thank you for your amazing support.
All money raised from ticket sales and donations will go to Cancer Research UK to support their amazing work finding treatment and cures for a disease that effects us all, directly or indirectly. Your support as filmmakers and festival delegates, sponsors and support team is vital and as honorary director and team leader I am humbled and inspired in equal measure by your participation.  Thank you.