O.U. directed by Vance McLean Ball

SCI-FI
Directed by Vance McLean Ball
20 min. Scripted Short – Puerto Rico

O.U. is a beautifully crafted science fiction short film that explores humanity, compassion, and the blurred line between man and machine. Directed by Vance McLean Ball, this Puerto Rican sci-fi short offers a touching, introspective take on what it means to be human in a world that fears and rejects artificial life.

The film follows Mateo, a patient living with an artificial heart, as he embarks on an emotional journey to find his missing android caretaker—the being who once saved and cared for him. Set during a time when androids are being hunted and destroyed, Mateo’s quest becomes both a physical and emotional search for connection, loyalty, and the remnants of humanity within a collapsing society.

The cinematography and production design in O.U. are stunning, blending futuristic technology with grounded emotion. The film’s tone feels like a mix of Blade Runner and Her, offering both philosophical depth and heartfelt storytelling. It’s a sci-fi drama that makes you think about empathy, ethics, and what defines “life.”

My Take: Worth The Watch
O.U. is a hauntingly beautiful and emotional short film that transcends its genre. With its powerful performances and compelling world-building, it’s a must-watch for fans of indie sci-fi, AI-driven narratives, and character-driven storytelling.

Film Description:
In the times of the destruction of androids, Mateo, a patient with an artificial heart, embarks on the journey of finding the one who took care of him since the surgery: his Android.

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Play Nice directed by Samual Dawes

FANTASY · THRILLER
Directed by Samual Dawes
11 min. Scripted Short – UK

If you love your fantasy with a sharp edge and a dose of twisted humor, Play Nice is one short film you don’t want to miss. Directed by Samual Dawes, this clever and creepy fantasy thriller takes an ordinary night of gaming and turns it into a surreal nightmare filled with unexpected tension and dark laughs.

Mel is ready to enjoy her night alone, gaming without distractions. But when her children’s toys decide they’ve been ignored for too long, her evening takes a terrifying turn. These aren’t your average playthings—they’re alive, demanding attention, and far more sinister than they appear.

The tone of Play Nice balances suspense and absurdity perfectly. The production design, lighting, and effects work together to create a playful yet eerie atmosphere that feels like a mix of Toy Story and Black Mirror. It’s both bizarre and brilliant—one of those short films that lingers long after it ends.

My Take: Worth The Watch
Play Nice is a wickedly fun and well-crafted short that proves how much story and emotion can fit into just 11 minutes. It’s a must-watch for fans of fantasy thrillers, dark comedies, and psychological horror shorts.

Film Description:
Mel makes the most of her free house by getting down to some serious gaming, but is interrupted by her children’s toys when they decide they aren’t getting enough attention. However, she quickly realizes they’re not quite so fun to play with...

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Polybius by Jimmy Kelly

Polybius

SCI-FI HORROR THRILLER SHORT FILM
Directed by Jimmy Kelly
17 min. Scripted Short – USA

Polybius is a chilling sci-fi horror thriller short film that dives into one of the most enduring video game urban legends. With eerie visuals, suspenseful pacing, and a dark atmosphere, this short is as unsettling as it is entertaining.

The story follows a teenage girl who tries to convince the local Sheriff that a mysterious arcade cabinet is responsible for her brother’s suicide. Inspired by the infamous Polybius legend, the film mixes horror, psychological thriller elements, and 1980s-inspired sci-fi paranoia.

My Take: Must Watch
Polybius stands out as a must-watch indie horror short that blends creepy atmosphere, retro aesthetics, and urban myth. If you’re a fan of sci-fi thrillers, horror shorts, or gaming legends, this one belongs on your list.

Film Description:
Based on the urban legend, a teenage girl tries to convince the Sheriff that a mysterious arcade game caused her brother’s death.

Hashtags

#PolybiusFilm #SciFiHorrorShort #UrbanLegendFilm #HorrorShortFilm #IndieSciFiShort #IndieHorrorFilm #MustWatchShort #ShortFilmReview #IndieFilmCommunity #ThrillerShortFilm #RetroSciFi #GamingUrbanLegend #FilmFestivalShort

Blocks Directed by Bridget Moloney

Blocks

COMEDY SHORT FILM
Directed by Bridget Moloney
12 min. Scripted Short – USA

Blocks is a witty and surreal comedy short film that embraces the absurd with confidence. Directed by Bridget Moloney, this quirky indie short balances humor with originality, turning a strange concept into a hilarious and engaging piece of filmmaking.

The film follows a woman whose reality is disrupted by an unexplained and surreal phenomenon. What makes Blocks shine is its refusal to explain the central oddity, instead leaning into absurdist comedy and allowing the audience to interpret, laugh, and wonder.

With crisp visuals, strong design, and natural performances, Blocks feels polished and professional, all while maintaining the playful strangeness of indie surreal comedy.

My Take: Worth The Watch
Blocks is a worth-the-watch indie comedy short that stands out with its originality and quirky style. Fans of surreal comedies and indie shorts will find this both entertaining and thought-provoking.

Film Description:
Blocks tells the story of a woman who begins experiencing a bizarre, unexplained phenomenon that completely disrupts her everyday life.

Hashtags

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Broken Orchestra directed by Charlie Tyrell

Broken Orchestra

DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM
Directed by Charlie Tyrell
12 min. Documentary – USA

Broken Orchestra is an inventive documentary short film that highlights the intersection of music, education, and community repair. Directed by Charlie Tyrell, this 12-minute short captures the beauty of instruments in disrepair and the people who believe they still have value.

While the film is stylish and full of creative flourishes, at times the presentation feels a bit heavy-handed. For me, the concert sequence—though brief—was the highlight and left me wanting more of that grounded energy. Despite its shortcomings, the film still succeeds in sparking curiosity about the subject and the movement to restore Philadelphia’s broken instruments.

My Take: Worth The Watch
Broken Orchestra is definitely a worth-the-watch documentary short film. Its unique subject matter and inventive approach make it an engaging look at how music, community, and creativity can intersect, even if it sometimes feels a little overstyled.

Film Description:
This short documentary tells the story of Philadelphia’s broken instruments and the movement to repair them, capturing both the challenges and the hope found in music education.

Hashtags

#BrokenOrchestra #DocumentaryShortFilm #CharlieTyrell #IndieShortFilm #MusicDocumentary #WorthTheWatch #ShortFilmReview #IndieFilmCommunity #IndependentCinema #MusicEducationFilm #FilmFestivalShort

Call Center Blues Directed by Geeta Gandbhir

Call Center Blues

DOCUMENTARY SHORT FILM
Directed by Geeta Gandbhir
25 min. Documentary Short – USA

Call Center Blues is a powerful documentary short film that sheds light on the human impact of deportation. With compassion and urgency, director Geeta Gandbhir explores the struggles of deportees living near the U.S.-Mexico border, working in call centers as they navigate fractured identities and uncertain futures.

The film blends intimate interviews with cinematic storytelling, offering both personal and political insight. It captures resilience in the face of loss, while highlighting the emotional toll of separation from family and homeland.

My Take: Must Watch
Call Center Blues is a must-watch documentary short film that not only informs but moves its audience. It’s an essential story in today’s cultural landscape and a standout in the realm of independent documentaries.

Film Description:
A poignant documentary about deportees working in call centers near the U.S.-Mexico border, Call Center Blues humanizes the immigration crisis and explores identity, loss, and resilience.

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Reminiscences of the Green Revolution Directed by Dean Colin Marcial

Reminiscences of the Green Revolution

DRAMA SHORT FILM
Directed by Dean Colin Marcial
16 min. Scripted Short – USA

Reminiscences of the Green Revolution is a visually striking indie drama short film that hooks you immediately with its atmosphere, casting, and tone. Director Dean Colin Marcial creates a story full of potential, one that feels like it could easily expand into a feature-length film.

The film follows characters navigating personal and cultural shifts, exploring identity, memory, and the drive for growth. Though the short ends before fully exploring all its rich themes, it leaves the audience wanting more—a sign of both strong storytelling and compelling world-building.

My Take: Worth the Watch
With stellar casting, a captivating look and feel, and a story that lingers, Reminiscences of the Green Revolution is a worth-watching short film for fans of indie drama and visually bold cinema.

Film Description:
A beautifully shot drama that blends striking visuals, strong performances, and layered themes of memory, identity, and transformation—though it feels destined for expansion into a longer format.

Hashtags

#GreenRevolutionFilm #DramaShortFilm #IndieShortFilm #IndependentCinema #DeanColinMarcial #MustWatchShort #ShortFilmReview #IndieFilmCommunity #VisualStorytelling #FilmFestivalShort

Dirty Directed by Matthew Puccini

Dirty

COMING-OF-AGE DRAMA SHORT FILM
Directed by Matthew Puccini
14 min. Scripted Short – USA

Dirty is an honest and heartfelt coming-of-age drama short film that tackles early sexual experiences in a way rarely seen on screen. With raw storytelling and genuine performances, this indie short film is as impactful as it is important.

What makes Dirty stand out is its authenticity. Instead of sensationalizing or oversimplifying, the film portrays intimate moments with nuance, care, and realism—making it resonate deeply with audiences who appreciate LGBTQ+ short films and character-driven dramas.

My Take: Must Watch
Dirty is a must-watch coming-of-age short film that offers both representation and resonance. Matthew Puccini captures the vulnerability of youth while telling a story that feels universal and deeply personal at the same time.

Film Description:
This film authentically addresses early sexual experiences in a way that is rarely presented in cinema—making it an essential addition to the world of independent short films.

Hashtags

#DirtyFilm #ComingOfAgeShort #LGBTQShortFilm #IndieShortFilm #IndependentCinema #MustWatchShort #ShortFilmReview #IndieFilmCommunity #MatthewPuccini #DramaShortFilm #AuthenticStorytelling

Bella and the Slasher by Justin H. Reich

Bella and the Slasher

FANTASY DRAMA THRILLER SHORT FILM
Directed by Justin H. Reich
12 min. Scripted Short – USA

Bella and the Slasher is a captivating fantasy drama thriller short film that blurs the line between darkness and connection. Visually rich and emotionally layered, this indie short film explores themes of identity, belonging, and the haunting allure of the past.

The story follows Bella, a girl who doesn’t fit in—and doesn’t really want to. While attempting to connect with her shadowy past, she stumbles upon an unusual kind of friendship. The mix of thriller elements, fantasy tones, and drama-driven storytelling gives the short a unique atmosphere that lingers well after the credits roll.

My Take: Must Watch
With its striking visuals, intriguing narrative, and unsettling yet heartfelt approach, Bella and the Slasher stands out as a fantasy thriller short film worth experiencing. It’s a must-watch for fans of dark fantasy, indie thrillers, and emotionally complex short films.

Film Description:
Bella is a girl that can't seem to fit in—but also doesn’t want to. In an attempt to connect with her shadowy past, she discovers the most unusual type of friendship.

Hashtags

#BellaAndTheSlasher #FantasyDrama #ThrillerShortFilm #DarkFantasyShort #IndieShortFilm #IndependentCinema #MustWatchShort #ShortFilmReview #IndieFilmCommunity #JustinHReich #FantasyThriller #FilmFestivalShort #IndieFilmReview

The Mirror by Joel Kohn

The Mirror

FANTASY DRAMA SHORT FILM
Directed by Joel Kohn
22 min. Scripted Short – USA

The Mirror is a beautifully crafted fantasy drama short film that combines mystery, history, and emotional storytelling. With its cinematic visuals and moving narrative, this indie short film explores how memory and time can connect across generations.

The story begins when a young girl discovers a mysterious antique mirror in the basement of her ailing grandmother’s home. What starts as a moment of curiosity quickly turns into something extraordinary, as the mirror becomes a portal to the past. Suddenly, the girl finds herself transported into Nazi-occupied Poland, caught between worlds where history and imagination collide.

The film’s strength lies in its balance of magical realism and historical weight. The fantasy short film elements enrich the emotional resonance of the story, while the World War II setting adds layers of tension and meaning. For fans of independent short films that merge genre with poignant drama, The Mirror is a compelling watch.

My Take: Worth The Watch
With its strong performances, elegant design, and deeply engaging premise, The Mirror is a standout in the world of independent fantasy dramas. It’s a short film that not only entertains but also invites reflection on family, history, and the power of imagination.

Film Description:
When a young girl discovers a mysterious antique mirror in the basement of her ailing grandmother’s house, she accidentally opens a window between time that allows her to cross over into war-torn Nazi-occupied Poland.

Follow Joel Kohn here: joelkohn.com/short-films-1

Hashtags

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Gun Metal Max Directed by Jonathan Brooks

Gun Metal Max

COMING-OF-AGE SHORT FILM
Directed by [Director’s Name if available]
14 min. Scripted Short – USA

Gun Metal Max is a heartfelt coming-of-age short film that captures the wonder of childhood imagination. Centered on Ben, a 10-year-old boy, the story highlights the powerful role superheroes and play can have in shaping a young person’s world.

Ben spends most of his time in the imaginative universe of Gun Metal Max, his favorite comic book hero. To him, Gun Metal Max represents strength, bravery, and the eternal defense of light. This indie short beautifully balances childhood innocence with themes of identity and growth, making it an uplifting and nostalgic watch.

My Take: Worth Watching
With its touching story, strong performances, and engaging visuals, Gun Metal Max is a must-see short film about childhood imagination that resonates with kids-at-heart and fans of indie storytelling.

Film Description:
Ben is a 10-year-old boy who escapes into the world of Gun Metal Max, his comic book hero. Recreating his hero’s adventures in his playroom, Ben finds joy, courage, and inspiration.

CLICK HERE TO WATCH

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The Voice In Your Head Directed by Graham Parks

The Voice In Your Head

COMEDY SHORT FILM
Directed by Graham Parkes
14 min. Scripted Short – USA

I recently watched The Voice In Your Head, a surreal comedy short film directed by Graham Parkes, and it had me laughing from start to finish. Much like Basic, this is one of those shorts you simply have to see—I won’t spoil a moment of it. What makes this film stand out is its ability to balance absurd comedy with sharp writing, turning an everyday office setting into a hilarious, unsettling, and unforgettable experience.

A Surreal Comedy with Bite

The film follows an office worker, played by Lewis Pullman, who has resigned himself to spending every waking hour tortured by the negative voice in his head. Just when it seems unbearable, a concerned coworker (Mat Wright) decides to step in, leading to a surreal chain of events. With its sharp timing, clever dialogue, and offbeat humor, The Voice In Your Head highlights Graham Parkes’ talent for creating dark comedy shorts that leave a lasting impression.

Festival Recognition and Awards

The Voice In Your Head premiered at the SXSW 2020 Film Festival as an official selection. It went on to win “Best Comedy” and the Jury Award for Best Short in Short of the Week’s Short Awards in 2020. These accolades underscore the film’s blend of originality, humor, and cinematic craft.

My Take: Must Watch

For fans of indie short films, surreal storytelling, or award-winning comedy, The Voice In Your Head is a must-see. Its combination of sharp performances, inventive writing, and absurd yet relatable humor make it one of the most memorable short comedy films of recent years.

Film Description

A surreal comedy about an office worker who has resigned himself to spending every waking hour tortured by the negative voice in his head—until a concerned coworker decides to take action.

Written and Directed by: Graham Parkes
Starring: Lewis Pullman & Mat Wright

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Waffle Directed by Carlyn Hudson

Waffle

DARK COMEDY SHORT FILM
Directed by Carlyn Hudson
14 min. Scripted Short – USA

Waffle is a bizarre and entertaining dark comedy short film that keeps you laughing while also leaving you slightly unsettled. This indie short film thrives on its strange story and surprising twists, making it a unique entry into the world of independent cinema.

The story follows Kerry, who attends a sleepover with Katie, a socially awkward, mysteriously orphaned heiress. What seems like an innocent gathering quickly takes unexpected turns as Kerry learns that Katie always gets what she wants.

My Take: Must Watch
Waffle is a surreal and funny indie comedy short film that’s both unpredictable and engaging. Fans of offbeat humor, dark comedies, and independent short films will find this a must-watch.

Film Description:
Kerry attends a sleepover with Katie, a socially awkward, mysteriously orphaned heiress. Kerry learns the hard way that Katie always gets what she wants.

CLICK TO WATCH

Hashtags

#WaffleFilm #DarkComedy #ComedyShortFilm #IndieShortFilm #IndependentCinema #MustWatchShort #ShortFilmReview #IndieFilmCommunity #CarlynHudson #SurrealComedy #FilmFestivalShort

Lost Treasure of the Valley Directed by Robert Husted

Lost Treasure of the Valley

FANTASY COMEDY SHORT FILM
Directed by Robert Husted
25 min. Scripted Short – USA

Lost Treasure of the Valley is an absurd, hilarious, and completely entertaining fantasy comedy short film that feels like a love letter to campy B-movies of the 1980s. With its ridiculous premise and surprisingly clever dialogue, the film captures the offbeat charm that makes cult-style comedies so addictive.

From the first scene, the short embraces its absurdity and runs with it. A photographer and an adventurer discover that the countless abandoned shopping carts scattered across LA’s San Fernando Valley aren’t just urban eyesores—they’re clues leading to a hidden treasure. What they uncover is a cave off Sepulveda Blvd., guarded by none other than a dragon.

As someone who loves B-level sci-fi and comedy, I couldn’t stop laughing at both the sheer ridiculousness of the story and the legitimately sharp dialogue. The humor works on multiple levels, and the world-building is bizarrely satisfying. And yes—after watching, I’ll never look at abandoned shopping carts the same way again.

My Take: Worth The Watch
With its unique concept, campy charm, and laugh-out-loud moments, Lost Treasure of the Valley is a standout indie fantasy comedy short film. If you dig quirky storytelling and absurd B-movie fun, this one is not to be missed.

Film Description:
A photographer and an adventurer discover that all of the abandoned shopping carts in LA’s San Fernando Valley lead to a hidden cave off Sepulveda Blvd. with a lost treasure inside—guarded by a dragon!​

Hashtags

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