Make It Short

by Brian Hickey | Published September 10, 2007

The Make It Short Movie Project is an exciting experiment in cinema. Each year the project makes one 16mm short film as well as an educational feature, which are both then premiered at local cinemas with all proceeds going to charity. What’s exciting is that, for a small donation, anyone can work or act in the movie. Contributors can staff positions ranging from extras and principal actors to editing assistant or director’s shadow. Lee Chambers, producer and co-founder of Make It Short, says, “Most of the cast and crew have never been on a film set before. It’s about demystifying the process, educating and entertaining all at the same time.”

While some participants are would-be or experienced moviemakers, Make It Short influences all of its participants regardless of skill level. “We had a 65-year-old guy who came out the first year because he was curious about how movies were made. He loved it so much he comes back each year and has even starred in a bunch of student films,” says Chambers.

This year the film is a “family-friendly mini-thriller” surrounding the annual G8 world leader conference. The project will be filming from September 13th to 16th in the city of Thunder Bay in Ontario, Canada. Make It Short is popular with experienced moviemakers like David Cronenberg and Paul Haggis (Haggis even served as executive producer of the project in 2006).

To participate and find more info, go to www.makeitshort.ca.