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

'Kids Game' Creator Michiel Thomas Shares His Filmmaking Insights

by Heather Leighton | Reel South | July 12, 2021

In "Kids Game," a group of underserved teenagers go on a hunt to harvest wildlife for their families. Reel South's Heather Leighton sits down with the film's director, Michiel Thomas.

Jess dela Merced Speaks on the Inspiration Behind ‘Phony’

by Madeleine Fernando | July 12, 2021

In "Phony," Director Jess dela Merced envelops her own experience as an Asian American woman confronting imposter syndrome.

Erin Ploss-Campoamor Reflects on Her Film 'Luciela'

by Latino Public Broadcasting | July 12, 2021

Latino Public Broadcasting spoke with Erin Ploss-Campoamor on the making of "Luciela."

'Chef Steven': Serving a Community with Food and Dignity

by Amy Oden | July 12, 2021

Director Amy Oden sits down with Baltimore chef Steven Allbright to talk about his mission of paying it forward to those in need.

Falling in Love with 'The Love Bugs'

by POV | July 12, 2021

Directors Maria Clinton and Allison Otto take us through the process of creating "The Love Bugs."

'Without a Whisper': A Conversation with Director Katsitsionni Fox

by Vision Media Maker | July 12, 2021

Filmmaker Katsitsionni Fox discusses representation of Native communities and the profound influence the women in her life have had in her film "Without a Whisper."

Sai Selvarajan Highlights Emotional Immigrant Stories in 'Coup D'etat Math'

by Heather Leighton | Reel South | July 12, 2021

Director Sai Selvarajan discusses “Coup d'etat Math,” a film depicting the ubiquitous struggles many immigrants endure.

Nakamura and Boch Reflect on 'Atomic Cafe: The Noisiest Corner in J-Town'

by Grace Hwang Lynch | July 12, 2021

Directors Tad Nakamura and Akira Boch examine the inspiration and cultural legacy behind "Atomic Cafe: The Noisiest Corner in J-Town."

McKinleigh Lair Reflects on 'You Know the Drill'

by McKinleigh Lair | July 22, 2020

In "You Know the Drill," a normal school day in Wyoming becomes combative as students flip tables, dog-pile on trainers with plastic guns, and ponder whether they could fight back in a real shooting.

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.