Summary

• Short films offer a unique and impactful way for filmmakers to experiment and express creativity in a limited time frame.
• Talented directors like Sofia Coppola and Wes Anderson began their careers with captivating and thought-provoking short films.
• Iconic directors like Martin Scorsese and David Lynch have used short films to showcase their unique storytelling abilities and innovative style.

Short films are a unique and powerful art form that allows filmmakers to experiment with new ideas and express their creativity to a broad audience in a limited amount of time. From just a few minutes to half an hour, short films can explore a wide range of topics. While they are often underappreciated and overshadowed by their feature-length counterparts, short films can be just as impactful and thought-provoking. In fact, some of the most renowned and talented directors began their careers by making short films before moving on to longer feature films.

Here are fifteen of the best short films from famous directors, offering a glimpse into the diverse and captivating world of short films.

Updated on Mar. 4th, 2024: This article has been updated by Soniya Hinduja with more short films by famous directors that are worth checking out.

15 Lick the Star (1998) — Sofia Coppola

The daughter of Francis Ford Coppola and a self-realized award-winning screenwriter and director, Sofia Coppola made her start in the industry with the 14-minute-long black and white 16mm short film, Lick the Star. It centers around Kate, a seventh grader who returns to school after a while because of her broken foot and realizes that the queen bee of her clique has coined a new catchphrase, “lick the star,” which is inspired by a book she’s currently obsessed with. When word of the real, darker meaning of the phrase gets out, the popular Chloe finds herself shunned by her fellow classmates.

Even in her debut attempt at writing and filmmaking, Coppola’s keen understanding of introspection and subtext is apparent. With Lick the Star, she not only conveys subtle narrative elements like rebellion and youthful discovery but also imbues the mundane setting of middle school with jarring truths. This short announced Coppola as a talent that would meet expectations. It is no wonder she went on to write beloved films like Lost in Translation, Marie Antionette, and the very recent biographical drama, Priscilla.

14 Saw (2003) — James Wan

A prominent name in the horror genre, James Wan established himself as a master of suspense with films like Insidious, The Conjuring, and Malignant. But his humble beginnings date back to 2003, when he, along with a fellow filmmaker Leigh Whannell, penned down the script of what would go on to become an iconic franchise. Saw (now labeled Saw 0.5) is a 10-minute short that sees Whannell in the role of a nurse retelling the terrifying experience when he was kidnapped and forced to play a dangerous game of survival.

With this short, Wan introduced the horrifying cat-and-mouse premise that would spark a liking among fans as well as the studios. Because, after all, the short film was their pitch. His brand of creating an economic setup and relentless tension amazed the critics. Add a confined space and neat practical effects and the studios immediately greenlit one movie after the other. Since then, Wan has seamlessly helmed films with compelling narratives. Overall, the movie kick-started his career in the genre.

13 Yo! My Saint (2018) — Ana Lily Amirpour

Yo! My Saint is a little nine-minute short film that does not push any wrong buttons. An amalgamation of a musical, drama, and comedy, it documents the relationship between an artist and his muse. Capturing KENZO’s Spring/Summer 2018 collection, it really dives into the very roots, the inspiration, of ideas and creativity behind fashion and statement. Directed by Ana Lily Amirpour after the success of The Bad Batch, it is a perfect watch for fans waiting to hear about her next feature.

Yo! My Saint is a relatively recent venture so you can definitely expect her to bring that sense of atmosphere, style, and point of view that defines her most celebrated works. Critics have praised the short for its authenticity. Plus, the collaboration with Karen O is beneficial to both because it shows how willing Amirpour is to experiment. Before this gem, Amirpour thrilled fans with A Girl Walks Home Alone at Night, a genre-blending horror that makes piercing commentary as well.

12 Cigarettes and Coffee (1993) — Paul Thomas Anderson

Even before he became the acclaimed director he is today, Paul Thomas Anderson was showcasing his rare gift for character drama and atmospheric tension in short films. Cigarettes & Coffee was written and directed by PTA, and it centers around five people connected with each other through a $20 bill. It stars Philip Baker Hall as the central character, and the entire short is filmed in a diner near a casino and the intricate shots capture the characters occupying their respective tables and slowly revealing strange connections.

Premiering on the festival circuit, Cigarettes and Coffee ended up getting a lot of acclaim and even led Anderson to base his debut feature film, Hard Eight, on the same story. Shot in organic PTA style, it laid the groundwork for the director’s later success and encapsulated the melancholy, becoming a perfect fusion of form and heart. He then went on to direct movies like Boogie Nights and There Will Be Blood, where his empathetic lens found complex souls living in seemingly ordinary worlds.

11 The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar (2023) — Wes Anderson

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The most recent entry on the list is Netflix’s The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar, which plays out on the screen like the pages of a storybook, which is what we've come to expect from Wes Anderson. Based on one of the four Roald Dahl shorts Anderson has directed, the plot sees a wealthy man named Henry Sugar who learns about a rare and incredible skill to see through objects without using one’s eyes. Fascinated, he tries to master this skill and use it to casually win in gambling. But as his temptations grow, Henry realizes that he must be wiser and careful with his ability.

Wes Anderson works his signature whimsy in this charming adaptation, hinting at his past works of lived-in masterpieces that were fabricated with the same kind of quirkiness. Starring Benedict Cumberbatch as the titular Henry alongside multiple other characters played by Ralph Fiennes, Dev Patel, Ben Kingsley, and Richard Ayoade, he explores hope and humanity. The sets, as usual, are meticulously designed and the dialogue is fast-paced but precise. While a little longer than his other shorts, The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar is a genuinely delightful to watch.

10 The Big Shave (1967) — Martin Scorsese

The Big Shave, a legendary short film directed by Martin Scorsese while he was attending New York University film school, is a masterpiece of visual storytelling. The film, which is only six minutes long, depicts a man in a bathroom shaving. As the man continues to shave, the act becomes increasingly violent, and he starts cutting himself repeatedly and deeper until his face is covered in blood. The film's hauntingly selected soundtrack adds to the tension, creating a truly captivating experience. Scorsese made The Big Shave as a metaphor for the United States' self-destruction in the Vietnam War, which was raging at the time.

By using the simple act of shaving to convey a more profound message about the horrors of war, Scorsese showcases his unique style and ability to tell a story through imagery. The film is a testament to Scorsese's skill as a filmmaker, and it foreshadows the many legendary movies he would go on to create throughout his career, including Wolf of Wall Street (2013), Taxi Driver (1976), Goodfellas (1990), and The Departed (2006).

9 Alive in Joburg (2006) — Neill Blomkamp

Alive in Joburg is a captivating science fiction film that offers a stimulating glimpse into a world where extraterrestrial refugees are stranded in a harsh urban environment under an apartheid government. Directed by Neill Blomkamp in a mockumentary style, the film portrays the fictional account of the alien Prawns living in Johannesburg, South Africa. It explores various themes, including racism, xenophobia, and the human condition. It showcases the plight of the Prawns, who are subjected to discrimination and abuse while being treated as second-class citizens by the human population.

Alive in Joburg was a critical success and helped establish Blomkamp as a brilliant and innovative filmmaker. Its unique and captivating story inspired Blomkamp's first feature-length film, District 9 (2009), which grossed an astounding 210 million dollars on a 30 million dollar budget. The film also received an Academy Award nomination for Best Picture, solidifying its status as a beloved sci-fi classic.

8 Six Shooter (2004) — Martin McDonagh

Six Shooter is a captivating black and bloody Irish comedy that follows the story of Donnelly, an Irishman who has recently lost his wife. Directed by the talented Martin McDonagh, the film takes the viewer on a train ride home with Donnelly. He encounters a series of strange, possibly psychotic characters and events pushing him to insanity. Despite its twisted humor, Six Shooter maintains a solid emotional core that resonates with audiences. The film explores the depths of Donnelly's grief as he struggles to deal with the loss of his wife. McDonagh's use of sharp and witty dialogue, combined with unpredictable plot twists, showcases his unique voice as both a writer and director.

In recognition of its exceptional quality, Six Shooter won an Academy Award in 2006 for Best Live-Action Short Film, cementing McDonagh's reputation as one of the most talented filmmakers of his generation. McDonagh went on to create legendary films, including Three Billboards Outside Ebbing, Missouri (2017), which received critical acclaim and further established McDonagh as a master of his craft.

7 Two Cars, One Night (2004) — Taika Waititi

Directed by Taika Waititi, Two Cars, One Night is a heartwarming and charming short film that follows two young boys and a girl who meet in a rural New Zealand car park. As they wait for their parents to return from a nearby pub, they strike up a friendship and share their hopes and dreams. The film's focus on the children's natural conversations and interactions creates a sense of innocence and authenticity that is heartwarming and relatable. The film also captures the beauty of the New Zealand landscape and brings a unique perspective to the lives of ordinary people.

Waititi's use of humor and authentic dialogue is a testament to his talents as a writer and director, and he was nominated for an Oscar in 2004. Following his nomination, the director gained international recognition and set about making great films, including Thor: Love and Thunder (2022), Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016), and Thor: Ragnarok (2017).

6 Vincent (1982) — Tim Burton

Vincent is a hauntingly beautiful and captivating short film showcasing director Tim Burton's exceptional talent. The film pays homage to the iconic horror actor Vincent Price and tells the story of a young boy who idolizes him and dreams of being like him. Narrated by the legendary Vincent Price himself, the film follows the boy as he experiments on his dog to create a zombie to emulate his beloved idol.

The result is a unique and evocative piece of cinema featuring black and white visuals that enhance the eerie and fantastical tone of the film. The animation style of Vincent is striking and inventive, displaying Burton's ability to create dark and fantastical worlds. Drawing inspiration from German Expressionist films of the 1920s, the film is a perfect example of Burton's unique visual style and his love of the horror genre.

5 Luxo Jr (1986) — John Lasseter

Luxo Jr is a charming and groundbreaking computer-animated short film directed by John Lasseter and produced by Pixar Animation Studios. The film follows the playful interactions between two desk lamps, a larger parent lamp and a smaller child lamp, named Luxo Jr., and their encounters with a ball. Set to a delightful and heartwarming soundtrack, the short film showcases the technical innovation and creativity that Pixar is known for. Luxo Jr is a landmark film in the history of computer animation, as it was the first-ever computer-generated short film to be nominated for an Academy Award, paving the way for the countless computer-animated films that followed. But Luxo Jr's influence extends beyond its technical achievements.

The film also inspired Pixar's iconic lamp logo, which has become the studio's corporate identity. John Lasseter's visionary direction in Luxo Jr would set the stage for him to direct some of Pixar's legendary films, including Toy Story (1995), A Bug’s Life (1998), and Toy Story 2 (1999).

4 The Grandmother (1970) — David Lynch

The Grandmother is a disturbing and provocative short film written and directed by the legendary David Lynch. The film tells the haunting story of a neglected and abused young boy who creates a grandmother figure from a seed in his backyard, which comes to life and becomes his caretaker. The film's dark and surreal imagery and unsettling sound design create a deeply troubling atmosphere that draws viewers into a disturbing and otherworldly world. The Grandmother is a testament to Lynch's unique style and creative genius, showcasing his ability to create unforgettable and provocative works of art.

Upon release, The Grandmother was well-received by audiences and critics alike, earning a 75% rating on Rotten Tomatoes. The film was a significant stepping stone in Lynch's career, as he went on to direct several critically acclaimed works, including Twin Peaks (1992) and Mulholland Drive (2001), cementing his status as one of the most talented and innovative filmmakers of his generation.

3 Doodlebug (1997) — Christopher Nolan

Doodlebug is a 1997 short film directed by the acclaimed filmmaker Christopher Nolan. The film is shot entirely in black and white and tells the story of a lone man, played by Jeremy Theobald, who is frantically chasing a small bug-like creature, or "doodlebug," around his dingy apartment. The eerie score and disorienting camerawork contribute to the film's sense of unease and tension. In just three minutes, Doodlebug raises intriguing questions about the nature of reality and the protagonist's state of mind.

Despite its short length, Doodlebug received widespread critical acclaim upon its release, earning praise for its suspenseful storytelling and visually stunning cinematography. The film is a testament to Nolan's skill as a director, as he expertly creates a haunting atmosphere in a limited setting and with minimal dialogue. After Doodlebug, Nolan continued to direct legendary films, including Interstellar (2014), Dunkirk (2017), and Inception (2010).

2 Mama (2008) — Andy Muschietti

Andy Muschietti's Mama is a captivating Spanish horror short film that will leave you with goosebumps. The story follows two young girls abandoned in a cabin in the woods after a traumatic event. They are comforted and cared for by a mysterious entity whom they call "Mama." As time goes by, the girls realize that Mama is not as benevolent as she initially appeared to be, and a terrifying struggle ensues between the girls and their guardian. Muschietti's direction in Mama creates a tense and chilling atmosphere that will keep you on the edge of your seat.

The film's cinematography and special effects are skillfully done, resulting in a haunting and eerie visual experience. Mama's success led to it being adapted into a feature-length film in 2013, catapulting Muschietti into worldwide recognition. The film also features strong performances, making Mama a must-watch for horror enthusiasts.

1 Whiplash (2013) — Damien Chazelle

Whiplash is a mesmerizing short film directed by Damien Chazelle that later became a feature film of the same name. The story follows the journey of Andrew Neiman (Johnny Simmons), a talented nineteen-year-old drummer, as he enrolls in a prestigious music academy and faces the challenges of being pushed to his limits by his abusive and demanding music instructor. Through the themes of ambition, dedication, and sacrifice, Whiplash explores the lengths people are willing to go to achieve their dreams.

The film premiered at the 2013 Sundance Film Festival, where it was highly acclaimed and went on to win the Short Film Jury Prize. Chazelle's exceptional use of tension and suspense in this short film established him as one of the greatest directors of our time, setting the stage for his future works, including the feature-length version of the story, the award-winning musical La La Land (2016), and the captivating biographical drama First Man (2018).