Short Film Script Sample: Real Example + Scene Breakdown

Want to write a short film script that stands out, but don’t know where to begin?

You’re not alone. Many writers get stuck trying to figure out the right format, structure, or how to fit a full story into just a few pages.

Short films aren’t short versions of features; they’re a unique art form with their own rules.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to write a compelling short film script, complete with:

A real script sample
A scene-by-scene breakdown
Formatting tips
Common mistakes to avoid

Let’s dive in.

What Is a Short Film Script?

A short film script is a tightly written screenplay, often between 3 to 20 pages, that tells a full story in a very short time, usually under 15 minutes.

Unlike features, short films:

Focus on one main idea or conflict
Limit characters and locations
Often ends with a twist or emotional punch

✍️ Quick rule: 1 script page = roughly 1 minute of screen time.

Short Film Script Format (Explained Simply)

Short film scripts use the same format as feature screenplays. This includes:

12-point Courier font
Scene headings (also called sluglines): INT. BEDROOM – NIGHT
Action lines: Describe what’s happening visually
Character names: In caps, centered above dialogue
Dialogue: Centered under the name
Parentheticals: (quietly), (laughing), etc.

If you’re new to formatting, use tools like Celtx, WriterDuet, or Arc Studio. They do the formatting for you.

Real Short Film Script Sample

Title: Second Chance
Genre: Drama
Length: 6 minutes

INT. BUS STATION – NIGHT

AMINA (22), hoodie up, clutches a battered backpack. She sits alone on a plastic bench, her eyes darting to the flickering digital board.

ANNOUNCER (V.O.)
Route 17 to Nairobi is delayed by 45 minutes.

She sighs. Checks her phone —
UNKNOWN NUMBER. Again.
She stares. Let it ring. Declines.

That’s just the first 30 seconds of screen time. It’s already doing a lot.

Scene Breakdown: Why It Works

1. It Starts in Motion

The scene opens with a character already in conflict, something’s happening. No slow setup.

2. Visual Clues Only

We don’t get her backstory in narration. Instead, we’re shown she’s running from something.

3. Tension with Minimal Dialogue

One line of dialogue (the announcer). Yet we feel anxiety, mystery, and isolation.

What to Learn from This

Want to write a script that grabs attention like this one? Apply these tips:

✔️ Start late in the story — cut the warmup
✔️ Focus on one emotional moment per scene
✔️ Use subtext — what’s unsaid often matters more
✔️ Make everything visual — if the camera can’t see it, don’t write it
✔️ Keep the dialogue lean — avoid long speeches unless they earn it

Common Mistakes in Short Film Scripts

Avoid these if you want your script to shine:

Too much exposition: You don’t need to explain everything
Poor formatting: Looks unprofessional and hard to read
No conflict: A scene where nothing happens is wasted time
Unrealistic dialogue: People don’t always say what they mean
Ending with a thud: Your final scene should punch, twist, or emotionally land

Conclusion

Writing a short film script is more than just learning a format; it’s about telling a powerful story in a limited amount of time.

With the right structure, visual storytelling, and a strong emotional hook, your script can leave a lasting impact.

Use the sample above as inspiration, apply the breakdown tips to your work, and don’t be afraid to revise. Every great script starts with a rough draft.