Paul of Self-Reliant Filmmaking has not been posting much lately and that is because he was overseeing Temple University's annual Film Festival:

"My point is that there’s something about seeing the problems back to back for hours on end — as well as having to make choices about what stays and goes, and learning to articulate the reasons — that is specific to the film festival selection process. It’s a phenomenal chance for developing filmmakers to think about what makes a film “work.”

What did the films that were selected have in common? Not much. They were a diverse group. But all had a simple, engaging story, technical proficiency, and a least a little style."

Student Filmmakers, go read the full article. It is invaluable.