Lights, Camera, Action!

The filmmakers of the PBS Short Film Festival take us behind the scenes, sharing the inspiration behind their stories, the process that goes into the production of their films, new projects and more.

Behind The Lens Blog

A Story Almost Left Untold: Dan Bigbee and the Osage Murders

by Vision Media Maker | July 11, 2022

When Dan Bigbee Jr. and Lily Shangreaux learned of injustice which befell the Osage during the oil boom, they knew they needed to tell this story, inspiring their short film: "Osage Murders."

The 'Disrupted Borders' Team Highlights the Beauty of Friendships and Latinx Culture

by Nicholas Price | Reel South | July 11, 2022

Producer Ramon Villa-Hernández talks about his team's short film, "Disrupted Borders," and the cross-border friendship between two girls which inspired it.

Filmmaker Q&A: Dan Bigbee Jr. Discusses His Film 'Osage Murders'

by Emma Goddard | July 11, 2022

Director/Producer Dan Bigbee Jr. discusses the years-long journey producing his film "Osage Murders" and what he learned while working on this project.

'83 and Alone' Spotlights the Bhutanese Climate Crisis

by Jennica Gonzales | July 11, 2022

Filmmakers Alina Peng and Charles Zhang talk about the story behind their new documentary, "83 and Alone," the greater climate crisis in Bhutan, and how their film became a global call to action.

'The Dig: Bmore Club' Q&A with Ducky Dynamo

by Amy Oden | July 11, 2022

Bmore club mainstay Ducky Dynamo (Meagan B) sits down with Director Amy Oden to discuss the short film, "The Dig: Bmore Club," and the vibrant Baltimore musical scene it spotlights.

Jeanette Lam Highlights the Creative Communities Behind 'Amplified Voices'

by Danielle Sanzone | July 11, 2022

Jeanette Lam discusses her new film, "Amplified Voices," Youth FX, the community organization that inspired it, and the importance of telling BIPOC stories outside of the dominant cultural narratives.

PBS Short Film Festival Enters Virtual Reality for 10th Year

by PBS | July 26, 2021

The PBS Short Film Festival offers a virtual reality option to showcase filmmakers' cinematic art to a wider audience and in a more engaging format.

Ricci and Grammer Speak on Independent Films and 'Mildred'

by Katya Saldana and Nicole Tillberg | July 26, 2021

Director Michael Ricci Director and Cinematographer Cody Grammer discuss how they and other filmmakers in the Southern Illinois area have come together to continue their passion for filmmaking.

Filmmaker Q&A: Joe Brewster & Michèle Stephenson Remix the Conversation Around Race in America

by World Channel | July 14, 2021

In fierce recognition of the Black Lives Matter movement, Filmmakers Joe Brewster and Michèle Stephenson reflect on their commitment to inspire change for a brighter future.

About the Festival

Now in its 12th year, the PBS Short Film Festival is a celebration of independent films and filmmaking. Join us in exploring an incredible selection from talented filmmakers, showcasing films about family, identity, culture, inspiration, society and more.