In the past decades, Hollywood has been the most influential and prominent film industry around the globe. Major studios like Paramount Films, Columbia Pictures, and Universal Studios have been responsible for blockbusters, and iconic movies, from superheroes and flicks to hair-raising horror movies that transcend the test of time. While these films have been entertaining, they are often restricted by the demands of the producers, who have their eyes on ticket sales and profits. That’s why shorter indie productions have captured moviegoers’ attention in recent years with their more compelling and creative stories.
These unique masterpieces have been supported and loved by the average cinema-goer, movie reviewer, or critic, or those working behind the scenes producing their indie shorts. Articles on this issue produced by professional essay writing services indicate that indie short films resonate with many people since they are passion projects. They tell a story without giving in to the pressures set by money-making studios.
Without these constraints, filmmakers can tell their stories following their hearts. Let’s learn more about the magic that goes behind indie short films.
Indie Films Are Well-Received
The term indie films is a shortcut for independent films or movies that are produced outside significant studios. This means they’re made by smaller production companies that operate on a limited budget, with less technical equipment and a smaller crew. Hence, today’s indie movie projects could also be shorter than usual because of the minimal resources.
The most famous example of an indie movie is Quentin Tarantino’s classic Pulp Fiction, produced in 1994. With its meager budget, it grossed over USD 100 million at the box office. It’s supposedly the first indie movie that managed to surpass that mark. Eventually, it became a highly influential and unforgettable work of art in this genre.
Furthermore, these avant-garde movies have more exciting stories brought to life with creative freedom. Hence, it’s unsurprising that award-giving bodies have received these flicks well. Examples of independent titles that have garnered awards are:
- Moonlight
- Hereditary
- Uncut Gems
- Ex Machina
- Ladybird
- The Green Knight
- Eighth Grade
Memorable Performances and Breathtaking Cinematography Work
Because these independent productions focus on quality, memorable and riveting performances have been made by up-and-coming actors. For some, like Elliot Page in Juno, starring in an indie production is his big break. Indie films offer a chance for actors to showcase their skills better than mainstream movies. After all, the latter is known to use special effects to tell a compelling story rather than focusing on the nuances of the characters.
Moreover, indie movies are known for impressive cinematography as filmmakers work doubly hard to make camera work, lights, and shadows convey their message. Fortunately, submitting indie short features to festivals worldwide is now easy. Hence, every small filmmaker now has the chance to get their production noticed. For example, thanks to the Cannes Film Festival, Quentin Tarantino’s Pulp Fiction won the highest award, the Palme d’Or. And for this, he made a name for himself as a force to be reckoned with.
A Chance to Tell Thought-Provoking Stories of Human Experience
Since movies of this caliber are driven by purpose and passion, not the box office, they tell more poignant stories of the human experience. They encapsulate the crazy world people live in splendidly. Unlike big hits that only touch the surface, flicks in this genre touch on more profound and compelling stories.
Hence, count on indie productions to center on unique, thought-provoking stories. For instance, they can focus on socio-political issues or real-life events. But despite focusing on stimulating topics, these movies still entertain viewers. It’s an effective tool for making people take a second look at the world to gain a new perspective. At the same time, these independent movies are a gift to the world of cinema.
The Pursuit of Artistic Vision and Creative Freedom
These independent movies have done well because they are driven by artistic visions instead of profits. Moreover, since these projects are produced outside Hollywood, they are not censored as heavily as mainstream productions. Since they’re not pressured by dollar-centric demands with elements that please as many of the population as possible, they can create what they truly desire. Hence, most indie short movies have the following characteristics:
- More explicit content
- Deal with more sensitive issues and strong subjects
- Have raw honesty with no sugarcoating
This is why independent cinema is an art form needed to balance big studio productions. Indie filmmakers produce art that encourages producers to unleash creative juices and artists to express themselves. Since they’re not obligated or governed by these rules, stories are told how the producers intended them to be.
Supportive and More Gentle Environment
Those who create and watch indie movies know this community is close-knit, as filmmakers tend to support each other’s projects. Since they work with meager resources, they collaborate to help one another. The working environment is also more personal, friendly, and relaxed.
Remember that creating a cohesive atmosphere on big productions with large crews is challenging. At times, several people are shooting a scene in different places. In contrast, lower-budget productions make it easier for the team to bond together as they make the movie. And this translates to events that are often also more personal.
Touch on Topics That Promote Diversity
Finally, one of the biggest perks of producing and watching independent productions is they offer representation for all and promote diversity. No matter the gender, race, or social class, everyone can get involved and enjoy these flicks. Data shows that female producers and directors are grossly underrepresented in mainstream cinema. But in this genre and its famous film festivals, women and people of color are welcome.
For instance, at the LA Film Festival, a highly diverse group is represented in their roster of entries. The F-Rating, for female-produced movies is now implemented across numerous indie film festivals and applied to productions directed, produced, or written by females.
Similarly, the Film Independent association promotes the work of people from all backgrounds. More than half of their members come from poorly represented communities in the industry. Thus, those who support indie films are also said to support inclusion for one and all.