Almost all movie and TV show formats have been bought by Netflix and made available to the public. Therefore, it should come as no surprise that they have a sizable library of short films, which are significantly shorter than typical feature-length films and documentaries. These movies will therefore satisfy your need to watch something brief but spectacular.
Anuja (2024)
Filmmaker Mira Nair founded the Delhi-based NGO Salaam Baalak Trust, which is supporting Adam J. Graves’ short film “Anuja.” It focuses on Anuja, a nine-year-old child, and her older sister, Palak, who work in a clothing factory and are disadvantaged. Anuja has to make a choice that will alter both of their lives in ways they could never have predicted when the chance to enroll in a boarding school presents itself. The movie becomes a moving and dramatic reflection on what lies ahead for Anuja and Palak as well as other children who are destined to live on the streets as we watch the two children navigate their run-down surroundings, which are a part of their everyday lives. “Anuja,” which is nominated for Best Live Action Short Film at the 97th Academy Awards, is a tale of sisterhood and its fortitude in the face of extreme adversity. You can watch it live here.
The Only Girl in the Orchestra (2023)
“The Only Girl in the Orchestra,” which was directed by Molly O’Brien, honors the life of double bassist Orin O’Brien, who was hired by famed conductor Leonard Bernstein in 1966 and became the first female full-time member of the New York Philharmonic. By combining interviews between Orin and her pupils, old photos, and more, Molly O’Brien, Orin’s niece, gives a brief overview of the musician’s life, work, and philosophy in the movie. The stunning documentary is available to view here.
Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World (2024)
The focus of Julio Palacio’s documentary short “Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World” is 14-year-old Makayla Cain, who is non-verbal due to a unique form of autism. But self-expression always finds a way out, and with the help of an expert, we are able to explore Makayla’s inner world using a letterboard, which she uses to communicate her ideas and feelings. “Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World” is a stunning drama that earned numerous honors at film festivals around the nation. It emphasizes the ageless power of creativity and expression. It is available to view here.
The Unauthorized Bash Brothers Experience (2019)
“The Unauthorized Bash Brothers Experience,” a “visual poem” featuring actor Andy Samberg and Lonely Island member Akiva Schaffer, was created by the comedy rap duo The Lonely Island. The performers portray Mark McGwire and Jose Canseco, two of the greatest baseball players in Oakland Athletic history, in this unique work of art. It pays homage to the legends with a ridiculous combination of imagery and language. The only way to adequately describe the 30-minute video is to watch it, appreciate it, and interpret it in your own unique way. The “experience” is available to you right here.
Camp Courage (2023)
A young Ukrainian girl named Milana and her grandmother, Olga, are followed as they travel to a summer camp in the Austrian Alps in the short documentary “Camp Courage,” which was directed by Max Lowe. Along with other war-affected families, Milana and Olga are refugees from the Russia-Ukraine War, and the act of ascending a mountain together becomes a symbol of resistance during a conflict. But beneath all of the power lies an unending suffering that acts as a continual reminder that all wars must end, particularly for the sake of our future generations. “Camp Courage” is available to view here.
Canvas (2020)
It would defeat the purpose of a nine-minute short film to tell you its plot. All we can say about this stunning, charming, and endearing film directed by Frank E. Abney III is that it tells the story of a bereaved grandfather whose suffering has caused him to lose his love of painting until it is rekindled. How? Love, however, can take many different forms. You can play “Canvas” here to see what we mean.
The After (2023)
“The After” centers on Dayo (David Oyelowo), a London taxi driver. Dayo took the profession in an attempt to recover from a particularly terrible tragedy, but to the average person, he is simply another driver making a living. As he attempts to integrate into other people’s lives in an attempt to escape his own, he finds himself facing a very familiar face that forces him to face his painful history. Could it save him? Misan Harriman is the director of the Oscar-nominated short film “The After.” It is available to view here.
One Last Shot (1998)
Mike Clattenburg, the Gemini Award winner, has produced a short film that serves as a precursor to the “Trailer Park Boys” television series. Before Rob relocates to Vancouver to launch a business, it follows two closest friends, Rob (Robb Wells) and Gary (John Paul Tremblay), as they have a night out drinking alcohol. However, there is an unspoken truth that could make or ruin their relationship. What is it? You may view the movie here to find out.
What Did Jack Do? (2017)
In this documentary-short, which was written and directed by the legendary David Lynch, a detective (played by Lynch) is questioning a monkey named Jack about a possible murder. Is he going to admit to the crime? You may view this eerie, gritty black-and-white movie here to find out.
The Elephant Whisperers (2022)
Kartiki Gonsalves is the director of the documentary “The Elephant Whisperers.” The film, which is set in the picturesque Mudumalai National Park, deftly examines the close relationship between an orphaned baby elephant named Raghu and an indigenous couple, Bomman and Bellie. The spectator follows the couple’s struggles and dedication as they work to restore the frail Raghu’s health as the story progresses.
This moving video highlights the rich tapestry of Indian culture and its longstanding practice of environmental conservation in addition to capturing the spirit of human-animal relationships. The short, which has won an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short short, deftly addresses themes of love, sacrifice, and coexistence, earning its spot on this list. It is available to view here.
Forgive Us Our Trespasses (2022)
This moving short, which was directed by Ashley Eakin, takes place in 1939 Germany and introduces us to young Peter (Knox Gibson), whose right limb has been severed. Paul cannot understand why Adolf Hitler has ordered the eradication of those who are physically unfit. He also questions Eva (Hanneke Talbot), his mother, about it. However, little Paul makes a choice that will alter his life forever when Nazi soldiers show up at their home and his mother orders him to hide in a hidden location. You can view “Forgive Us Our Trespasses” here to learn more about that.
Two Distant Strangers (2020)
Travon Free wrote and Martin Desmond Roe directed the short sci-fi drama film “Two Distant Strangers.” The video immerses viewers in the terrifying world of cartoonist Carter James, who is trapped in an endless time loop, in a chilling depiction of déjà vu. He must continuously relive the same terrible day because every day’s trip home to his cherished puppy ends in a deadly encounter with Officer Merk.
The film serves as a sobering reminder of the frequent and sad deaths of Black Americans during police contacts, and it stars Joey Bada$$, Andrew Howard, and Zaria Simone in key parts. A stunning climax that recounts the names of Black Americans who have tragically lost their lives marks the end of the story, which oscillates between periods of hope and despair. Securing the 93rd Academy Awards’ Best Live Action Short Film title, the film firmly establishes its place on the list by addressing systematic racism and police violence in a moving manner. You may view it here.
If Anything Happens, I Love You (2020)
Will McCormack and Michael Govier are the directors of the animated drama “If Anything Happens, I Love You.” Following the devastating loss of their daughter in a school shooting, two parents traverse the abyssal depths of their grief in an eerily quiet setting. Their journey is carefully depicted in the animated movie, which offers a genuine and moving portrayal of regret, grief, and the difficult path to acceptance.
By emphasizing the parents’ inner conflict and the ghosts of their memories, the simple black-and-white animation only serves to heighten the emotional impact. The film, which won Best Animated Short Film at the 93rd Academy Awards, strikes a deep chord with viewers and highlights the terrible reality that many families must deal with in the modern world. This movie deserves to be on this list because it explores the depths of human emotion and the devastating impact of loss. You are welcome to view the film here.
Anima (2019)
Paul Thomas Anderson is the director of the short musical film “Anima.” Anima, which was created by Thom Yorke, is an experience that transcends the realm of cinema. This visual spectacle, which goes with Yorke’s third studio album, combines apocalyptic themes with captivating dancing. In the middle of a sea of travelers in uniform, Yorke’s character tries to connect with a woman, played by Dajana Roncione. They conjure feelings of longing, isolation, and ephemeral moments of connection with their ethereal dance performances set against strange backdrops. It’s a philosophical voyage through an evocative soundscape, with inspirations ranging from the humorous charm of Charlie Chaplin to dystopian classics like Metropolis and Nineteen Eighty-Four. The film’s inventive fusion of music and visual storytelling is evidenced by its Grammy nomination for Best Music Film. The movie is available here.
Cops and Robbers (2020)
The film “Cops and Robbers,” which was directed by Arnon Manor and Timothy Ware-Hill, combines activism, literary commentary, and animation to offer a potent reaction to the murder of hate crime victim Ahmaud Arbery. The short video, which focuses on a poem by Broadway performer Ware-Hill against racism and police violence, uses a montage of animation and visual effects techniques. You may stream “Cops and Robbers” here.
The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023)
Wes Anderson is the director of the adventure comedy “The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar.” The first of Wes Anderson’s four-part series of short films based on Roald Dahl’s work, this movie is based on the author’s short story of the same name. The story revolves around Henry Sugar, a wealthy bachelor who uses his inherited wealth to feed his gambling addiction. His life is altered by the strange discovery of a book about Imdad Khan, a guy who has the rare capacity to see without the use of his eyes. After discovering Imdad’s method, Henry spends three years perfecting it. After using his newly discovered talent at a casino, he becomes aware of the moral ramifications of his behavior.
Dahl’s magical realism and Wes Anderson’s whimsical filmmaking combine to create an enthralling visual experience. Combining a gripping story with a strong ensemble cast that includes Benedict Cumberbatch, Ralph Fiennes, Dev Patel, Ben Kingsley, and Richard Ayoade, the film not only emphasizes the transformational potential of self-discovery and self-realization but also shows how effective short films can be at enthralling viewers. You may view it here.
The Swan (2023)
The second installment of Wes Anderson’s four-part short film series based on Roald Dahl’s novel is a short thriller. Rupert Friend narrates the movie, which introduces us to Peter Watson, a bright youngster who has a natural affinity for birds. His life takes a dark turn when two heartless bullies seek him out, with Ernie spearheading the brutality. Asa Jennings and Ralph Fiennes have important parts in the movie.
Wes Anderson departs from his signature approach to explore the emotional terrain of tragedy, resiliency, and the human spirit’s unwavering determination to overcome hardship. Anderson’s unmatched storytelling skills are demonstrated by the eerie plot, small cast, and devoted devotion to Dahl’s original masterpiece. “The Swan” is a cinematic masterpiece that evokes more intense emotions than many full-length films by condensing a wide range of emotions into a condensed 17-minute frame. “The Swan” is available for viewing here.
The Rat Catcher (2023)
In just 17 minutes, the third installment of Wes Anderson’s four-part series of short films based on Roald Dahl, “The Rat Catcher,” demonstrates the filmmaker’s mastery of narrative. The movie presents a distinctive viewpoint on the creatures that society frequently ignores or fears, appealing to basic human concerns. Ralph Fiennes’s portrayal of the mysterious “Rat Catcher” is a representation of this story, combining fear and pity in equal measure. Anderson’s decision to use animation heightens the dreamlike ambiance and transports viewers on an unanticipated emotional journey.
The ensemble cast, which includes Richard Ayoade and Rupert Friend, highlights Dahl’s rich narrative, and Anderson’s distinctive aesthetic makes for an engaging viewing experience. Robert Yeoman’s cinematography skillfully combines the whimsical pleasure of the film with its sinister overtones. Heartbreaking and thought-provoking, the picture highlights the hazy boundaries between the compassionate and the monster, paying a fitting homage to Dahl’s narrative. Wes Anderson’s capacity to innovate and adapt while adhering to Roald Dahl’s renowned narrative is demonstrated by this short film. Viewers are both scared and enlightened by this dark, convoluted journey, which makes them consider the true nature of monsters and the civilization that breeds them. Here, you can participate in the experience as well.
Poison (2023)
“Poison,” Wes Anderson’s gripping examination of fear, perception, and human weakness, marks the end of his Roald Dahl series. The plot, which is set in an Indian house from the colonial era, takes a dramatic turn as Timber and Dr. Ganderbai are in a race against time. Benedict Cumberbatch’s portrayal of Harry emphasizes the palpable gravity of the impending danger while providing a masterclass in controlled fear. The chemistry between Ben Kingsley’s Dr. Ganderbai and Dev Patel’s Timber heightens the obvious tension that Anderson so deftly creates.
In a brief amount of time, Anderson masterfully maintains an almost claustrophobic intensity, keeping audiences on edge until the film’s shocking conclusion. The recognition of an imaginary danger serves as a potent metaphor for the frequently illogical anxieties that afflict people and a remark on the mental anguish that can result from perception alone. The story is made more complex by Anderson’s subtle portrayal of colonial-era India, which veers between the magical and the terrifying. It makes a lasting impression as the last book in Anderson’s Dahl trilogy, challenging readers to consider the phantoms they have created for themselves as well as the essence of terror. The short is available to stream online.
All in My Family (2019)
The story, which was written, directed, and created by Hao Wu, is a first-hand narrative of his family’s acceptance of his same-sex marriage and his own children. Hao Wu is a Chinese filmmaker, and because of his conservative family, it was difficult to open up to them about his life in America. This 40-minute short documentary sheds light on his specific path. It is difficult to break free from the background that forms our thinking when long-standing traditions are questioned. It’s a long and difficult journey from that initial reality check to eventually accepting and rationalizing change. Hao Wu’s candid and intimate journey takes us through each of those stages as he contrasts his traditional Chinese family with his American one, complete with children. The film is available for viewing here.
The Claudia Kishi Club (2020)
Claudia Kishi is a fictitious character from Ann M. Martin’s “Baby-Sitters Club” novel series from the 1980s. One of the first examples of a character of Asian descent in popular culture may be Claudia Kishi. Few of these characters were thought to be free of stereotypes at the time. Her character resonated with many Eastern girls, who were motivated to view themselves differently. Many adults who read the “Baby-Sitters Club” novels as children are interviewed for this video about the influence of Claudia Kishi on their life. The movie is available for viewing here.
ReMastered: Who Shot the Sheriff? (2018)
An exclusive Netflix documentary series called ReMastered shows us the pivotal events in a musician’s life. Bob Marley, a reggae pioneer and one of the best-selling musicians of all time, is the subject of this specific episode. The 1976 assassination attempt on Bob Marley is the focus of the documentary. He was enmeshed in the conflict between Michael Manley’s social-democratic People’s National Party and Edward Seaga’s conservative Jamaica Labour Party. Seaga and the CIA may have been involved in the assassination attempt on Bob Marley, who escaped the assault with only minor injuries to his arm and chest, according to this documentary. You are welcome to view the movie here.
Ram Dass, Going Home (2018)
We meet American spiritual teacher Baba Ram Dass toward the end of his life in Derek Peck’s documentary. This documentary is worth seeing since it follows a calm and patient man as he comes to grips with his own fate. Peck sensitively presents Ram Dass in a sympathetic and respectful light rather than making his subject seem larger than life. His life in Maui, where he resided after having a stroke twenty years prior, is the main subject of the short film. In his final years, Ram Dass expands his spiritual practice and discusses the value of love. “Ram Dass, Going Home” is available for viewing here.
ReMastered: Devil at the Crossroads (2019)
Robert Johnson was arguably the 27 Club’s most elusive and enigmatic member and a major impact on succeeding generations of artists. People speculate that the blues artist may have sold his soul to the Devil in exchange for his musical abilities because of his extraordinary talent. During his short 27-year life, he composed just 29 songs and rose to prominence as one of the greatest guitarists of his era, helping to create later musical styles. The purpose of this documentary is to provide more light on Johnson’s life and musical career. You may view it here.
What Would Sophia Loren Do? (2021)
Ross Kauffman is the director of “What Would Sophia Loren Do?”is a brief documentaries. The main emphasis of the film is the lives of an Italian-American grandmother and mother who has always admired actress Sophia Loren and found joy and strength in her work. The documentary exposes the unexpected influence that famous people frequently have on their followers, who live hundreds of miles away without ever meeting them or learning about their lives. “What Would Sophia Loren Do?” is available for viewing.here.
Lorena, Light-Footed Woman (2019)
This Juan Carlos Rulfo-directed Mexican documentary, which was originally in Spanish, tells the story of long-distance runner Lorena Ramirez. Lorena, a member of the Raramuri group from Mexico’s Chihuahua region, gracefully possesses the skill of long-distance running for which her people are renowned. The group takes pleasure in being “light-footed,” which is what “Raramuri” signifies. Her nearly superhuman capacity to run incredibly long marathons—up to 100 kilometers—while wearing her traditional outfit of sandals and a floral skirt is what is so amazing about Lorena. The documentary, which lasts about 30 minutes, tells a compelling story of a female athlete who remains loyal to both her Indigenous heritage and her background. The movie is available to stream online.
The Trader (2018)
What if you find yourself in an area where the only money is potatoes? What if potatoes are more precious than money? Although it seems humorous, the winner of the Sundance jury award for nonfiction is anything but. It describes Georgia’s struggle as a republic suffocated by desperation and poverty. Hunger, unemployment, and a lack of money to support themselves are all problems that the people are facing, and there doesn’t appear to be any end in sight. The length and brevity of this heartbreaking tale will leave you feeling hollow for a while. “The Trader” is available for streaming here.
ReMastered: Tricky Dick & the Man in Black (2018)
The relationship between American President Richard Nixon and country music star Johnny Cash at one of the most turbulent times in American history is depicted in this short film. The video, which lasts for almost an hour, shows how things transpired after Johnny Cash accepted an invitation to perform in the White House. We witness how Cash begins to metaphorically travel in the opposite direction, even while Nixon discovers a common thread between the two of them and their life path. The documentary demonstrates how politics and music are intertwined, shedding light on the power of art and its influence in the real world. The background of the movie, with its conflicting views on the Vietnam War and the conflicts between the counterculture and the establishment, is what most sticks out. It is available for streaming here.
End Game (2018)
Rob Epstein and Jeffrey Friedman are the directors of the short documentary “End Game.” The movie highlights the doctors, mostly from San Francisco, who, by providing their patients with more than simply palliative care, are attempting to alter the public’s perception of death and life in general. The documentary, which naturally focuses on patients who are near death, provides a poignant and poignant look at some of life’s most important moments and the lasting effects of decisions people make during them. Thus, “End Game” can be the ideal option for you if you want to see something that makes you think about life in a different way. The film is available for viewing here.
Fire in Paradise (2019)
In 2018, California experienced the deadliest fire the state had ever seen in the town of Paradise. Through in-person interviews and first-hand video, directors Zackary Canepari and Drea Cooper relive the tragedy from the perspectives of the survivors and first responders. The fire was the deadliest of the century for the state of California, destroying the town of Paradise and killing 85 people. After winning the Hamptons International Film Festival’s Audience Award for Best Short Film, this movie emerged as a serious Oscar contender. The movie is available for viewing here.
Extremis (2016)
This short documentary, which won an award, is as authentic as it gets. It details the life-or-death choices made by the relatives of patients who are near death. As a documentary, it effectively conveys feelings of indecision, vulnerability, and the anguish of losing a loved one. We observe the internal struggles of medical professionals, nurses, and support personnel, the different ways that terminally ill individuals exercise their right to a dignified death, and the tragic circumstances that the families had to deal with at the time. You are welcome to view the movie here.
Zion (2018)
The most recent addition to this list is Zion. The amazing tale of Zion Clark, who was raised in foster care after being born without legs, is truly remarkable. Floated from foster home to foster family during his formative years after his mother abandoned him, he endured a significant deal of abuse and hostility from others. He nevertheless made the most of his life and skills in spite of that. Within its 11-minute duration, the story is powerful, and Zion’s emotional fortitude is admirable. “Zion” is available for viewing here.
Resurface (2017)
Josh Izenberg, the director, has created a poignant story about PTSD in military veterans. The brief documentary tells the tale of Bobby Lane, an Iraq War veteran who is experiencing extreme melancholy and suicidal thoughts following his release from the military. Before he commits suicide, he wants to do one thing on his bucket list: surf. However, as luck would have it, surfing altered his outlook on life and his emotional state. The tranquility of the wide ocean itself and the therapeutic benefits of surfing are major contributors. Research-based facts and the emotional connection to these damaged combat heroes are both present in the short. The movie is available to stream online.
Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower (2017)
While browsing Netflix’s vast library, you really can’t miss this docudrama. Joshua Wong, a 14-year-old Hong Kong child, is the subject of “Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower,” which chronicles his resistance to the enormous Chinese Communist regime. After the Chinese stormed Hong Kong in 1997, the city was promised autonomy soon after. However, as time went on and pro-communist lessons were introduced in Hong Kong schools, the promise was completely destroyed. Joshua enters the picture at this point. In order to revoke propaganda-based teachings and remind China of its unfulfilled promise, he and other like-minded individuals united. The nature of rebellion against a Leviathan-like system is the subject of this poignant and insightful documentary. “Joshua: Teenager vs. Superpower” is available to stream here.
The Speed Cubers (2020)
Sue Kim co-produced and directed the documentary “Speed Cubers,” which starred Max Park and Feliks Zemdegs. The competitive sport of speed-cubing, which has gained international popularity in recent years, is the main subject of the movie. Before a lesser-known competitor from California took home the gold medal in 2017, Feliks Zemdegs dominated the sport for a number of years and established himself as the greatest of all time. The entire documentary centers on the camaraderie and rivalry that developed between the two fastest cubers in the planet as a result of their unexpected victory. “The Speed Cubers” provides insightful information about the experiences and potential obstacles of the Rubik’s Cube-solving champions. It is available for streaming here.
Heroin(e) (2017)
This story centers on the opioid crisis, a highly unique problem in contemporary American culture that could have major effects on the country’s social structure in the future. Some areas are suffering more than others due to the sharp rise in opioid drug use in the United States. Huntington, West Virginia, is one such community where the overdose rate is over ten times greater than the national average. The title honors three strong local women who are doing everything in their power to combat this growing issue. It highlights a significant issue that has beset America in recent years and is incredibly moving. The film is available for viewing here.
The White Helmets (2016)
Nearly everyone is aware of the situation in war-torn Syria and the residents’ hellish condition because of global media and internet technology. As we witness the magnitude of human damage, we also witness the restoration of human faith by ordinary citizens. The brave individuals in the white helmets have dedicated their lives to rescuing people from beneath the debris in Aleppo, Syria. An actual documentary about the triumph of destruction over humanity and the humanitarian efforts of those stranded in the middle of the conflict. The movie is available for viewing here.
Period. End of Sentence. (2019)
The life of Arunachalam Muruganantham, who played a key role in spearheading India’s menstrual hygiene revolution, served as the inspiration for this Oscar-winning documentary. The village of Hapur in North India, where women lacked access to menstrual hygiene supplies, serves as the setting for this video. Many adolescent girls drop out of school due to the stigma associated with menstruation and the lack of access to basic requirements. When a sanitary pad vending machine is put in the community and the women learn how to make and sell the pads they produce, everything changes. Rayka Zehtabchi, the filmmaker, and Guneet Monga, the producer, brought this inspirational tale to the big screen. The movie is available here.
Out of Many, One (2018)
John Hoffman and Nanfu Wang’s documentary “Out of Many, One” on Netflix provides a much-needed look at the politics of immigration while illuminating the nation’s long-standing sociopolitical problems. Approximately one out of every five immigrants worldwide decided to settle in America, demonstrating the nation’s uniqueness and the promise of a better life it provides. However, there are difficulties associated with relocating abroad, and these difficulties are made more complex by domestic politics. You are welcome to view the film here.
