Top film tips

Whether you’ve never made a film with a message before, or if you want to brush up your film-making skills, here are some tips from leading film director Charlie Stebbings.

1. Start with a good idea which will make a film you and your friends want to watch and which persuades them not to smoke.
2. Watch other short films and stop-smoking films
3. Is horror, news, cartoon graphics, or funny jokes the best style for your film?
4. Write your script and ask your friends, family & other people to see what they think.
5. Choose the best person to act each character, or if you’re filming real life people - remember to change their names.
6. Draw pictures of each part of the film, to check the story makes sense and you have everything you need.
7. Your message is more important than your film camera or phone. Ask for help if you’re using special equipment!
8. Write down what you film in every shot, plus the time on the film so that you can find it again for your edit.
9. If you’re editing your film, cut out the shots that don’t fit - make it slick!

Remember we’re looking for your Cut – what you want to say.

Good luck!

Charlie

To take part in the competition, upload your film, save My Film Diary and Film-maker's Research (both in your Account).