The short film categories were something I was not going to tackle pre-nomination, as it is impossible for me to see the films this early. However, in the case of the Live Action Short category, I have had the privilege of seeing four of the 10 films that have been shortlisted for nomination.

This by no means makes my predictions definitive. But I will do what I can to shed some light on the elusive subject.

Best Live Action Short

• Nocturne in Black
• The Rifle, The Jackal, The Wolf and The Boy
• Sing (Mindenki)
• Timecode
• The Way of Tea

Will Win: Who Knows

 

Full disclosure: I have only seen three of these five films. Graffiti, the fourth film I’ve seen from the shortlist, is good but might not be strong enough narratively to make the cut. I have similar reservations about The Rifle, The Jackal, The Wolf and the Boy. The two shorts are similar in multiple regards. But I think The Rifle has some great technical aspects that could give it an edge.

I have a good feeling about Timecode. It is quirky and heartening in a way that feels refreshing. This is similar to last year’s winner, Stutterer. Sing is also good both narratively and cinematically. Honestly, anything could happen in this category at this point.

 

As always, thanks for reading!

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—Alex Brannan (@TheAlexBrannan)