
THE SHORT: A Filmmaker’s Guide to Big Stories in Small Packages
THE SHORT by Rae Shaw is an inspiring, practical guide for emerging and established storytellers who want to master the art of short-form filmmaking. With clarity, creativity, and heart, Rae breaks down the process from idea to screen—sharing insights on structure, style, and voice while spotlighting overlooked formats and visionary directors. Whether you're a student, multi-hyphenate, or indie creator, this book offers the tools—and the courage—to make your short film matter.

Teaching Background
Rae Shaw brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise from her professor experience at San Francisco University. Her passion for teaching shines through as she imparts valuable insights and guidance to her students, nurturing the next generation of creative minds.
Every project Rae takes on is rooted in the belief that storytelling can educate, empower, and expand awareness. Whether through film, digital media, live experiences, or classroom-based curriculum, Rae integrates an educational component tailored to the communities we aim to reach. Rae's goal is to uncover and share meaningful knowledge in innovative, accessible ways.
Explore some of her past documentary projects and impact campaigns below.

Rae's Films

Black Kung Fu Chick is a dramedy webseries inspired by my love for martial arts movies of the 70's and 80's and a passion for female superheroes like Chinese martial artists Hsu Feng, Angela Mao Ying, and Pei Pei Cheng.

“Soap and Roses” tells the story of Raymond, a Chicago Southside janitor who in his off hours volunteers at a local community arts enter run by a young artist. When a series of turbulent events occurs, Raymond strikes out at the person he most admires, and thereafter begins Raymond’s struggle to resolve the consequences of an act he cannot reconcile.

After a young woman is raped on Halloween while she wears her Little Red Riding Hood costume, she is visited by various characters from the fairy tale as she considers the prospect of surviving her savage "wolf".

A lyrical short film that weaves past and present through the intimate recollections of a family grappling with legacy, loss, and the enduring power of memory. Subtle and evocative, it invites viewers to reflect on what we inherit—and what we choose to carry forward.

A vibrant, introspective journey through the creative process, following one woman’s search for voice, purpose, and connection as she reclaims the power of her own narrative. Both personal and universal, it’s a celebration of storytelling as survival, transformation, and play.




Authorship Journey
As a talented writer, Rae Shaw brings her storytelling prowess to the page in The Short, a powerful guide that demystifies the art of short-form filmmaking. Her writing reflects a unique perspective shaped by years of experience as a director and educator—captivating, insightful, and deeply creative. Explore her literary world and be inspired by the clarity, passion, and purpose that drive her work.

Best Award
Award-winning Scripts
Rae Shaw is an award-winning screenwriter celebrated for bold, character-driven stories that amplify underrepresented voices and explore emotionally resonant themes. Her acclaimed works — Hear Me Scream, Mating, and The Repass — have won recognition in leading industry competitions and film labs, praised for their lyrical dialogue, layered storytelling, and cultural authenticity. Whether delving into family, identity, or social justice, Rae’s work pushes boundaries while remaining deeply rooted in humanity.




