Film & documentary: Why short-form storytelling is having a moment

Brands and NGOs are using 3–8 minute films to drive impact. We break down what makes these pieces work and how we approach structure and pacing.

Short-form doc works when it has a clear hook in the first 30 seconds, a single through-line, and a payoff that feels earned. We often structure around one character or one location so the audience isn’t juggling too much.

Pacing is key: we cut for rhythm, not just information. Music and sound design do a lot of the emotional lifting. For NGOs, we always tie the story back to impact—what changed, what’s next—so the film doubles as a report.