The Short Film: The Medium vs The Calling Card

What is the purpose of a short film? Does it exist to serve the portfolio, or to tell a story on its own? Is it a proof of concept for something greater, or can greatness exist in 15 minutes? Some of us have heard the same thing since film school: The short film is your “calling card.” If you want to direct a feature, then you must first direct a short. But what about short films as a standalone medium? With exhibition spaces and streaming platforms ever evolving, can filmmakers exist as artists by focusing on short films? In this panel, we explore the Directors’ journey making their short films, their processes, and the purposes behind delivering works short and sweet. We’ll discuss the matter of career, expectations, and what it means to create on your own terms. Moderator: ATLFF Shorts Programmer Astin Rocks. Panelists: What are Grandchildren Made Of - Lindsey Susor, By A Hair - Anthony Leslie, High Water - Tyquan Morton, and Oh Happy Day! - Ivan Rome Born and raised in Columbus, GA, Ivan Rome is a Georgia filmmaker with a passion for writing narratives that explore our culture through humor and heart. He has participated in several writing labs, including the 2025 TIFF Writers’ Studio, and his work has screened at Academy Award-qualifying festivals across the United States.