TIFF 2025: Why make a short film if you can also make a TV pilot?
The Toronto International Film Festival (TIFF) is known for its diverse programming, from gala presentations to thought-provoking documentaries. However, one aspect of the festival that often flies under the radar is the Shorts section, where emerging filmmakers showcase their talent in bite-sized films.
This year, two Canadian shorts are making waves for their innovative approach to storytelling. “Bots,” a sharp satire by Rich Williamson and Shasha Nakhai, and “Demons,” a multigenerational drama by Kelly Fyffe-Marshall and Preeti Torul, are not just standalone short films but also serve as proof-of-concept for potential TV series.
Both filmmaking teams saw an opportunity to expand their stories beyond the confines of a short film and attract attention from industry insiders. By creating these shorts as pilots for potential series, they were able to showcase their creativity and storytelling skills in a compact format.
For Fyffe-Marshall and Torul, “Demons” was developed as a script for a 10-episode series, with support from organizations like Ontario Creates and TIFF’s Accelerator program. The short film serves as a teaser for what could be a compelling and engaging television series.
Similarly, Williamson and Nakhai used “Bots” as a way to explore the dynamics of their characters and set the stage for a potential series. By incorporating elements of conflict and humor into the short film, they were able to capture the essence of what a longer-form series could offer.
Both filmmaking teams were careful to ensure that their shorts functioned as independent stories while also hinting at the larger narrative arc. By striking a balance between satisfying endings and tantalizing cliffhangers, they were able to leave audiences wanting more.
In a landscape dominated by streaming platforms and fierce competition for viewers’ attention, the two-for-one approach of creating shorts as proof-of-concept for series is a smart strategy. It not only showcases the filmmakers’ vision and creativity but also provides a tangible example of what they can deliver to potential broadcasters and studios.
Ultimately, the ability to experiment with different genres and storytelling styles in a short film format allows filmmakers to take risks and push boundaries. By following their curiosity and embracing the unknown, they can pave the way for new and exciting storytelling possibilities.
Both “Bots” and “Demons” will premiere as part of TIFF’s Shorts Cuts program, offering audiences a glimpse into the future of Canadian filmmaking. More information on these shorts and other festival events can be found on the TIFF website.
