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By Sean Boelman For the fifteenth year, ShortsTV is releasing the Oscar-nominated short films in all three categories in theaters, allowing audiences across the country and world the unique experience of getting to see these short films in a setting unlike that in which they are usually shown. This also gives the filmmakers of these shorts the opportunity to see their work playing on the big screen, which is often a dream come true. This year’s batch of documentary shorts going for the title is much stronger than usual, each of the films feeling unique in their own way. Perhaps the most intriguing thing about this group of nominees, though, is the fact that they are much more uplifting than is typical for the category. More often than not, multiple tear-jerking (and sometimes even outright depressing) docs dominate the group, but this year, the nominees are much more pleasant as a whole. 5. In the Absence Every year, there is one documentary short that stands out as less deserving of the accolade than the rest, and this year, that is In the Absence. Although the story is certainly very strong and inspiring, the way in which the filmmakers go about approaching it is not particularly effective. Feeling more like an extended news story than a true documentary, this film is messily assembled from haphazardly-captured footage shot on the scene. This film undoubtedly has a ton of potential, but it doesn’t ever pan out into anything particularly compelling. 4. St. Louis Superman Telling the story of an extraordinary subject in such a short period of time, St. Louis Superman feels like it could and should have been expanded into a feature. There are so many sides to this story, but not all of them can be explored to their full depth with a minimal runtime like this. Ultimately, the charisma of the film’s subject makes it naturally entertaining, and the film does address some very timely themes, though this short easily could have been significantly better had it been even just ten or twenty minutes longer. 3. Learning to Skateboard in a Warzone (If You're a Girl) In any other year, Learning to Skateboard in a Warzone (If You’re a Girl) likely would’ve been the best in show, but that only goes to show how strong the crop is this year. Inspiring and well-shot, this film encourages viewers to find time for compassion, even in what seems to be the most difficult of situations. Although the film does lean a bit too heavily into its sentimentality at times (a few overused documentary tropes do make an appearance), it is consistently heartwarming and manages to hold the attention of the viewer for all of its forty-minute runtime. 2. Life Overtakes Me One of the more subtly resonant of the nominees this year, Life Overtakes Me balances its human-oriented story with its political message quite effectively. Out of all of the shorts, this is arguably the one that feels the most cohesive. The story doesn’t feel like it demands a feature-length narrative, but it commands the viewer’s interest for the entirety of the forty-minute runtime. If there is an issue with the film, it is that it doesn’t explore all of the subjects equally. Perhaps the film would have been better off focusing on one of these people’s stories. 1. Walk Run Cha-Cha With a seemingly small-scale but ultimately very important story, Walk Run Cha-Cha is a simple but truly effective documentary short. Functioning as both an inspiring story of two immigrants overcoming the obstacles they have faced and a statement as to how art unites all of us, the film is poetic and beautiful. Culminating in a final sequence that is immensely satisfying, Walk Run Cha-Cha is certainly one of the most moving nominees of this year’s batch. However, unlike many of the recent winners, this isn’t an absolute tear-jerker, so that may not be working in its favor. The 2020 Oscar Nominated Short Films are now playing in theaters.
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By Sean Boelman For the fifteenth year, ShortsTV is releasing the Oscar-nominated short films in all three categories in theaters, allowing audiences across the country and world the unique experience of getting to see these short films in a setting unlike that in which they are usually shown. This also gives the filmmakers of these shorts the opportunity to see their work playing on the big screen, which is often a dream come true. After a particularly weak batch last year, the Academy has redeemed themselves with a mostly strong group of nominees for the live action award. As always, the category has a focus on harder-hitting topics and themes, although none are as outright depressing as some of the ones that have won in the past. Still, viewers shouldn’t expect to watch the nominees feeling uplifted. 5. The Neighbors' Window The only English-language short nominated in this category and perhaps the most widely agreeable of the group, The Neighbors’ Window ultimately suffers from feeling too direct and to the point. The entirety of the film’s message is summed up a bit too nicely in a brief monologue at the end of the film, leaving the viewer feeling like the previous fifteen minutes were somewhat meaningless. There is some merit in this short, but because of this, it feels like the least substantial of any of the nominees. 4. Brotherhood Arguably the most socially relevant nominee, but also the least satisfying short nominated, Brotherhood can’t be faulted for lack of ambition, though it feels like its premise would have been better-suited to a feature-length runtime. There is a lot happening in the narrative in this short, and while the themes the film addresses are certainly important and some of the commentary insightful, there simply isn’t enough time in the film for all of the threads to be developed. However, the film is absolutely gorgeous, particularly in terms of its cinematography, so despite its narrative shortcomings, it earns its spot on this list. 3. Nefta Football Club The only nominee out of the five films that isn’t emotionally draining, Nefta Football Club is a (relatively) feel-good comedy about the joys of childhood friendship. Although there is a bit of a bittersweet edge to the film — the sense of humor is extremely dark — it is a welcome relief when put against the stressful and/or depressing nature of the other four shorts. The chemistry between the two child actors is great, developing naturally over such a short period of time, and is likely the main reason why this short works so well. 2. A Sister Without a doubt the most intense nominee out of this year’s batch, A Sister takes advantage of its confined setting and minimal premise to deliver a lean and suspenseful thriller. Although there was a feature-length film (The Guilty) that did something similar, A Sister still feels fresh and necessary thanks to the timely themes it addresses and the exquisite craftsmanship with which it is told. Ultimately, this short feels a lot more low-key than some of the other contenders, and likely won’t get as much attention as a result, but it is probably the best-shot of the bunch. 1. Saria Admittedly a bit rough around the edges, Saria nonetheless proves itself to be the short most worthy of this award thanks to its timely themes and character-driven approach to its true story. In just over twenty minutes, the film is able to connect the audience to this group of girls to a point that the film becomes absolutely heartbreaking. Unfortunately, the film will likely be passed up in favor of one of the ones dealing with a more hot-topic issue, but this exploration of the failures of the orphanage system is undeniably riveting. The 2020 Oscar Nominated Short Films open in theaters on January 29.
By Sean Boelman For the fifteenth year, ShortsTV is releasing the Oscar-nominated short films in all three categories in theaters, allowing audiences across the country and world the unique experience of getting to see these short films in a setting unlike that in which they are usually shown. This also gives the filmmakers of these shorts the opportunity to see their work playing on the big screen, which is often a dream come true. This year’s batch of animated shorts nominated for the award is about as one would expect, as the Academy has become relatively predictable in the films they nominate in this category. As always, the category will likely be won by the contender from the mainstream studio, but some of the indie shorts are very wonderful as well. The animated shorts program shown in theaters also contains three other films that were not nominated for the award, but those are not ranked in this article. 5. Daughter As is always the case with this category, there is one film in the mix that is a depressing tear-jerker, and this year, that is Daughter. Although there is a lot of merit in this film, and it is understandable why it earned a nomination, it doesn’t quite seem to hit all of its intended beats. Yes, it does have some absolutely stunning sequences, but the visuals aren’t able to compensate for a narrative that feels overly safe. Unlike some of the other contenders nominated for this award, this film doesn’t earn the emotional reaction it elicits. 4. Sister Inarguably the most unusual contender on this list, the highly personal (and surprisingly political) short Sister packs quite a bit of material into its brief runtime but also packs quite the punch. Ultimately, the film’s third act twist feels a bit manipulative, but it does a good job of driving the film’s message home. Still, one can’t help but feel like there is more to be told from this story, and that an animated short like this may not have been the method to do so. Thankfully, there are more resources available on the issue, including a well-made documentary that was also released in 2019. 3. Kitbull Released by Disney/Pixar under their SparkShorts label, Kitbull likely would have been the favorite to win this award if only it had been released theatrically alongside one of their features. Alas, the Disney+ release for this cute, if somewhat insubstantial short will likely cement its position as one of the long shots, even despite the brand name. Certainly adorable, with admirable character design and a sweet story, Kitbull is an admirable film, but it arguably isn’t the best to have been released under the label. With the era of Pixar shorts accompanying their features in theaters coming to an end, so too it seems that the company’s usual reign in this category is over. 2. Hair Love From Sony Pictures Animation (the film received a theatrical release along with The Angry Birds Movie 2), Hair Love is the obvious favorite to win the title as this year’s best animated short film. With a touching story and some extremely creative animation, the talent in the visual storytelling that is present here is undeniably very impressive. Though the film’s narrative is a bit safe, it is packed with emotion, and it is unlikely to leave any viewer unmoved. Additionally, there is a ton of personality in the visual style, with some excellent character designs and some unique effects. This is the type of all-around well-made and crowd-pleasing short that usually triumphs in this category, so don’t expect the Academy to bring any surprises. 1. Memorable Although it is unlikely to receive the award (as mentioned before, the Academy tends to recognize the higher-profile contenders in this category), Memorable is arguably the most deserving nominee of the bunch. Featuring a beautiful story that deals with an absolutely heartbreaking topic, this film is heartbreaking in all the right ways. Furthermore, the film features a truly gorgeous and thoroughly creative visual style. The amount of detail present in this short is extremely impressive, from the texture of the characters to the design of the sets. In terms of both style and content, this is reminiscent of the recent animated masterpiece Anomalisa, and as such, it will have plenty of fans of its own. The 2020 Oscar Nominated Short Films open in theaters on January 29.
by Camden Ferrell  Before Sunrise was released in theaters 25 years ago, and since then, it has risen the ranks as one of the most poignant modern love stories. Richard Linklater has never strayed from exploring the human condition and what it means to connect with someone, and this film is a testament to his ability as a filmmaker. This is a movie that captures two people falling in love in an achingly beautiful way, and it has aged gracefully. The premise of this movie is incredibly simple. Two people, Jesse and Celine, meet on a train and engage in a nice discussion. As Jesse is about the leave the train, he asks Celine to leave and spend the day with him. Surely enough, they both leave the train and spend an unforgettable day together where they learn more about each other and themselves. It’s a story that is propelled by the interactions of its characters, and it doesn’t rely on any gimmicks or major plot devices to remain thoroughly charming and entertaining. The script is penned by Linklater and Kim Krizan with some uncredited help from both lead actors. This collaboration makes each character feel unique and properly developed in their mannerisms and actions. What’s so remarkable is how much of ourselves we see in these characters, and it makes their journey feel especially personal. The dialogue doesn’t force insight or humor, it lets all of its topics and discussion arise naturally in way that is evocative of real life. This film is led by Ethan Hawke and Julie Delpy who both deliver phenomenal performances. Their chemistry is palpable, and their relationship is one of the most beautiful things in film. Both actors give their characters life in a way that feels completely realistic and incredibly engaging. Their performances remind the audience what it’s like to fall in love for the first time, and it’s extremely powerful in that regard.  I see this movie as a fantasy grounded in reality. These two lovers allow themselves to escape their lives just for one day. It feels like a dream, but it’s rooted heavily in the real world. Even though they are discussing heavy moral and philosophical topics, it still maintains that atmosphere of infatuation and wonder that makes it so charming. It allows us to see the best in others and truly appreciate the time that we have. It’s effective in illustrating concepts of life, death and love, and it makes us think about all of our previous and current relationships. For the audience, it digs up memories and feelings that may have felt long gone, and it presents it in a way that feels comforting and empathetic.
It’s an undeniably sweet film that mercilessly tugs at your heartstrings. Whether you’re currently in love or going through a rough separation, this movie will find a way to speak to you in a unique way. It’s a nearly universal exploration of love and connection, and it creates a longing that we will all inevitably crave by the end of the movie. Its full of memorable and cute moments that really make the film special. The listening booth scene will never fail to bring me to such joyful tears, and there are many romantic and poetic moments like that scattered throughout. This is a film for all ages, persuasions, and tastes. It is still a timely story even though the times have changed drastically. The movie wrestles with complex human emotions and puts it into words better than anyone ever could have. Does it come off as sappy at times? Yes, but it’s the subtext that really give this film a deeper meaning. It’s not just about love. It’s about what we love, who we love, and why we love. Everyone wants to have this kind of emotional connection, and its an innate desire that continues to speak loudly to this day. After 25 years, Before Sunrise remains an essential piece of modern filmmaking. Its one of the most effective and memorable examinations of the human relationship, and it’s one that spawned two sequels which were equally brilliant. This remains one of the finest films in Linklater’s impressive filmography, and it’s one that is definitely worth revisiting over and over. By Sean Boelman It’s January, and in the film industry that means two things: film festivals and lackluster mainstream releases. In the snowy paradise that is Park City, Utah, the annual tradition of coming together to watch as many films as possible has begun. However, what is unique about Park City this time of year is that there are two film festivals taking place concurrently! The Sundance Film Festival features higher profile releases and the Slamdance Film Festival showcases some wonderful up-and-coming or underground talents. Although disappointment media won’t have any staff writers on the ground this year, we are providing remote coverage to help guide you through some of the most interesting films coming out of both festivals. In this article, we highlight four films (two from each festival) that we have already gotten to see from this year’s lineups and explain why we think that you should give them a shot too! Ema (Sundance) Mariana DiGirolamo appears in Ema by Pablo Larraín, an official selection of the Spotlight program at the 2020 Sundance Film Festival. Courtesy of Sundance Institute. After making waves at its debut at the 2019 Venice Film Festival and subsequent showings at TIFF and the London Film Festival (among others), director Pablo Larraín’s (Jackie, Neruda) eighth feature Ema was selected to screen as a part of Sundance’s Spotlight program. Telling the story of a family in crisis after a tragedy forces them to make a controversial decision, Ema shows Larraín at his best, blending intricate character work with the hypnotic artistry of a dance film. Almost like the even more gut-wrenching and emotional cousin of Gaspar Noé’s Climax, Larraín’s film is a visual feast, but it also contains plenty of substance in the script. And to top it off, actors Gael García Bernal and Mariana Di Girolamo both give phenomenal performances. This is the film not to miss at this year’s festival. Jasper Mall (Slamdance) Although a film about a dying mall might not immediately strike one as essential viewing, the feature documentary by Bradford Thomason (in his directorial debut) and Brett Whitcomb is arguably one of the most successful fly-on-the-wall documentaries to come out in a very long time. Exploring the demise of a shopping center in small town Alabama as a representation of the greater issues faced in the modern American economy, the Slamdance Documentary Competition entry Jasper Mall is an admittedly simple film, but it is an effective one at that. With their minimalistic and character-driven approach, Thomason and Whitcomb take this story even further, crafting an eye-opening tale of the struggle of the middle class. Anyone who grew up going to the mall will leave this film heartbroken about the death of small business in America. Jumbo (Sundance) Having gotten a lot of attention upon its announcement in the lineup for Sundance’s World Cinema Dramatic Competition for its bizarre premise, Zoé Wittock’s film Jumbo is a brilliant, surreal, and unforgettable romantic fantasy. Telling the story of an amusement park worker who falls in love with a tilt-a-whirl ride, this is the type of weird vision that film festivals are meant to discover. While the premise may be off-putting to mainstream audiences, Wittock handles the absurd story in a way that feels both witty and heartfelt. Additionally, lead actress Noémie Merlant (of Portrait of a Lady on Fire fame) gives a wonderful performance and will likely be the main draw of the film. This film will satisfy any festival goer’s craving for weird and whimsy. Animation Outlaws (Slamdance) Featuring many high-profile interviewees, the Slamdance special screening Animation Outlaws is tailor-made for any fan of animation. Detailing the history of Spike & Mike’s Festival of Animation, a roadshow of animated shorts that originated before the internet made the medium more widely available, the film includes clips from many of the films that played in the showcase, along with interviews with some recognizable faces from the industry including Pete Docter (Inside Out), Nick Park (Wallace and Gromit), and Weird Al Yankovic. Also notable about the film is director Kat Aloshin’s unique style, using an animated background behind the talking head interviews and many animated sequences to bridge the gap. This is truly a crowd-pleasing treat. That is just a sampling of the many wonderful offerings held at the 2020 Sundance and Slamdance film festivals. If you are in Park City experiencing either festival, it is worth the time checking out the other one too, as each features plenty of unique films that you may not get to see anywhere else, or at least not in the same way.
The 2020 Slamdance Film Festival runs January 24-30 in Park City, UT. The 2020 Sundance Film Festival runs January 23 through February 2 in Park City, UT. |