The Academy Awards have undergone significant changes over the past two decades, from expanding the number of Best Picture nominees to welcoming a more diverse membership and embracing streaming releases as contenders for the top prize. Amidst all this transformation, one constant has remained: ShortsTV’s dedication to showcasing the work of short film nominees across the country. For 20 years, ShortsTV has been instrumental in bringing these films to a growing theatrical audience. This year, the “2025 Oscar Nominated Short Films: Live Action” package is on track to outperform even the box office numbers of a Best Picture nominee like “Nickel Boys,” highlighting the increasing popularity of these concise yet powerful stories.
One of the most compelling entries in this year’s lineup is the Croatian short film “The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent,” directed by Nebojša Slijepčević. Set aboard a train traveling through Bosnia in 1993, this fact-based thriller immerses viewers in the tense experience of its characters. The story follows Dragan, an average man played by Goran Bogdan, who witnesses the separation of Muslim travelers by armed men. The film is a poignant reminder of the moral obligation to resist injustice, drawing from eyewitness testimonies and dedicating itself to Tomo Buzov, a man who paid a high price for challenging the soldiers during that turbulent time.
The Academy has often used the short film categories to highlight political and social issues, sometimes overshadowing the sheer cinematic talent behind these works. This year, however, several nominees strike a balance between activism and artistry. A notable example is Adam J. Graves’ “Anuja,” which tells the story of a 9-year-old girl working in an Indian garment factory. The film’s narrative is enhanced by Graves’ collaboration with the Salaam Baalak Trust, an organization that rescues children from similar situations. By casting a girl who had been rescued herself, Graves not only brings authenticity to the role but also aims to inspire others in similar circumstances.
In contrast, “I’m Not a Robot” by Dutch director Victoria Warmerdam stands out as a film celebrated for its filmmaking prowess rather than its activist message. This clever 22-minute short follows Lara, a woman who begins to question her humanity after failing a CAPTCHA test. The film’s twist—that Lara might actually be a robot—offers a fresh take on the AI debate, leaving viewers to ponder the boundaries between human and machine. Its originality and potential for expansion into a feature-length film make it a standout entry in this year’s shorts.
Another impactful nominee is “A Lien” by sibling filmmakers David and Sam Cutler-Kreutz, which exposes a lesser-known strategy used by U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement. The film follows a family’s harrowing experience as they navigate a bureaucratic nightmare, emphasizing the stress and impersonality of the process. Through tight framing and shaky handheld camera work, the directors amplify the anxiety of the situation, leaving viewers with a powerful critique of U.S. immigration policies.
Finally, “The Last Ranger” by Cindy Lee offers a hopeful perspective on the fight against poaching in an African wildlife preserve. The film follows a young girl named Litha, who joins a ranger named Khusi on a mission to protect rhinos. While the story doesn’t shy away from the harsh realities of the conflict, it ultimately leaves viewers with an uplifting message, thanks to the inclusion of real-life footage of a rhino’s recovery. Lee’s admiration for the real-life heroes who dedicate their lives to wildlife conservation shines through, making this film both emotionally resonant and inspiring.
In conclusion, this year’s Oscar-nominated short films showcase a diverse range of voices, styles, and themes, from gripping thrillers to heartwarming tales of resilience. Each film, in its own way, highlights the power of storytelling to illuminate pressing issues and inspire change. ShortsTV’s continued efforts to bring these films to a wider audience underscore the enduring relevance of the short film format, proving that even the shortest stories can leave a lasting impact.
