Short films that are a must watch
Short films are a powerful form of artistic expression. Producers and animators pour their hearts into every frame, crafting stories that are truly worth your time and attention. So, let’s dive into some beautifully told, emotionally rich short films that deserve to be seen!
- If anything happens I love you
If Anything Happens I Love You is a sketchbook-style animated short film, predominantly in black and white, with a runtime of just 12 minutes, and trust me, it’s a must-watch. This powerful short film on grief, loss, and healing is both visually striking and emotionally gutting.
Without using many words, it beautifully captures the silent, aching aftermath of tragedy, offering a soul-touching reflection on life, love, and loss. Audiences also appreciated the perfect use of the song “1950” by King Princess, which blends seamlessly into the narrative like it was meant to be there all along. Available to stream on Netflix, If Anything Happens I Love You is one of those emotional short films you shouldn’t miss, no matter what!
- Napo
Napo is an exceptionally beautiful short film that runs for around 16 minutes, yet leaves a lasting impact. It explores the power of memories, the unspoken bond between a grandfather and grandson, and the quiet resilience of family love in the face of illness. The animation is artistically crafted, seamlessly blending present-day scenes with flashbacks, creating a visually immersive experience.
What makes Napo even more special is its ability to move audiences without a single word. One YouTube comment sums it up perfectly: “This made me cry so bad. Not even a single word was spoken, but the emotions reached out.” With over 11 international awards and 8 festival nominations, Napo has truly touched hearts across the globe. You can stream this heartfelt animated short film on YouTube whenever you’re in the mood for something heartfelt and real.
- Radha
Radha is a short film that weaves emotionally rich storytelling with soulful simplicity, and it’s no surprise that viewers have showered it with love. There’s nothing flashy here, just beautifully detailed animation, gentle music, and those small, tender moments that quietly steal your heart.
With a 20-minute runtime, Radha gives you just enough time to truly soak in the emotions on screen. Directed and edited by Bimal Poddar, this 2020 release transports you to the longing, innocence, and warmth of childhood in a way that words often fail to describe. The animation is stunning – each frame lets you feel the emotions as if they’re your own memories.
Available to watch on YouTube, Radha is a national award-winning masterpiece, having won the 67th National Film Award for Best Animated Short Film and Best Audiography. It also received the Dadasaheb Phalke Award at the 17th Mumbai International Film Festival and was featured at the 51st International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. If you’re searching for a touching animated short film that stays with you, Radha is an absolute must-watch.
- Follow your Heart by Omeleto
Follow Your Heart comes with a unique perspective and a distinct way of storytelling. With a runtime of 7 minutes and 20 seconds, the film beautifully captures the journey of heartbreak and healing. This short film is directed by Rob O’Neill, written by Michelle Cuevas, and produced by Josh Ludmir.
When it comes to imagination and creativity, this film truly excels. If you’re looking for something meaningful and sweet, you can find it on Omeleto’s official YouTube channel!
- Metamorphoses
Metamorphoses has been described as “remarkable” and “more than just an ordinary animation,” earning praise for its portrayal of the autistic experience and its sensitive, nuanced approach to a complex subject. The short film explores autism through the perspective of a young child and his mother, as they navigate and rise above societal prejudice.
One of its most powerful elements is the use of masks, both metaphorically and literally – which is handled with striking subtlety and beauty. The minimalist animation style only enhances its emotional impact, leading to a perfectly crafted ending that lingers in your mind. Metamorphoses is a true eye-opener and an absolute must-watch on YouTube.
Every now and then, it’s refreshing to watch short films that take only a few minutes to finish but leave behind a lifetime of meaning. These stories may be brief, but they stay with you, thus adding depth to your thoughts and experiences. After all, perspective makes all the difference, doesn’t it?
