The 77th Academy Awards held in 2005 showcased a mesmerizing collection of Short Film nominees, demonstrating immense talent and creativity within the concise format. From captivating animations to thought-provoking documentaries and powerful live-action dramas, the 2005 Oscars Short Film category celebrated the best and brightest emerging voices in the film industry.
Each film offered a unique perspective, showcasing exceptional storytelling, technical excellence, and the ability to evoke profound emotions within a limited runtime. In this article, we will explore the Best Short Film nominees of the 77th Academy Awards, delving into what made each compelling film stand out in its respective category.
These extraordinary works exemplify the incredible power of short films to captivate audiences, ignite discussions, and leave a lasting impact. Join us as we celebrate the remarkable artistry and storytelling brilliance of the filmmakers who left an indelible mark on cinema in 2005.
Animated Short Films
Ryan
Ryan is a 2004 animated short film directed by Chris Landreth. The film tells the story of Ryan Larkin, a former animator who had won an Oscar for his work in the 1960s but had since fallen on hard times due to drug addiction. The film follows Landreth’s attempts to reconnect with Larkin, who has become homeless and destitute on the streets of Montreal.
The animation style in Ryan is unique and innovative, using a technique called “psychological realism” to create a visual representation of Larkin’s inner turmoil. The characters are depicted as distorted, with exaggerated facial features and bodies that seem to shift and warp as they move. This animation style serves to emphasize the psychological struggles of the characters and creates a haunting, dreamlike atmosphere.
One of the most striking scenes in the film is when Larkin is depicted as a puppet, controlled by his addiction and unable to break free from its grasp. Another memorable moment is when Larkin confronts Landreth about his own struggles with addiction, revealing a vulnerability and depth of emotion that is rarely seen in animated films.
Overall, Ryan is a powerful and thought-provoking film that offers a unique perspective on addiction and the creative process. The animation style is integral to the storytelling, creating a surreal and unsettling atmosphere that perfectly captures the psychological struggles of the characters. While the film may not be suitable for young children, it will appeal to anyone interested in animation, art, or the human condition. I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a thought-provoking and visually stunning film.
Birthday Boy
Birthday Boy is a heartwarming and visually stunning animated short film directed by Andrew Gregory and Sejong Park. It was nominated for an Academy Award in 2005 for Best Animated Short Film.
The film takes place in Korea during the Korean War. It follows the story of a young boy named Manuk who is celebrating his sixth birthday. Manuk is excited about his birthday, but his mother is worried about the ongoing war and the safety of her family. Manuk’s father is away fighting in the war, and his mother must protect him from the dangers that surround them.
The animation style used in Birthday Boy is a combination of 2D and 3D animation. The use of 2D animation for the characters and 3D animation for the environment creates a unique and immersive visual experience. The animation style contributes to the storytelling by creating a sense of depth and realism, which enhances the emotional impact of the story.
One of the standout scenes in the film is when Manuk’s mother has to leave him alone in their home to go out and buy food. The tension and fear that she feels are palpable, and the animation effectively conveys her emotions through her body language and facial expressions.
Overall, Birthday Boy is a touching and beautifully crafted film that will tug at your heartstrings. It is suitable for all ages, but it may resonate more with adults due to its themes of war and family separation. I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates a well-told story and stunning animation.
Gopher Broke
Gopher Broke is a delightful animated short film directed by Jeff Fowler and Tim Miller, which was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film in 2005. The film tells the story of a hungry gopher who attempts to steal a carrot from a vegetable garden, but his plans go awry when he triggers a series of comical events that lead to a chaotic chase through the countryside.
The main character is the gopher, who is a determined and resourceful little creature, but also a bit of a troublemaker. He is joined by a cast of quirky animals, including a snail, a frog, and a horse, who all get caught up in the chaos. The animation style is colorful and playful, with a mix of hand-drawn and computer-generated elements that create a unique and whimsical world.
One of the most impressive aspects of the animation style is how it contributes to the storytelling. The exaggerated movements and facial expressions of the characters add to the humor and physical comedy of the film, while the detailed backgrounds and textures create a rich and immersive world. The use of camera angles and lighting also helps to build tension and create a sense of momentum as the chase scene unfolds.
There are many memorable scenes and moments in Gopher Broke, but some that stand out include the gopher’s attempts to dig under the fence, the snail’s slow-motion race to the carrot, and the horse’s unexpected involvement in the chase. Each scene is filled with clever visual gags and witty dialogue that keep the audience engaged and entertained.
Overall, Gopher Broke is a charming and entertaining short film that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Its playful animation style and witty humor make it a great choice for families and animation fans alike. I highly recommend giving this film a watch and experiencing the joy and laughter it brings.
Guard Dog
Guard Dog is a 2004 animated short film directed by Bill Plympton that was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Animated Short Film. The film follows a lovable but overprotective dog who is eager to protect his owner from any and all perceived threats.
The animation style of Guard Dog is both unique and captivating. Plympton uses a hand-drawn style that is rough and sketchy, giving the film a raw and edgy feel. This style of animation is perfectly suited to the story being told, as it adds a sense of urgency and chaos to the dog’s overactive imagination.
The main character, the Guard Dog, is a lovable and endearing protagonist who is both humorous and relatable. His overprotective nature is something that many pet owners can identify with, and his antics are sure to make audiences laugh. The film also features a number of supporting characters, including a butterfly, a bee, and a squirrel, who all add to the film’s charm and whimsy.
One of the standout scenes in Guard Dog is when the dog sees a shadowy figure approaching his owner and springs into action. In his attempt to protect his owner, he causes chaos and destruction, much to the frustration of those around him. This scene perfectly captures the film’s sense of humor and the dog’s overactive imagination.
Overall, Guard Dog is a charming and whimsical animated short that is sure to delight audiences of all ages. Its unique animation style and relatable characters make it a must-see for animation fans and pet owners alike. While it may not be for everyone, those who appreciate quirky and offbeat animation will find much to enjoy in this delightful film.
Lorenzo
Lorenzo is a charming and imaginative animated short film directed by Baker Bloodworth and Mike Gabriel. The film was released in 2004 and went on to receive an Academy Award nomination for Best Animated Short Film. The film tells the story of a proud and self-absorbed cat named Lorenzo, whose vanity and arrogance lead him on a wild and surreal journey.
The animation style of Lorenzo is a unique blend of traditional hand-drawn animation and computer-generated graphics. The characters are beautifully rendered and the use of color and light is striking. The animation style contributes to the storytelling by creating a dreamlike and fantastical world that perfectly captures the whimsical nature of the story.
The main character, Lorenzo, is a cat who is completely enamored with his own appearance. He struts around his owner’s house, admiring himself in every mirror and reflective surface he can find. However, his vanity is challenged when he is cursed by a group of angry and vengeful alley cats. The curse causes his tail to come to life and take on a mischievous personality of its own, leading Lorenzo on a wild and surreal adventure.
One of the standout scenes in the film is when Lorenzo’s tail takes him on a terrifying rollercoaster ride through the city streets. The animation during this sequence is breathtaking, with the colors and shapes morphing and twisting in a way that perfectly captures the chaos and fear that Lorenzo is experiencing.
Overall, Lorenzo is a delightful and imaginative short film that is sure to enchant audiences of all ages. The animation is beautiful, the characters are endearing, and the story is both funny and touching. I would highly recommend this film to anyone looking for a charming and whimsical animated adventure. This film is suitable for all ages, but I think it will particularly appeal to cat lovers and fans of surrealist art.
Live Action Short Films
Wasp
Wasp is a 2003 live-action short film directed by Andrea Arnold. The film follows a struggling single mother who is determined not to let her four young children be an obstacle in the pursuit of starting a relationship with an old acquaintance. The story is a poignant and emotional exploration of the challenges faced by single mothers and the difficult choices they must make to provide for their families.
The film’s visual style and cinematography contribute significantly to the storytelling. The filmmakers use natural light and shadowy scenes to create a sense of tension and drama, adding to the film’s emotional impact. The use of close-ups also helps to convey the emotions of the characters, creating a sense of intimacy with the audience.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the mother leaves her children alone in a car while she goes to meet her old acquaintance. The scene is shot in a way that captures the desperation of the situation and the conflicting emotions of the mother. The use of natural lighting and close-ups helps to convey the tension and drama of the moment.
Overall, Wasp is a powerful and moving film that explores the themes of motherhood, sacrifice, and the struggle to provide for one’s family. The film features strong performances from its cast, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates a good drama with a strong emotional core. It is a film that will leave you feeling moved and inspired. This film is particularly suitable for those who enjoy films that explore the human condition and the resilience of the human spirit in times of great hardship.
7:35 de la Mañana (7:35 in the Morning)
7:35 de la Mañana (7:35 in the Morning) is a 2004 live-action short film directed by Nacho Vigalondo. The film is set in a small café where a woman enters and orders her usual coffee and pastry from the waiter, Luis. As she begins to enjoy her breakfast, a man suddenly bursts into song and dance, causing the woman to become increasingly alarmed. The man’s musical number is a plea to his fellow patrons to help him approach the woman he has been admiring from afar. As the man’s performance reaches its climax, the woman becomes increasingly distressed, and the situation reaches a dramatic conclusion.
The film’s visual style and cinematography are simple yet effective, capturing the emotional complexity of the story. The use of natural lighting and shadowy scenes creates a sense of intimacy and adds to the emotional impact of the story. The camera angles are also used to create a sense of tension and urgency, particularly in the final scenes of the film.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is the man’s musical number, which is both humorous and poignant. The use of music and dance is a powerful tool in conveying the man’s emotions and the desperation of his situation.
Overall, 7:35 de la Mañana is a unique and engaging film that explores the complexities of human relationships and the unexpected twists and turns of life. The film features strong performances from its cast, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates a good drama with a touch of humor and heart. It is a film that will leave you feeling inspired and uplifted. This film is particularly suitable for those who enjoy films that explore the power of music and the unexpected connections that can be made between strangers.
Everything in This Country Must
Everything in This Country Must is a 2004 live-action short film directed by Gary McKendry. The film is set in Northern Ireland and follows a group of soldiers who accidentally hit a woman and her son with their car. Two years later, the soldiers come across a horse stuck in a river, but the horse’s owner is violently opposed to their help due to his hatred towards the British Army. Despite the hostility, the soldiers help the horse and are invited inside by the owner’s daughter to warm up.
The film’s visual style and cinematography contribute significantly to the storytelling, capturing the rugged beauty of the Irish countryside and the tension between the characters. The use of natural light and shadowy scenes creates a sense of drama and adds to the emotional impact of the story.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the soldiers come across the horse stuck in the river. The scene is shot in a way that captures the desperation of the situation and the determination of the soldiers to help the animal. The use of natural lighting and close-ups helps to convey the tension and drama of the moment.
Overall, Everything in This Country Must is a powerful and moving film that explores the themes of conflict, compassion, and the willingness to help others in times of great adversity. The film features strong performances from its cast, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
Despite the mixed reviews, I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates a good drama with a strong emotional core. It is a film that will leave you feeling moved and inspired. This film is particularly suitable for those who enjoy films that explore the human condition and the resilience of the human spirit in times of great hardship.
Little Terrorist
Little Terrorist is a 2004 live-action short film directed by Ashvin Kumar. The film follows Jamal, a 10-year-old Pakistani Muslim boy who accidentally crosses the Indo-Pak border while playing cricket with his friends. Mistaken for a terrorist by Indian security forces, Jamal is forced to hide in an Indian village, where he is taken in by a sympathetic school teacher who disguises him as his nephew to keep him safe until he can be returned home.
The film’s visual style and cinematography play a crucial role in the storytelling, capturing the beauty of the Indian countryside and the tension between the characters. The use of natural light and shadowy scenes creates a sense of drama and adds to the emotional impact of the story.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when the school teacher discovers Jamal hiding in his village. The scene is shot in a way that captures the fear and desperation of the situation, and the use of natural lighting helps to convey the warmth and kindness of the teacher.
Overall, Little Terrorist is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the themes of conflict, compassion, and the willingness to help others in times of great adversity. The film features strong performances from its cast, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates a good drama with a strong emotional core. It is a film that will leave you feeling moved and inspired. This film is particularly suitable for those who enjoy films that explore the human condition and the resilience of the human spirit in times of great hardship. It is also a film that can help to bridge the divide between different cultures and promote understanding and empathy.
Two Cars, One Night
Two Cars, One Night is a 2003 live-action short film directed by Taika Waititi. The film takes place in a car park outside the Te Kaha pub in New Zealand and follows two young boys, Romeo and Ed, who are waiting for their parents to finish drinking inside. While waiting, they strike up a conversation with a young girl named Polly, who is also waiting for her parents.
The film’s visual style and cinematography are simple yet effective, capturing the quiet beauty of the New Zealand countryside and the innocence of childhood. The use of natural lighting and shadowy scenes creates a sense of intimacy and adds to the emotional impact of the story.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Romeo and Polly share a tender moment as they dance to a song playing on the car radio. The scene is shot in a way that captures the sweetness and vulnerability of young love, and the use of natural lighting helps to convey the warmth and intimacy of the moment.
Overall, Two Cars, One Night is a charming and heartwarming film that explores the themes of childhood, love, and the beauty of the unexpected. The film features strong performances from its young cast, and the visual style and cinematography are also noteworthy, contributing significantly to the storytelling.
I highly recommend this film to anyone who appreciates a good drama with a strong emotional core. It is a film that will leave you feeling moved and inspired. This film is particularly suitable for those who enjoy films that capture the beauty of childhood and the innocence of young love.
Documentary Short Films
Mighty Times: The Children’s March
Mighty Times: The Children’s March is a powerful documentary that tells the story of the 1963 Birmingham Children’s Crusade, a pivotal moment in the Civil Rights Movement. Directed by Robert Hudson and Robert Houston, the film is a moving tribute to the bravery and resilience of the young people who risked their lives to fight for their rights.
The film’s style and cinematography play a crucial role in bringing this story to life. The filmmakers use a combination of archival footage, interviews with participants, and reenactments to create a vivid and immersive experience for the viewer. The use of black and white footage from the era helps to transport the audience back in time and gives a sense of the historical context of the events.
One of the most striking aspects of the film is the way in which it foregrounds the voices and experiences of the young people who participated in the marches. Through interviews and reenactments, we get a sense of the fear and uncertainty they felt, as well as the sense of purpose and determination that drove them forward. The film also does an excellent job of contextualizing the events of the Children’s Crusade within the broader history of the Civil Rights Movement, highlighting the key players and events that led up to this moment.
There are several scenes and moments in the film that stand out as particularly powerful. One of the most memorable is the footage of the young people being hosed down by the police, which is both shocking and deeply moving. Another standout moment is the interview with James Bevel, one of the key organizers of the Children’s Crusade, who speaks passionately about the importance of young people in the struggle for justice.
Overall, Mighty Times: The Children’s March is a must-see documentary for anyone interested in the Civil Rights Movement or the history of social justice in America. Its powerful storytelling and stunning visuals make it an engaging and thought-provoking film that will stay with you long after the credits roll. While the subject matter may be difficult for some viewers, the film is ultimately a message of hope and resilience in the face of adversity. I would highly recommend it to anyone interested in this important period of American history.
Autism Is a World
Autism Is a World is a 2004 documentary directed by Gerardine Wurzburg, which provides an intimate look into the life of Sue Rubin, a young woman with autism who uses a keyboard to communicate. The film takes viewers on a journey through Sue’s world, exploring her thoughts, feelings, and experiences living with this condition.
The documentary style of the film is unique in that it is narrated entirely by Sue’s words, as she types them on her keyboard. This style allows the audience to experience the world through Sue’s perspective, and gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and frustrations that people with autism face every day.
Throughout the film, we see Sue navigating through various situations, including attending college, giving speeches, and interacting with her family and friends. These scenes are powerful and moving, as we witness Sue’s struggles and triumphs, and gain insight into her unique perspective on the world.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Sue gives a speech to a room full of people, discussing her experiences living with autism. As she speaks, the camera focuses on her fingers typing on the keyboard, highlighting the importance of communication for people with autism.
The cinematography of the film is also noteworthy, as it utilizes a mix of close-up shots of Sue’s face and hands typing on the keyboard, as well as wider shots that capture the environment around her. This combination of shots helps to create a sense of intimacy with Sue, while also highlighting the broader world in which she lives.
Overall, Autism Is a World is a powerful and moving documentary that offers a unique perspective on the world of autism. It is a must-see for anyone who is interested in gaining a deeper understanding of this condition and is sure to leave a lasting impression on all who watch it. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a thought-provoking and insightful documentary that explores the experiences of people with autism.
The Children of Leningradsky
The Children of Leningradsky is a heart-wrenching documentary directed by Hanna Polak and Andrzej Celinski that explores the lives of homeless children living in Moscow’s train stations. The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2005, and it’s easy to see why.
The film’s main subjects are a group of children who have been abandoned by their families and left to fend for themselves in one of the busiest train stations in Moscow. They spend their days begging for money and food, sleeping on the station’s cold concrete floors, and trying to avoid the police and other dangerous predators who lurk in the shadows.
The filmmakers use a verité style of documentary filmmaking, which means they capture real-life events as they happen without any narration or commentary. This approach allows the audience to witness the children’s daily struggles and joys firsthand, without any filter or bias.
The film’s cinematography is also impressive, with the filmmakers using handheld cameras to follow the children as they navigate their way through the crowded train station. This technique creates an intimate and immersive experience for the audience, allowing them to feel like they are right there with the children as they go about their daily lives.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when a little girl named Svetlana tells the camera that she dreams of one day becoming a ballerina. The camera then follows her as she dances around the train station, twirling and spinning in her tattered clothes. It’s a moment of pure joy and hope that stands in stark contrast to the harsh reality of the children’s lives.
Overall, The Children of Leningradsky is a powerful and moving documentary that sheds light on an often-overlooked issue. The filmmakers’ style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by creating an immersive and intimate experience for the audience. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is interested in documentaries or social issues. However, due to its subject matter, it may not be suitable for younger audiences.
Hardwood
Hardwood is a 2004 documentary film directed by Hubert Davis and Erin Faith Young. The film explores the personal and familial history of Hubert Davis, a former professional basketball player, and his relationship with his father, Mel Davis, who was also a professional basketball player in the 1970s. The film takes us on a journey through the history of basketball, from its origins to the present day, and explores the impact that the sport has had on the lives of the Davis family.
The film’s visual style is stunning, with beautiful cinematography and attention to detail that is second to none. The filmmakers use a combination of archival footage, interviews, and personal home movies to tell the story of the Davis family. The film’s style and cinematography are integral to the storytelling, as they help to create an intimate and personal atmosphere that draws the audience in and keeps them engaged throughout.
One of the most memorable scenes in the film is when Hubert visits his father’s childhood home in Jamaica. The scene is beautifully shot, with stunning visuals of the Jamaican countryside and a hauntingly beautiful score that perfectly captures the mood of the moment. Another standout moment in the film is when Hubert and his father watch footage of Mel’s old basketball games. The emotion on their faces is palpable, and it’s clear that the sport has had a profound impact on their lives.
Overall, Hardwood is a beautifully crafted documentary that is sure to resonate with anyone who has a love for basketball or an interest in family dynamics. The film’s attention to detail and stunning visuals make it a must-see for anyone who appreciates great filmmaking. I would highly recommend this film to anyone who is looking for a powerful and moving documentary that explores the complexities of family relationships and the impact that sports can have on our lives.
Sister Rose’s Passion
Sister Rose’s Passion, a 2004 documentary directed by Oren Jacoby and Steve Kalafer, tells the story of Sister Rose Thering, a Catholic nun who devoted her life to fighting anti-Semitism and promoting interfaith understanding. The film chronicles Sister Rose’s journey from a small town in Wisconsin to the halls of the Vatican, where she successfully lobbied for changes in Catholic doctrine regarding the Jewish people.
The film’s visual style is understated, with interviews and archival footage used to tell Sister Rose’s story. The filmmakers use a mix of talking-head interviews, historical footage, and animated sequences to bring Sister Rose’s story to life. The cinematography is simple and unobtrusive, allowing the story to take center stage.
One of the most striking aspects of Sister Rose’s Passion is how the filmmakers use Sister Rose’s own words to tell her story. Throughout the film, Sister Rose speaks directly to the camera, discussing her motivations and the challenges she faced. This gives the film a sense of intimacy and authenticity that is rare in documentaries.
There are several scenes and moments in Sister Rose’s Passion that stand out. One of the most powerful is when Sister Rose describes the moment she realized the extent of anti-Semitism in the Catholic Church. She talks about seeing a depiction of the crucifixion in which the Jewish people were portrayed as evil and responsible for the death of Jesus. This moment led her to devote her life to fighting anti-Semitism and promoting interfaith understanding.
Overall, Sister Rose’s Passion is a moving and inspiring documentary that is sure to resonate with anyone who is interested in social justice and interfaith relations. The film’s style and cinematography contribute to the storytelling by allowing Sister Rose’s story to take center stage. I highly recommend this film to anyone who is interested in learning more about the life of Sister Rose Thering and the work she did to promote interfaith understanding. This film is particularly well-suited for anyone interested in the intersection of religion, politics, and social justice.
2005 Oscar Short Film Winners
Animated – Ryan
Live Action – Wasp
Documentary – Mighty Times: The Children’s March
