Within the vast realm of cinema, there exists a captivating world often overshadowed by its feature-length counterparts—the realm of short films. While full-length movies command the spotlight, short films possess a unique charm, offering compact narratives that leave an indelible impact. In the year 1987, the Oscars recognized a remarkable selection of short films that etched their names in the annals of cinematic history.
Join us on a journey as we transport ourselves back to the year 1987, a time when short films showcased a diverse tapestry of storytelling brilliance. This was an era that embraced experimentation, where filmmakers seized the opportunity to explore unconventional narratives and push creative boundaries within a limited time frame.
In this article, we invite you to rediscover the Best Oscars Short Films of 1987, shining a light on these remarkable works of art. From thought-provoking dramas to breathtaking animations, each film crafted a unique and captivating experience, capturing the essence of human emotions and the power of concise storytelling.
Together, let us embark on a voyage of cinematic exploration, celebrating the vision and talent behind these unforgettable short films. We will delve into their narratives, unravel their artistry, and appreciate the lasting impact they have left on the world of cinema.
Join us as we pay tribute to the Best Oscars Short Films of 1987, where storytelling brilliance was condensed into powerful and compelling moments that continue to captivate audiences to this day.
Animated Short Films
A Greek Tragedy
A Greek Tragedy is a 1985 animated film directed by Nicole Van Goethem. The film tells the story of three scantily-clad female figures struggling to hold up the crumbling remains of an ancient Greek temple. The film explores themes of tragedy, perseverance, and the human experience.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by using a mix of vibrant colors and fluid animation to create a sense of the beauty and majesty of the ancient Greek world. The use of close-ups and medium shots adds to the film’s impact by creating a sense of the emotional weight of the situation. The film’s use of music and sound effects also adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of the tragedy and struggle of the characters.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the characters struggle to hold up the crumbling temple, highlighting the tragedy and perseverance of the human experience. Another standout moment is when the characters are shown in silhouette against the backdrop of the ancient Greek world, highlighting the beauty and majesty of the setting.
Overall, A Greek Tragedy is a visually stunning and emotionally charged animated film that explores themes of tragedy, perseverance, and the human experience. The film’s style and cinematography add to its impact by creating a sense of the beauty and majesty of the ancient Greek world.
While the film may be geared toward those interested in animation and the ancient Greek world, it is a film that will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about the human experience and the importance of perseverance in the face of tragedy. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a visually stunning and emotionally charged animated film.
The Frog, the Dog and the Devil
The Frog the Dog and the Devil is a 1986 animated film directed by Bob Stenhouse. The film tells the story of a frog who gets trapped in a liquor bottle and the journey he goes on to escape. Along the way, he meets a dog and the devil, and the three of them embark on a wild adventure. The film explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and the human experience.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by using a mix of vibrant colors and fluid animation to create a sense of the whimsy and magic of the story. The use of close-ups and medium shots adds to the film’s impact by creating a sense of the emotional connection between the characters and the impact of their journey. The film’s use of music and sound effects also adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of the humor and adventure of the story.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the frog meets the devil, highlighting the whimsy and magic of the story. Another standout moment is when the frog and the dog work together to escape their predicament, highlighting the importance of friendship and perseverance.
Overall, The Frog the Dog and the Devil is a visually stunning and emotionally charged animated film that explores themes of friendship, perseverance, and the human experience. The film’s style and cinematography add to its impact by creating a sense of the whimsy and magic of the story.
While the film may be geared toward those interested in animation and the adventure genre, it is a film that will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about the human experience and the importance of friendship and perseverance. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a visually stunning and emotionally charged animated film.
Luxo Jr.
Luxo Jr. is a delightful animated short film directed by John Lasseter and Bill Reeves. The film was released in 1986 and was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film.
The plot of Luxo Jr. is simple but charming. The film follows two desk lamps, a larger one and a smaller one, as they play with a ball. The larger lamp, the titular Luxo Jr., is the parent figure and watches over the smaller lamp as they play. The film is entirely wordless, relying on animation and music to tell the story.
The animation style of Luxo Jr. is what really sets it apart. The lamps are animated in a way that makes them feel alive, with expressive movements and reactions. The animation is both playful and precise, with attention paid to the physics of the lamps’ movements. The lamps themselves are simple, with only a few basic shapes, but the animators manage to imbue them with personality and emotion.
One of the standout moments in Luxo Jr. is when the smaller lamp accidentally pops the ball they are playing with. The larger lamp is disappointed but quickly recovers and suggests they play with a bigger ball. It’s a small moment, but it speaks to the theme of parental guidance and the importance of adapting to unexpected situations.
Overall, Luxo Jr. is a delightful short film that showcases the power of animation. The film is suitable for all ages and would be particularly enjoyable for anyone who appreciates playful, character-driven storytelling. The animation style is a highlight and is sure to impress anyone with an interest in the craft of animation. I highly recommend giving Luxo Jr. a watch.
Live Action Short Films
Precious Images
Precious Images is a live-action documentary film directed by Chuck Workman that takes the viewer on a nostalgic journey through the history of Hollywood cinema. The film is a compilation of more than 400 film clips, ranging from the silent era to the 1980s, all arranged in a way that tells a story of the evolution of filmmaking.
The film does not have a traditional plot or main characters, but it is narrated by Billie Whitelaw, whose voice guides the viewer through the various themes and motifs that the film explores. The visual style of the film is striking and immersive, with clever editing and sound design that seamlessly blends the film clips together to create a cohesive and engaging narrative.
One of the most remarkable aspects of Precious Images is the way that the animation style contributes to the storytelling. The film uses a technique called “kinetic typography” to overlay text on the film clips, providing context and commentary on the action. The text is animated in a way that matches the rhythm and pacing of the films, creating a sense of flow and movement that enhances the viewing experience.
There are many scenes and moments that stood out to me in Precious Images, but one that particularly resonated with me was the sequence that explores the use of music in film. The film clips are accompanied by a medley of famous movie scores, ranging from classic Hollywood musicals to contemporary blockbusters. The effect is both nostalgic and exhilarating, reminding us of the emotional power that music can bring to a film.
Overall, I was impressed by Precious Images and would highly recommend it to any film lover or student of cinema. The film is a masterful tribute to the art of filmmaking, and its innovative use of animation and sound design makes it a truly unique viewing experience. While it may not have broad appeal for casual moviegoers, I think that anyone with an interest in the history and craft of cinema will find it fascinating.
Exit
Exit is a 1985 live-action film directed by Pino Quartullo and Stefano Reali. The film tells the story of a research team exploring remnants of the human past who find themselves in a very unusual and strange place – a movie theater. The film explores themes of time travel, memory, and the human experience.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by using a mix of naturalistic lighting and framing to create a sense of the surreal and otherworldly setting. The use of close-ups and medium shots adds to the film’s impact by creating a sense of the emotional connection between the characters and the impact of their journey. The film’s use of music and sound effects also adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of the tension and drama of the situation.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the characters find themselves in the movie theater, highlighting the surreal and otherworldly setting of the story. Another standout moment is when the characters explore their memories and the memories of others, highlighting the importance of memory and the human experience.
Overall, Exit is a visually stunning and emotionally charged live-action film that explores themes of time travel, memory, and the human experience. The film’s style and cinematography add to its impact by creating a sense of the surreal and otherworldly setting of the story.
While the film may be geared toward those interested in science fiction and the exploration of the human experience, it is a film that will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about the human experience and the importance of memory. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and visually stunning live-action film.
Love Struck
Love Struck is a 1986 live-action film directed by Richard Masur. The film tells the story of an awkward, lovable girl who goes after her crush. The film explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the human experience.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by using a mix of naturalistic lighting and framing to create a sense of the emotional weight of the situation. The use of close-ups and medium shots adds to the film’s impact by creating a sense of the emotional connection between the characters and the impact of their journey. The film’s use of music and sound effects also adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of the humor and drama of the story.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the main character goes after her crush, highlighting the importance of taking risks and following your heart. Another standout moment is when the main character discovers her own self-worth and learns to love herself, highlighting the importance of self-discovery and self-love.
Overall, Love Struck is a heartwarming and emotionally charged live-action film that explores themes of love, self-discovery, and the human experience. The film’s style and cinematography add to its impact by creating a sense of the emotional weight of the situation.
While the film may be geared toward those interested in romantic comedies and coming-of-age stories, it is a film that will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about the human experience and the importance of self-love. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a heartwarming and emotionally charged live-action film.
Documentary Short Films
Women – for America, for the World
Women-For America For the World is a 1986 documentary film directed by Vivienne Verdon-Roe. The film tells the story of 22 prominent American women who discuss their activism for nuclear disarmament and their motivations in seeking the end of the arms race. The film explores themes of activism, feminism, and the human experience.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by using a mix of naturalistic lighting and framing to create a sense of the intimacy and emotional weight of the interviews. The use of close-ups and medium shots adds to the film’s impact by creating a sense of the emotional connection between the women and their stories. The film’s use of music and sound effects also adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of the urgency and importance of the women’s activism.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the women discuss their motivations for their activism, highlighting the importance of standing up for what you believe in. Another standout moment is when the women discuss the impact of the arms race on future generations, highlighting the importance of activism and social change for the future.
Overall, Women-For America For the World is a powerful and emotionally charged documentary film that explores themes of activism, feminism, and the human experience. The film’s style and cinematography add to its impact by creating a sense of the intimacy and emotional weight of the interviews.
While the film may be geared toward those interested in political activism and feminism, it is a film that will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about the human experience and the importance of standing up for what you believe in. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged documentary film.
Debonair Dancers
Debonair Dancers is a 1986 documentary film directed by Alison Nigh-Strelich. The film tells the story of The Debonaire Special Dancers of Bakersfield, CA, a dance group for special needs students. The film explores themes of creativity, confidence, and the human experience.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by using a mix of naturalistic lighting and framing to create a sense of the intimacy and emotional weight of the interviews. The use of close-ups and medium shots adds to the film’s impact by creating a sense of the emotional connection between the dancers and their stories. The film’s use of music and sound effects also adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of the joy and creativity in the dance group.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the dancers perform their routines, highlighting the importance of creativity and self-expression. Another standout moment is when the dancers discuss the impact of the dance group on their lives, highlighting the importance of community and support.
Overall, Debonair Dancers is a heartwarming and inspiring documentary film that explores themes of creativity, confidence, and the human experience. The film’s style and cinematography add to its impact by creating a sense of the intimacy and emotional weight of the interviews.
While the film may be geared towards those interested in special needs education and the arts, it is a film that will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about the human experience and the importance of community and support. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a heartwarming and inspiring documentary film.
The Masters of Disaster
Masters of Disaster is a 1986 documentary film directed by Sonya Friedman. The film follows a gifted teacher in an inner-city school who teaches kids to play chess. The film explores themes of education, success, and the human experience.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by using a mix of naturalistic lighting and framing to create a sense of the intimacy and emotional weight of the interviews. The use of close-ups and medium shots adds to the film’s impact by creating a sense of emotional connection between the teacher and the students. The film’s use of music and sound effects also adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of the tension and drama of the chess games.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the students compete in a chess tournament, highlighting the importance of education and the potential for success. Another standout moment is when the teacher discusses the impact of the chess program on the students’ lives, highlighting the importance of mentorship and support.
Overall, Masters of Disaster is an inspiring and emotionally charged documentary film that explores themes of education, success, and the human experience. The film’s style and cinematography add to its impact by creating a sense of the intimacy and emotional weight of the interviews.
While the film may be geared toward those interested in education and mentorship, it is a film that will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about the human experience and the potential for success. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for an inspiring and emotionally charged documentary film.
Red Grooms: Sunflower in a Hothouse
Red Grooms: Sunflower in a Hothouse is a 1986 documentary film directed by Thomas L. Neff and Madeline Bell. The film explores the life and work of the American artist Red Grooms, who is known for his vibrant and playful sculptures, paintings, and installations.
The film takes us on a journey through Grooms’ creative process, from his early years in Nashville to his move to New York City in the 1950s. We see him working in his studio, collaborating with other artists, and discussing his inspirations and influences. Through interviews with Grooms and his friends, colleagues, and family members, we get a sense of the man behind the art, his quirky personality, and his unwavering dedication to his craft.
One of the strengths of the film is its visual style. The filmmakers use a mix of animation, archival footage, and interviews to create a dynamic and engaging portrait of Grooms and his work. The animation sequences, in particular, are a highlight, as they bring Grooms’ sculptures and installations to life in a way that is both whimsical and informative.
One scene that stood out to me was when Grooms discusses his iconic installation Ruckus Manhattan. The film shows footage of the installation, which depicts a chaotic and colorful version of New York City, complete with caricatures of famous landmarks and people. Grooms’ enthusiasm for the project is infectious, and the film does an excellent job of capturing the energy and excitement of the piece.
Overall, I would highly recommend Red Grooms: Sunflower in a Hothouse to anyone interested in art, particularly those who appreciate playful and irreverent works. The film provides a fascinating insight into the mind and work of a unique and influential artist, and the filmmakers’ creative approach to storytelling makes for an entertaining and informative viewing experience.
Sam
Sam is a 1986 documentary film directed by Aaron D. Weisblatt. The film tells the story of Sam Phelps, a New York State farmer who takes a stand against the possible destruction of a nearby watershed. The film explores themes of environmentalism, activism, and the human experience.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by using a mix of naturalistic lighting and framing to create a sense of the intimacy and emotional weight of the interviews. The use of close-ups and medium shots adds to the film’s impact by creating a sense of the emotional connection between Sam and the land. The film’s use of music and sound effects also adds to its emotional impact, creating a sense of the urgency and importance of the environmental issues at hand.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Sam discusses the impact of the proposed development on the land and the watershed, highlighting the importance of thoughtful planning and careful land management. Another standout moment is when Sam and other activists protest the development, highlighting the importance of activism and social change for the environment.
Overall, Sam is a thought-provoking and emotionally charged documentary film that explores themes of environmentalism, activism, and the human experience. The film’s style and cinematography add to its impact by creating a sense of the intimacy and emotional weight of the interviews.
While the film may be geared toward those interested in environmentalism and activism, it is a film that will resonate with anyone who appreciates stories about the human experience and the importance of social change. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and emotionally charged documentary film.
1987 Oscar Short Film Winners
Animated – A Greek Tragedy
Live Action – Precious Images
Documentary – Women – for America, for the World
