If the Academy judged features by the same standards that they do live action shorts, the best picture ballot would be full of starry, quasi-political issue movies: well-meaning but manipulative films like 'Father Stu' and 'The Janes.' In this category, it's the message that matters to Oscar voters, which makes this year's '2024 Oscar Nominated Short Films: Live Action' program (available in theaters and on demand from ShortsTV) one of the most frustrating lineups in recent memory. The program opens with a Netflix short, 'The After,' which portrays a businessman played by David Oyelowo dealing with grief in a contrived manner, lacking authenticity in its emotional delivery.
Another short film, 'Red, White & Blue,' directed by Nazrin Choudhury, offers a poignant response to the overturning of Roe v. Wade, focusing on a single mother's struggle to afford an abortion for her third child. While the film's twist may feel manipulative, its emphasis on female solidarity is a powerful theme.
'Knight of Fortune,' a Danish short film, explores themes of grief and closure as two mourners navigate their emotions at a mortuary. Despite its attempts at humor, the film falls short of delivering a truly edgy narrative.
Canadian director Vincent René-Lortie's 'Invincible' stands out as a compelling nominee, delving into the mysterious death of a troubled teenager without imposing a definitive interpretation, thanks to a strong lead performance.
The highlight of the lineup is Wes Anderson's 'The Wonderful Story of Henry Sugar,' a Roald Dahl adaptation that showcases Anderson's signature style and intricate storytelling. With a star-studded cast and self-aware narrative, the film captivates audiences with its clever fable.
Despite the mixed quality of the shorts, Anderson's work shines as a standout contender for the Oscar, blending whimsical storytelling with visual flair to create a memorable viewing experience.
