Institution and Audience - Why are short films made?

Why are short films made? How are they used? What is their role within the industry?
Most directors use short films as a “calling card”. Short films can put across the director’s skill, creative ideas, style and potential in a matter of minuets. Short films normally have a strong simple message that needs to be conveyed without influence from companies or producers.

Who are short films targeted at?
Short films are targeted at niche audiences, film enthusiasts, and producers at film festivals.

Where do films get exhibited? How do they reach their target audience?
Films normally get exhibited for the first time at film festivals (Sundance, Edinburgh international film festival, etc.) they can also be shown at independent cinemas possible before the blockbuster film. If these short films are a success (cult hit, or win an award) they can be put on a DVD which is a collection of short films that may be purchased by film buffs.

What production difficulties to short films face?
The most common difficulties a short film will face are the same as any film, budget, equipment and timing. However these problems are worse for a short film as they have no studio giving them extensions or more funding.