Top Short Films of the Past Decade: 2010-2019

While the world of cinema is vast and ever-evolving, the short film form remains a powerful and versatile medium, eschewing the constraints of feature-length narratives in favor of concise, focused storytelling. Over the past decade, from 2010 to 2019, numerous short films have captured the hearts and minds of audiences and critics alike, each offering a unique and compelling glimpse into the human experience. Let's explore some of the standout shorts that have made an impact in the decade just past.

Chutney: A Flawless Microcosm

Among the plethora of films in this period, one that stands out is Chutney. This Indian short film, released in 2013, is a testament to the versatility and depth that can be achieved in a mere 22 minutes. Directed by Anurag Basu, Chutney takes viewers on an emotional journey through a series of interconnected and compelling stories. It has been nominated for an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film, a testament to its artistic and emotional impact.

Selection of Noteworthy Short Films

Beyond Chutney, the decade saw a flurry of short films that showcased the genre's potential. Here are a few more that have left a lasting impression on audiences and critics:

“Pigeon” (2010): A Cinematic Effort

American short film Pigeon, directed by María Agua, stands out for its experimental and layered narrative. This two-minute animated piece (Watch it here) manages to convey a profound emotional tale through simple, yet evocative, imagery and sound design. The film's exploration of grief and intergenerational trauma makes it a poignant addition to the list of excellent shorts from the decade.

“Box Cutter” (2017): A Profound Slice of Realism

Short film Box Cutter directed by Mina Nader Yassini, gained significant traction in 2017. This 10-minute Arabic film (Watch it here) offers a profoundly realistic and sensitive portrayal of a man working in a warehouse in Kuwait. It exemplifies how short films can capture the essence of everyday life and human nature with remarkable precision and depth.

“This Is Us” (2018): A Time-Lapse of Lives

This Is Us, directed by Jay Cassidy, is a stunning example of the power of the short film format. This 13-minute piece (Watch it here) shows masterful use of time-lapse techniques to depict the passage of time, aiming to evoke a profound emotional response in viewers. The narrative shifts fluidly through decades, exploring themes of family, loss, and love.

Conclusion

The decade from 2010 to 2019 was marked by a proliferation of short films that pushed the boundaries of the genre and offered viewers new and memorable experiences. Films like Chutney, Pigeon, Box Cutter, and This Is Us stand as testaments to the remarkable creativity and talent in the short film world. As the film industry continues to evolve, we can look forward to many more innovations in this form.

Chutney – 2013 Pigeon – 2010 Box Cutter – 2017 This Is Us – 2018

Keywords: short films, best short films, top short films