Short films are, to me, the poetry of the filmmaking world--in just a small space, the creator of the piece needs to get their point across and make an impact. As a writer, I know how tough that can be to do on the page sometimes, so that's probably why I truly admire the shorts that manage to take on the challenge and not only run with it, but soar. Below, I've picked out five short films--in no particular order--that have recently made me smile, cry, laugh, or sometimes all three.
I found all of these on the always-excellent website Short of the Week, a treasure trove of short films spanning all sorts of genres. If you've never visited the site, I highly recommend it--there's bound to be something(s) that you'll enjoy.
Papa
Directed by Natalie Labarre
This little animated short tells a tale that any parent, or anyone who's felt like they might be letting another person down in any relationship, for that matter, will relate to. A dad tries hard to do his best with his little girl, only to fall short of perfection. When he comes up with a solution that he thinks will finally make his daughter happy, he finds out that flaws and all, he simply can't be replaced. Part of the charm of this film is that it relies on music and sound effects to help move the story along, which lets the viewer concentrate on the animation and discover other sweet nuances.
I Don't Care
Directed by Carolina Giametta
In this touching, sometimes funny short film, an expectant mother is adjusting to the news that her child could be born with Down's Syndrome. Not sure how to feel about this, a chance encounter in a store leads to a part-time job and the opportunity to spend time with a young girl with Down's Syndrome who has a vibrant personality and a big crush on Justin Bieber. One of the most poignant moments in the film comes when the two are looking at some of the little girl's family photos and they come to a collage of children with Down's Syndrome. "These all your friends?," the expectant mother asks. When the little girl says no, she asks again, "Who are these children?" "They're just children" the little girl answers.
(This short was inspired by a photography exhibit, Shifting Perspective, and stars the curators of the exhibit's daughter, who had never acted before this film.)
The Alchemist's Letter
Directed by Carlos Andre Stevens
Lost Property
Directed by Asa Lucander
Dotty
Directed by Brett O' Gorman and Mick Andrews
What about you, readers? Have you seen a short film that left a lasting impression? If you have, please share by telling us about it in the comments.