The 68th Academy Awards held in 1996 showcased an extraordinary lineup of Short Film nominees that demonstrated the power of storytelling in its most concise form. From captivating animations to thought-provoking documentaries and gripping live-action dramas, the 1996 Oscars Short Film category celebrated the best and brightest emerging talents in the film industry.
Each film offered a unique perspective on the world, showcasing exceptional creativity, technical mastery, and the ability to evoke profound emotions within a limited runtime. In this article, we will delve into the Best Short Film nominees of the 68th Academy Awards and explore what made each of them stand out in their respective categories.
These remarkable works exemplify the incredible potential of short films to captivate audiences, provoke thought, and leave a lasting impact. Join us as we celebrate the artistry and storytelling brilliance of the filmmakers who made their mark on the world of cinema in 1996.
Animated Short Films
A Close Shave
A Close Shave is a 1995 animated short film directed by Nick Park and produced by Aardman Animations. This 30-minute film follows the beloved characters of Wallace and Gromit as they get tangled up in a sheep-rustling scheme.
The story begins with Wallace and Gromit’s new window-cleaning business, which leads them to the doorstep of Wendolene Ramsbottom, the owner of a wool shop. Wallace quickly becomes smitten with Wendolene, but their budding romance is cut short when he discovers that her dog, Preston, is actually a robotic sheepdog created by her villainous ex-boyfriend, Feathers McGraw.
As Wallace and Gromit try to uncover the truth about Feathers McGraw’s plot to steal sheep, they find themselves caught up in a series of hilarious and dangerous situations. With the help of Wendolene and her shop’s knitting machine, they must outsmart Feathers McGraw and his robotic accomplice to save the day.
The animation style of A Close Shave is classic stop-motion, with each frame painstakingly crafted by hand. This technique gives the film a unique texture and depth, as well as a sense of whimsy and humor that perfectly complements the story. The characters are all incredibly expressive, with Wallace’s exaggerated features and Gromit’s silent reactions adding to the film’s charm.
One of the standout moments in the film is the chase scene through the streets of the town, which features a toy train, a motorcycle, and a sidecar. The attention to detail in this sequence is impressive, with each movement perfectly timed and executed. Another notable moment is the use of the knitting machine, which creates a thrilling climax to the story.
Overall, A Close Shave is a delightful and entertaining film that will appeal to audiences of all ages. Its quirky characters, clever plot, and charming animation style make it a classic in the world of animated shorts. I highly recommend this film to anyone looking for a lighthearted and enjoyable viewing experience.
The Chicken from Outer Space
The Chicken from Outer Space, directed by John Dilworth, is a quirky and entertaining animated short film that tells the story of Courage, a timid dog who must protect his elderly owners from a menacing space chicken and its eggs.
The film’s style is unique and visually striking, as it uses a combination of traditional hand-drawn animation and computer-generated imagery to create a surreal and otherworldly atmosphere. The cinematography is also noteworthy, as it captures the essence of the farm and the characters’ emotions and actions in a way that is both creative and innovative.
One of the standout moments in the film is when Courage confronts the space chicken in a final showdown. The scene is both humorous and suspenseful, and it showcases the film’s clever use of intergalactic themes and over-the-top action.
Overall, The Chicken from Outer Space is a brilliant example of an experimental animated short that manages to be both weird and excellent. The film’s message is clear: even the most unlikely heroes can rise to the occasion when called upon to defend their loved ones.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who loves animation, and storytelling, or simply wants to be transported to a world of whimsy and wonder. It is a must-see for fans of John Dilworth’s work and anyone who appreciates the art of animation. While it may not be suitable for very young children due to some of the more intense scenes, it is a great choice for older children and adults who enjoy quirky and imaginative animation.
The End
The End, directed by Chris Landreth, is a surreal and thought-provoking animated short film that explores the relationship between an animator and his creations. The film’s main character is an animator who is struggling to explain his artistic vision to his creations, who are unimpressed with his lack of inspiration.
The film’s style is unique and visually striking, as it uses a combination of traditional hand-drawn animation and computer-generated imagery to create a surreal and dreamlike atmosphere. The cinematography is also noteworthy, as it captures the essence of the animator’s inner turmoil and the existential crisis he faces.
One of the standout moments in the film is when the animator confronts his own mortality and the inevitability of death. The scene is both haunting and poignant, and it showcases the film’s ability to explore complex themes and emotions in a visually stunning way.
Overall, The End is a brilliant example of an experimental animated short that manages to be both profound and entertaining. The film’s message is clear: even the most creative minds can struggle with self-doubt and the fear of failure.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who loves animation, or experimental filmmaking, or simply wants to be transported to a world of surrealism and introspection. It is a must-see for fans of Chris Landreth’s work and anyone who appreciates the art of animation. While it may not be suitable for very young children due to some of the more mature themes, it is a great choice for older children and adults who enjoy thought-provoking and visually stunning animation.
Gagarin
Gagarin, directed by Aleksey Kharitidi, is a charming and whimsical animated short film that tells the story of a young caterpillar who dreams of flying like the birds and butterflies she sees around her. One day, she finds herself in a shuttlecock and is able to fly ahead of time, but the experience disappoints her so much that when she becomes a beautiful butterfly, she doesn’t want to fly.
The film’s style is simple yet effective, as it uses traditional hand-drawn animation to create a world that is both playful and imaginative. The cinematography is also noteworthy, as it captures the essence of the caterpillar’s journey and the emotions she experiences along the way.
One of the standout moments in the film is when the caterpillar finally becomes a butterfly but is too afraid to fly. The scene is both humorous and poignant, and it showcases the film’s ability to explore complex emotions in a lighthearted and entertaining way.
Overall, Gagarin is a delightful and heartwarming film that will appeal to audiences of all ages. The film’s message is clear: sometimes, the things we think we want aren’t always what we expect them to be.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who loves animation and storytelling or simply wants to be transported to a world of whimsy and wonder. It is a must-see for fans of Aleksey Kharitidi’s work and anyone who appreciates the art of animation. While it may be particularly appealing to younger audiences, it is a great choice for anyone who enjoys charming and imaginative animated films.
Runaway Brain
Runaway Brain is a 1995 animated short film directed by Chris Bailey that takes a dark and comedic twist on the classic tale of Mickey Mouse. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film, and rightfully so. This 7-minute animation is a captivating and thrilling ride that will leave you on the edge of your seat.
The film follows the iconic character of Mickey Mouse as he tries to earn some extra cash by participating in a scientific experiment. However, things take a turn for the worst when his brain is switched with that of a monstrous creature named Julius. The rest of the film sees Mickey Mouse trying to regain control of his body, while Julius wreaks havoc on the city.
The animation style of Runaway Brain is both unique and visually stunning. The film uses a combination of traditional hand-drawn animation and computer-generated imagery to create a world that is both familiar and otherworldly. The characters are designed with exaggerated features, which adds to the humor and horror of the film. The use of lighting and shadows is also noteworthy, as it creates a sense of suspense and unease throughout the film.
One of the standout scenes in the film is when Julius first takes control of Mickey’s body. The transformation sequence is both unsettling and mesmerizing, as we see Mickey’s body stretch and contort into the monstrous form of Julius. Another scene that stands out is when Mickey finally regains control of his body and fights back against Julius. The action-packed sequence is thrilling and satisfying, as we see Mickey use his wit and resourcefulness to defeat the monster.
Overall, Runaway Brain is a must-see for fans of animation and dark comedy. The film is not suitable for young children, as it contains some disturbing imagery and themes. However, for older audiences, this film is a true gem. The animation style is unique and visually stunning, and the story is both entertaining and thought-provoking. I highly recommend this film to anyone who enjoys a good scare and a good laugh.
Live Action Short Films
Lieberman in Love
Lieberman in Love is a 1995 live-action film directed by Christine Lahti. The film follows the story of Joe Lieberman, a successful but lonely middle-aged accountant who falls for a beautiful and much younger aspiring actress named Shaleen. Despite their age difference, Joe and Shaleen begin a professional relationship that soon turns into a romantic one. However, Joe’s feelings for Shaleen become complicated when he develops a romantic interest in a married woman named Kate.
The film’s visual style is understated and naturalistic, with a focus on the characters’ emotions and expressions. The use of natural lighting and simple camera angles adds to the sense of authenticity and immediacy in the storytelling.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Joe and Shaleen have a heart-to-heart conversation about their feelings for each other. The scene is shot in a way that captures the emotional depth and power of the moment, and the use of close-ups helps to convey the characters’ emotions.
Overall, Lieberman in Love is a poignant and realistic portrayal of love, loneliness, and the complexities of human relationships. The film features strong performances from its lead actors, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I recommend this film to anyone who appreciates films that explore complex human emotions and relationships, and to those who are interested in the themes of love, loneliness, and the search for connection. However, due to its mature themes and content, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
Brooms
Brooms is a 1996 live-action film directed by Luke Cresswell and Steve McNicholas. The film follows a street sweeper who is tasked with cleaning up the city market. As he begins his task, he is joined by a group of other street cleaners, each with their unique style and approach. Together, they transform their sweeping into a dynamic celebration of rhythm and movement, loosely based on the opening sequence of the UK percussion show, STOMP.
The film’s visual style is energetic and vibrant, with a focus on the characters’ movements and the rhythm of their sweeping. The use of dynamic camera angles and quick cuts adds to the sense of excitement and energy in the storytelling.
One of the most impressive scenes in the film is when the street sweepers come together to create a complex and intricate rhythm using their brooms and other cleaning tools. The scene is shot in a way that captures the precision and skill of the performers, and the use of close-ups helps to convey the intensity and passion of their performance.
Overall, Brooms is an entertaining and engaging film that celebrates the power of rhythm and movement. The film features impressive performances from its lead actors, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I recommend this film to anyone who appreciates films that explore the beauty of movement and rhythm, and to those who enjoy music and dance performances. However, due to its lack of plot and character development, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
Duke of Groove
Duke of Groove is a 1995 live-action TV movie directed by Griffin Dunne. The film follows the story of Rich Cooper, a teenage boy who attends a party with his mother to ensure he is not at home when his father leaves the family for good. The party is a wild and crazy affair, attended by strange guests such as Janis Joplin. Rich meets a beautiful girl named Maya and receives a bootleg tape of his idol Bob Dylan from the host. However, the night takes a turn for the worse when Rich learns that his father has left his mother.
The film’s visual style is reminiscent of the late 60s and early 70s, with a focus on the music and culture of the era. The use of vibrant colors and psychedelic visuals adds to the sense of nostalgia and authenticity in the storytelling.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Rich receives the bootleg tape of Bob Dylan from the host. The scene is shot in a way that captures the excitement and energy of the moment, and the use of close-ups helps to convey Rich’s emotions.
Overall, Duke of Groove is an entertaining and nostalgic film that captures the spirit of the late 60s and early 70s. The film features strong performances from its lead actors, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I recommend this film to anyone who appreciates films that explore the music and culture of the era, and to those who enjoy coming-of-age stories. However, due to its short runtime and TV movie format, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
Little Surprises
Little Surprises is a 1996 live-action short film directed by Jeff Goldblum. The film tells the story of a young couple, played by Kelly Preston and Sam Whipple, who are preparing for their wedding day. The man invites his family to spend the previous day at their house, including his problematic brother, played by Mark Pellegrino. The plot twist comes when the girl realizes that she knows the brother from a past encounter, and feelings start to emerge between them. The film is filled with awkward moments and a great sense of humor, and it explores the little surprises that life can bring.
The film’s visual style is understated, with a focus on the characters’ emotions and expressions. The use of natural lighting and simple camera angles adds to the sense of authenticity and immediacy in the storytelling.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the girl realizes that she knows the brother from a past encounter. The scene is shot in a way that captures the emotional depth and power of the moment, and the use of close-ups helps to convey the characters’ emotions.
Overall, Little Surprises is a charming and engaging film that explores the complexities of human relationships. The film features strong performances from its lead actors, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I recommend this film to anyone who appreciates films that explore human emotions and relationships, and to those who enjoy short films. However, due to its short runtime and limited distribution, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
Tuesday Morning Ride
Tuesday Morning Ride is a 1995 live-action short film directed by Dianne Houston. The film is based on the short story “A Summer Tragedy” by Arna Bontemps, a Harlem Renaissance writer. Set in the 1930s, the story depicts an elderly couple, Jeff and Jennie, who feel they have nothing to live for since their children do not visit them. They are so depressed that they eventually take themselves over a cliff. The film explores the couple’s emotions and feelings about the passage of time and their desire for how they want their lives to go.
The film’s visual style is simple and understated, with a focus on the characters’ emotions and the passage of time. The use of natural lighting and simple camera angles adds to the sense of authenticity and immediacy in the storytelling.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Jeff and Jennie are leaving their home for the last time to move into a nursing home. The scene is shot in a way that captures the emotional depth and power of the moment, and the use of close-ups helps to convey the characters’ emotions.
Overall, Tuesday Morning Ride is a poignant and engaging film that explores the complexities of aging and the passage of time. The film features strong performances from its lead actors, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I recommend this film to anyone who appreciates films that explore the human condition and the complexities of aging, and to those who enjoy short films. However, due to its short runtime and limited distribution, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
Documentary Short Films
One Survivor Remembers
One Survivor Remembers is a powerful documentary that tells the story of Holocaust survivor Gerda Weissmann Klein. Directed by Kary Antholis, the film was released in 1995 and went on to win an Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Subject.
The film follows Gerda Weissmann Klein as she recounts her experiences during the Holocaust. Through interviews and archival footage, we learn about Gerda’s childhood in Poland, her family’s deportation to a concentration camp, and her eventual liberation by the U.S. Army.
One Survivor Remembers is a deeply personal film that is driven by Gerda’s emotional and compelling testimony. Her story is one of strength, resilience, and hope in the face of unimaginable horrors.
The film’s style and cinematography play an important role in telling Gerda’s story. The use of archival footage and photographs helps to bring her experiences to life, while the film’s somber and reflective tone underscores the gravity of the subject matter.
There are several scenes and moments in the film that stand out, but perhaps the most powerful is when Gerda describes the moment she was liberated by the U.S. Army. Her description of the American soldiers and their kindness towards her is a poignant reminder of the humanity that can exist even in the darkest of times.
Overall, One Survivor Remembers is a must-see film for anyone interested in the history of the Holocaust or the resilience of the human spirit. While it is a difficult and emotional film to watch, it is also a testament to the strength and hope that can emerge from even the darkest of circumstances.
I would highly recommend this film to anyone interested in history, documentary filmmaking, or stories of survival. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits have rolled.
Jim Dine: A Self-Portrait on the Walls
Jim Dine: A Self-Portrait on the Walls is a 1995 documentary directed by Nancy Dine and Richard Stilwell. The film offers an intimate look at the life and work of American artist Jim Dine, who is known for his unique style of creating art that blends pop art, neo-Dadaism, and abstract expressionism.
The film features interviews with Dine himself, as well as his family, friends, and colleagues, who share their insights into the artist’s life and work. The documentary also showcases Dine’s iconic artworks and installations, which are captured beautifully by the film’s stunning cinematography.
One of the most striking things about the film is its use of visuals to tell the story. The filmmakers expertly capture Dine’s creative process, from his early sketches and drawings to the final product. They also use archival footage and photographs to provide historical context and to give viewers a sense of the artist’s evolution over time.
There are several standout moments in the film, including a scene where Dine talks about his inspirations and how he draws from a wide range of sources, including literature, music, and even his dreams. Another memorable scene features Dine discussing his famous “tools” series, which showcases everyday objects like hammers and saws and turns them into works of art.
Overall, Jim Dine: A Self-Portrait on the Walls is a must-watch for anyone interested in art, creativity, and the human spirit. The film’s engaging storytelling and stunning visuals make it a true cinematic masterpiece. I highly recommend this film to anyone who wants to be inspired and moved by the power of art.
This film would appeal to art enthusiasts, students, and anyone who is interested in learning more about the life and work of Jim Dine. It is also a great choice for anyone looking for a thought-provoking and visually stunning documentary.
The Living Sea
The Living Sea, directed by Greg MacGillivray and Alec Lorimore, is a visually stunning and informative documentary that explores the vast and mysterious world of the ocean. This film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 1996, and it’s easy to see why.
The Living Sea takes us on a journey through the ocean’s various ecosystems, from the shallow coral reefs to the deep sea trenches. We meet a diverse cast of characters, including scientists, divers, fishermen, and even a group of surfers who ride massive waves in Hawaii.
The film’s style and cinematography are a major part of what makes it so engaging. The camera work is breathtaking, with sweeping shots of the ocean and its inhabitants that make you feel like you’re right there in the water with them. The use of slow motion and time-lapse photography also adds to the film’s visual appeal, allowing us to see the ocean in ways that we never could in real life.
One scene that particularly stood out to me was when we see a group of dolphins swimming and playing in the ocean. The camera work here is incredible, capturing the dolphins’ movements in a way that is both graceful and playful. Another memorable scene is when we see a massive school of fish swimming in unison, creating intricate patterns that are mesmerizing to watch.
Overall, The Living Sea is a must-see for anyone who is interested in the ocean or marine life. The film’s stunning visuals and informative content make it both entertaining and educational. I would highly recommend it to anyone who is looking for a captivating documentary experience.
This film would likely appeal to nature lovers, ocean enthusiasts, and anyone who is interested in learning more about the world around us. However, even if you don’t consider yourself a fan of documentaries, The Living Sea is definitely worth a watch.
Never Give Up: The 20th Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper
Never Give Up: The 20th Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper is a powerful and moving documentary that tells the story of a remarkable man who survived the horrors of the Holocaust and went on to become a renowned conductor and music educator. Directed by Terry Sanders and Freida Lee Mock, this film is a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the power of music to heal and inspire.
The film chronicles the life of Herbert Zipper, a Viennese Jew who was arrested by the Gestapo in 1938 and sent to the Dachau concentration camp. Miraculously, he survived the war and went on to work with some of the greatest musicians of the 20th century, including Leonard Bernstein and Zubin Mehta. Zipper’s passion for music and his dedication to education led him to found the International Orchestra for Peace and the Colburn School of Music in Los Angeles.
The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling in a number of ways. The use of archival footage and interviews with Zipper’s family, friends, and colleagues brings his story to life in a vivid and compelling way. The film also features beautiful performances of some of Zipper’s favorite pieces of music, which serve as a poignant reminder of the power of music to transcend even the darkest of times.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Zipper returns to Vienna for the first time since the war. As he walks the streets of his former home, memories flood back and he is overcome with emotion. Another powerful moment is when Zipper conducts a group of young musicians in a performance of Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony, a piece that has particular significance for him.
Overall, Never Give Up: The 20th Century Odyssey of Herbert Zipper is a must-see film for anyone interested in the power of music, the Holocaust, or the human spirit. While it is a deeply emotional film, it is also one that is filled with hope and inspiration.
I would highly recommend it to anyone who enjoys documentaries or is looking for a film that will move them to tears. This film would be particularly relevant to music students and educators, as well as anyone interested in the history of classical music.
The Shadow of Hate
The Shadow of Hate, a 1995 documentary directed by Charles Guggenheim, is a powerful and thought-provoking film that examines the history of racism in the United States. Through a combination of archival footage, interviews, and narration, the film explores the ways in which racism has affected American society, from slavery and the Civil War to the civil rights movement and beyond.
The film’s main subjects are the various forms of racism that have existed in the United States, from the Ku Klux Klan and other white supremacist groups to the institutional racism that has been built into American society. The film also examines the ways in which racism has been perpetuated through popular culture, including films, music, and television.
The visual style of the film is both understated and powerful, with Guggenheim using a variety of techniques to convey the emotional impact of the film’s subject matter. The use of archival footage is particularly effective, as it allows the viewer to see the events and people being discussed in a way that feels immediate and real.
One of the most powerful scenes in the film is a montage of images of lynching victims, accompanied by the haunting voice of Billie Holiday singing “Strange Fruit.” The combination of Holiday’s mournful voice and the brutal images is incredibly effective, conveying the horror and tragedy of lynching in a way that is both visceral and emotional.
Another standout moment in the film is an interview with James Meredith, the first African American student to enroll at the University of Mississippi. Meredith’s recollection of his experiences, including the violence and hatred he encountered, is both powerful and inspiring.
Overall, The Shadow of Hate is a must-see film for anyone interested in the history of racism in the United States. While it is a difficult and often disturbing film to watch, it is also an important one, shining a light on a dark chapter in American history that is too often overlooked. I would recommend this film to anyone who is interested in learning more about this subject, particularly to educators and students who are studying this period of American history.
1996 Oscar Short Film Winners
Animated – A Close Shave
Live Action – Lieberman in Love
Documentary – One Survivor Remembers
