Short films not only have stories to tell, but often has something important to say about the current state of humanity. Here’s a small sample of the best socially-relevant shorts qualified for Academy Award consideration in April.
1,2,3 All Eyes on Me
Emil Gallardo takes on the tough subject of school shootings from the perspective of the teacher protecting her students. Senior reviewer Bradley Gibson says 1,2,3, All Eyes on Me “is not a comfortable film to watch.” Raising awareness in short films like this is needed “to stop these attacks from happening.” 1,2,3 All Eyes on Me Full Review.
Twist
Nothing scarier than walking home alone in the dark. Aly Migliori’s Twist addresses toxic masculinity as a gang of thugs intimidate a young woman to do their bidding in a night that seems to never end. Twist Full Review
In France, Michelle is a Man’s Name
There should be no question…parents love your children. Director Em Weinstein spotlights the difficulties at home and in the world as two conservative parents living in the American West decide to publically accept their trans-child. What does a father do? Take his son to a strip club. In France, Michelle is a Man’s Name Full Review.
The Fabric of You
Animation is also an effective storytelling tool and in Josephine Lohoar Self’s debut film, The Fabric of You, she sheds light on what it was like to be gay in the age of McCarthyism. Her mouse figures are amazingly expressive for such a tragic story. The Fabric of You Full Review.
