The 69th Academy Awards held in 1997 showcased a remarkable collection of Short Film nominees that demonstrated the power of storytelling within the concise format. From captivating animations to thought-provoking documentaries and gripping live-action dramas, the 1997 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 expertise, 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 69th Academy Awards and explore what made each of them stand out in their respective categories.
These exceptional works exemplify the immense potential of short films to captivate audiences, provoke reflection, 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 1997.
Animated Short Films
Quest
Quest is a mesmerizing animated short film directed by Tyron Montgomery & Thomas Stellmach that was nominated for the 1997 Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film. The film tells the story of a man’s journey through an imaginary world of surreal landscapes and bizarre creatures.
The main character, a man with a lantern, sets out on a quest to find a woman who has been taken by a giant bird. Along the way, he encounters strange and fantastical creatures, including a creature made entirely of water and a giant sea serpent. The man’s journey takes him through a series of surreal landscapes, each one more bizarre and fascinating than the last.
The animation style in Quest is truly unique and contributes to the storytelling in a significant way. The film was made using a technique called “sand animation,” where images are drawn in sand on a lightbox and then photographed frame by frame. This gives the film a dreamlike quality, with images that seem to shift and transform before your eyes.
There are several scenes and moments in Quest that are particularly memorable. One standout sequence features the man walking through a forest of giant mushrooms that pulsate and glow in the dark. Another unforgettable moment occurs when the man is swallowed whole by a giant fish and then emerges from its belly to find himself in an underwater world.
Overall, Quest is a stunning piece of animation that is sure to captivate anyone who watches it. While the film may not be suitable for very young children, it will appeal to anyone who enjoys surrealism, fantasy, and imaginative storytelling. I highly recommend Quest to anyone looking for a visually stunning and emotionally resonant animated short film.
Canhead
Canhead is a 1996 animated short film directed by Timothy Hittle and Chris Peterson. This 6-minute film takes the audience on a surreal and imaginative journey through a world where anything is possible.
The plot of Canhead follows a robotic man who is trying to find his place in the world. He is constantly searching for something to fulfill him and make him feel alive. The audience follows him through a variety of different landscapes and scenarios as he tries to find his purpose.
The animation style of Canhead is unique and captivating. It combines traditional hand-drawn animation with computer-generated imagery to create a visually stunning experience. The use of color and light is particularly impressive, with each scene having its own distinct palette that adds to the overall mood of the film.
One of the standout scenes in Canhead is when the main character enters a room filled with doors. Each door leads to a different world, and the character must choose which one to enter. The use of color and sound in this scene is particularly effective, creating a sense of anticipation and wonder.
The animation style of Canhead contributes greatly to the storytelling. The surreal and dreamlike quality of the visuals adds to the sense of disorientation and confusion that the main character is feeling. The use of color and light also helps to create different moods and emotions throughout the film.
Overall, Canhead is a visually stunning and thought-provoking film. It is sure to appeal to anyone who appreciates animation as an art form and is looking for something that is both visually captivating and intellectually stimulating. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is interested in exploring the boundaries of animation and storytelling.
La Salla
La Salla is a 1996 animated short film directed by Richard Condie that was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film. The film tells the story of a man named Henry, who attends a concert in a small town and becomes enamored with the beautiful soprano singer. However, his attempts to get closer to her are constantly thwarted by a mischievous little boy who seems to be everywhere he goes.
The animation style of La Salla is unique and distinctive, with the use of hand-drawn sketches and a minimalist color palette that creates a dream-like atmosphere. The animation is simple, yet effective, conveying the emotions and actions of the characters in a way that is both charming and whimsical.
One of the standout scenes in the film is when Henry is sitting in the audience at the concert and becomes transfixed by the singer’s voice. As the camera pans over the audience, we see the other attendees reacting to the music in different ways, from nodding their heads to tapping their feet. This scene is a testament to Condie’s ability to capture the nuances of human behavior in a way that is both humorous and poignant.
Overall, La Salla is a delightful and charming short film that is sure to appeal to audiences of all ages. Its unique animation style, engaging characters, and heartwarming story make it a must-see for anyone who appreciates the art of animation. While it may not be for everyone, those who enjoy whimsical and lighthearted films are sure to find something to love in La Salla.
Wat’s Pig
Wat’s Pig is a delightful and quirky animated short film directed by Peter Lord, which was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 1997. The film follows the story of a young boy named Wat, who lives in a small village with his mother and father. One day, Wat’s father brings home a pig, which he plans to fatten up and sell at the market. But Wat becomes attached to the pig and decides to take care of it, much to his father’s dismay.
The main characters in the film are Wat, his parents, and the pig. Wat is a curious and adventurous boy who is determined to protect the pig from harm. His parents are hardworking and practical, but they don’t understand Wat’s attachment to the pig. The pig is a lovable and playful creature who becomes an important part of Wat’s life.
The visual style of Wat’s Pig is charming and unique. The characters are depicted as clay figures, which gives them a tactile and organic feel. The backgrounds are painted in watercolor, which creates a dreamy and whimsical atmosphere. The animation style contributes to the storytelling by emphasizing the emotional connection between Wat and the pig. The clay figures are expressive and animated with great care, which makes the audience feel invested in their relationship.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Wat and the pig go on a wild adventure through the forest. They encounter a group of mischievous fairies, who try to steal the pig. Wat must use his wits and bravery to save his beloved pig. This scene is visually stunning and emotionally resonant, as it highlights the bond between Wat and the pig.
Overall, Wat’s Pig is a heartwarming and imaginative film that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Its unique animation style and charming characters make it a standout in the world of animated shorts. I highly recommend this film to anyone looking for a sweet and whimsical story. It is a perfect choice for families or anyone who loves animation and storytelling.
Live Action Short Films
Dear Diary
Dear Diary is a 1996 live-action short film directed by David Frankel. The film revolves around a middle-aged New York magazine art director who decides to record the events of her day in a journal after turning 40. The film explores themes of self-discovery, identity, and the complexities of modern life.
The film’s visual style is simple and naturalistic, capturing the everyday mundanity of the protagonist’s life. The use of natural lighting and handheld cameras adds to the sense of authenticity and immediacy in the storytelling.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the protagonist reflects on her life and the choices she has made, leading to a moment of self-realization. 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 character’s emotions.
Overall, Dear Diary is a poignant and introspective film that explores the complexities of modern life and the struggle to find meaning and purpose in our daily routines. The film features a strong performance from its lead actor, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
The film is recommended for anyone who enjoys films that explore the human condition and the complexities of modern life. It is particularly suitable for those interested in self-discovery and the search for meaning and purpose in life.
De Tripas, Corazon
De Tripas, Corazon is a 1996 live-action short film directed by Antonio Urrutia. The film tells the coming-of-age story of a young milk boy named MartÃn, who is still a virgin while his friends Jesús and Roberto boast about their supposed sexual experiences. Away from his friends, MartÃn dreams of the Meifer, the most beautiful girl in the local brothel. Everything changes when Jesús and Roberto want to prove they’re men and go to a brothel without MartÃn.
The film’s visual style is gritty and naturalistic, capturing the raw and sometimes uncomfortable realities of adolescence. The use of handheld cameras and close-ups adds to the sense of intimacy and immediacy in the storytelling.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when MartÃn finally meets the Meifer and they share a moment of connection and understanding. The scene is shot in a way that captures the vulnerability and tenderness of the moment, and the use of close-ups helps to convey the characters’ emotions.
Overall, De Tripas, Corazon is a powerful and honest portrayal of the complexities of adolescent sexuality and the pressures of masculinity. The film features strong performances from its lead actors, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
The film is recommended for anyone who appreciates films that explore the human condition and the challenges of growing up. However, due to its mature themes and content, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
Ernst & Lyset
Ernst & Lyset is a 1996 live-action short film directed by Anders Thomas Jensen and Tomas Villum Jensen. The film tells the story of a businessman named Ernst who picks up a hitchhiker on his way home from the airport. As they drive through the rain, they engage in a conversation about the value of life, and it becomes evident to the audience that the hitchhiker is Jesus Christ. However, Ernst is too preoccupied with getting home to his wife to notice.
The film’s visual style is minimalistic, with a focus on the dialogue and the characters’ facial 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 Jesus reveals his identity to Ernst, and they share a moment of understanding and connection. 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, Ernst & Lyset is a thought-provoking and introspective film that explores the nature of faith and the value of human life. The film features strong performances from its lead actors, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
The film is recommended for anyone who appreciates films that explore complex philosophical questions and the human condition. However, due to its mature themes and content, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
Esposados
Esposados is a 1996 live-action short film directed by Juan Carlos Fresnadillo. The film tells the story of a couple, Antonio and Concha, who win the Christmas Lottery first prize. However, their constant fighting about money quickly leads to Antonio’s desire to get rid of Concha and start a new life in Brazil.
The film’s visual style is gritty and naturalistic, capturing the tense and claustrophobic atmosphere of the couple’s deteriorating relationship. The use of handheld cameras and close-ups adds to the sense of intimacy and immediacy in the storytelling.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Antonio begins to plan how to get rid of Concha, leading to a tense and suspenseful sequence. The scene is shot in a way that captures the desperation and paranoia of Antonio, and the use of close-ups helps to convey his emotions.
Overall, Esposados is a dark and unsettling film that explores the destructive power of greed and the breakdown of a marriage. The film features strong performances from its lead actors, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
The film is recommended for anyone who enjoys films that explore complex human emotions and relationships, but due to its mature themes and content, it may not be suitable for all audiences.
Wordless (Senza parole)
Senza parole is a 1996 live-action film directed by Antonello De Leo. The film tells the story of a young boy named Pietro, who is mute and lives in a small Italian village with his mother. Pietro is bullied by the other children in the village, but he finds solace in his friendship with a local priest.
The film’s visual style is simple 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 poignant scenes in the film is when Pietro communicates with the priest using sign language, revealing the depth of their bond and the importance of communication in their relationship. 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, Senza parole is a touching and emotional film that explores the themes of communication, friendship, and acceptance. 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 power of communication and the importance of acceptance.
Documentary Short Films
Breathing Lessons: The Life and Work of Mark O’Brien
Breathing Lessons: The Life and Work of Mark O’Brien is a 1996 documentary directed by Jessica Yu that explores the life of Mark O’Brien, a poet and journalist who contracted polio at the age of six and spent the rest of his life in an iron lung. The film is a moving portrait of a man who refused to let his disability define him and instead used his writing to express his thoughts and emotions.
One of the strengths of Breathing Lessons is the way it blends interviews with O’Brien’s friends, family, and colleagues with footage of O’Brien himself. This gives the viewer a sense of his personality and humor, as well as the challenges he faced on a daily basis. The film also features some beautiful cinematography, including shots of O’Brien’s garden and the California coastline.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when O’Brien describes his experiences with sex and intimacy, which he wrote about in an essay called “On Seeing a Sex Surrogate.” The scene is both frank and poignant and gives the viewer a sense of O’Brien’s courage and honesty. Another standout moment is when O’Brien attends a poetry reading and recites one of his own poems, which is both funny and moving.
Overall, Breathing Lessons is a powerful and inspiring film that offers a glimpse into the life of a remarkable man. The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by giving the viewer a sense of O’Brien’s world and his perspective on life. I would recommend this film to anyone who is interested in disability studies, poetry, or the human condition. It is a film that will stay with you long after the credits roll.
Cosmic Voyage
Cosmic Voyage, directed by Jeffrey Marvin and Bayley Silleck, is a visually stunning documentary that takes viewers on a journey through the universe. The film uses cutting-edge special effects and breathtaking cinematography to explore the mysteries of space and the possibilities of interstellar travel.
Narrated by Morgan Freeman, Cosmic Voyage delves into the history of space exploration, from the first telescopes to the latest advancements in space technology. The film also explores the science behind the Big Bang theory and the possibility of life on other planets. Throughout the film, viewers are introduced to various scientists and experts who offer their insights and perspectives on the universe.
One of the standout features of Cosmic Voyage is its use of visual effects to convey complex scientific concepts. For example, the film uses CGI to show the relative size of the planets in our solar system, giving viewers a sense of the vastness of space. The film also uses time-lapse photography to show the movements of the stars and planets, creating a sense of motion and dynamism.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is a simulated journey through a black hole. Using a combination of live-action footage and CGI, the film takes viewers on a thrilling ride through the center of a black hole, showing the intense gravitational forces at work.
Overall, Cosmic Voyage is a fascinating and visually stunning documentary that will appeal to anyone with an interest in science and space exploration. The film’s use of special effects and cinematography is masterful, and it effectively communicates complex scientific concepts in an accessible and engaging way. I highly recommend this film to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and visually stunning exploration of the universe.
An Essay on Matisse
An Essay on Matisse is a 1996 documentary directed by Perry Wolff that explores the life and works of one of the most influential artists of the 20th century, Henri Matisse. The film takes a comprehensive look at Matisse’s artistic career, examining his innovative use of color, his unique style, and his impact on the art world.
The film features interviews with art historians, curators, and artists who offer insights into Matisse’s life and work. The documentary also includes footage of Matisse’s artwork and archival footage of the artist at work.
The visual style of the film is both informative and engaging. The cinematography is beautifully shot, with vivid colors and stunning visuals that capture the essence of Matisse’s work. The use of slow motion and close-ups during the scenes of Matisse’s artwork allows the viewer to appreciate the intricate details of his pieces.
One of the standout moments in the film is when the camera zooms in on Matisse’s painting “The Dance.” The camera slowly moves across the canvas, revealing the vibrant colors and playful shapes that make up the composition. This scene is a perfect example of how the film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling, allowing the viewer to immerse themselves in Matisse’s world.
Overall, An Essay on Matisse is a fascinating and informative documentary that offers a comprehensive look at the life and works of one of the greatest artists of the 20th century. The film is recommended for art lovers, students, and anyone interested in the history of modern art.
Special Effects: Anything Can Happen
Special Effects: Anything Can Happen is a 1996 documentary film directed by Susanne Simpson and Ben Burtt. The film explores the world of special effects in film and television, featuring interviews with some of the industry’s top experts and showcasing some of the most iconic moments in special effects history.
Throughout the film, viewers are introduced to a variety of individuals who have made significant contributions to the field of special effects. From makeup artists and animators to sound designers and visual effects supervisors, the film provides a comprehensive look at the many different roles involved in creating realistic and captivating special effects.
One of the strengths of the film is its visual style. The filmmakers use a combination of behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and clips from iconic films to tell the story of special effects. The cinematography is often stunning, with sweeping shots of massive sets and intricate models. These visuals help to bring the magic of special effects to life and give viewers a sense of the scale and complexity involved in creating these memorable moments on screen.
One of the standout moments in the film is an interview with makeup artist Rick Baker, who discusses his work on the classic horror film An American Werewolf in London. Viewers get a behind-the-scenes look at the process of creating the iconic werewolf transformation scene, which is widely regarded as one of the most impressive special effects sequences in film history.
Overall, Special Effects: Anything Can Happen is an engaging and informative documentary that is sure to appeal to film lovers and anyone interested in the behind-the-scenes world of special effects. The film’s visual style and expert interviews make it a compelling watch, and its comprehensive exploration of the field of special effects provides a fascinating glimpse into the many different aspects of this complex and ever-evolving industry.
I highly recommend this film to anyone looking for an in-depth look at the world of special effects in film and television.
The Wild Bunch: An Album in Montage
The Wild Bunch: An Album in Montage is a 1996 documentary directed by Paul Seydor and Nick Redman. The film is a tribute to the classic 1969 western, The Wild Bunch, directed by Sam Peckinpah. It features interviews with the cast and crew of the original film, as well as behind-the-scenes footage and clips from the movie itself.
The Wild Bunch: An Album in Montage is a visually stunning film that tells the story of the making of a classic Western. The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by providing a sense of nostalgia and reverence for the original movie. The filmmakers use a mix of black and white and color footage to capture the essence of the era in which the film was made. The film also features a haunting musical score that complements the visuals perfectly.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the opening sequence, which features clips from the original movie set to the haunting sounds of Jerry Fielding’s musical score. The footage captures the violence and brutality of the film, while also highlighting its artistic merit. Another standout moment is an interview with actor Ernest Borgnine, who played Dutch Engstrom in the original movie. Borgnine’s recollections of working on the film are both insightful and entertaining.
Overall, The Wild Bunch: An Album in Montage is a must-see for fans of the original movie and anyone interested in the history of Westerns. The film offers a fascinating look at the making of a classic movie and provides valuable insights into the creative process of filmmaking. While it may not appeal to everyone, it is sure to be a hit with fans of the genre and those who appreciate the artistry of cinema.
1997 Oscar Short Film Winners
Animated – Quest
Live Action – Dear Diary
Documentary – Breathing Lessons: The Life and Work of Mark O’Brien
