If nothing else, this year gave us a good batch of nominations in the live action shorts category. Just a side-note, I could swap the placements 2-4 in whichever order because they are equally good.
5. The Neighbors’ Window
A couple in NYC is settled in their routine of being together for a long time and having kids. What unexpectedly brings excitement into their life is the view into their neighbors across the street’s apartment. They see them having sex one day and become obsessed. This is a story of a relationship getting stale, about aging, but also about not appreciating what you have (a „grass is always greener” thing). The film is not bad but not too exciting either and I’m not sure how I feel abut the ending.
4. Une soeur
This short is a real thriller and it reminded me of my favorite live action short from a few years back, DeKalb Elementary. In Une soeur a dispatcher receives a bizarre phone call that turns out to be a from a woman being driven in a car by an abusive partner doing what she can not to let him know that is trying to get help. It is a short that keeps you on the edge, well-acted and perfectly paced.
3. Nefta Football Club
Two brothers find a literal drug mule and steal the drugs. Both brothers are still little kids but the older one is already pretty streetwise so he has plans as to what to do. Let’s just say, they do not exactly work out… The film has cool music, great child actor, and despite being about children living in poverty and stealing drugs, it’s kind of funny.
2. Saria
A true story of an incredibly tragic occurrence in Guatemala. I am not sure if I should write what it is – it happened in real life but also is the finale of the film. The film takes place in an institution for orphans and follows two sisters. Their life in this place is hard and all the kids are subjects to abuse from the guards and other employees. The children try to rebel. It is a tragic tale told with tenderness and respect. An important, very well-made film.
1. Brotherhood
My pick for best live action short is the one with the most beautiful cinematography, as well as an interesting, tragic, and sad premise. The oldest brother comes back to his family after… being with the Islamic State. He brings along his new wife, who is only fourteen years old and pregnant. The father has a really hard time with this entire situation, the mother is trying her best to accept what has happened, the brothers are just happy the oldest is back. The setting is gorgeous and the film truly makes you think about uncomfortable things. This would be my pick for the award.
Swingin' at the Seance 