The Academy has announced the nominations for the 97th Oscars, and the short film categories are brimming with exceptional talent and creativity. The nominations were revealed by actor-writer-comedians Rachel Sennott and Bowen Yang on January 23, 2025, from the Academy’s Samuel Goldwyn Theater. This year’s short film nominees are a testament to the diverse and innovative storytelling that defines the genre.
Best Live Action Short Film
The nominees for Best Live Action Short Film are a mix of poignant dramas and thought-provoking narratives:
- “A Lien” by Sam Cutler-Kreutz and David Cutler-Kreutz
- “Anuja” by Adam J. Graves and Suchitra Mattai
- “I’m Not a Robot“ (The New Yorker) by Victoria Warmerdam and Trent
- “The Last Ranger“ by Cindy Lee and Darwin Shaw
- “The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent” (Manifest) by Nebojša Slijepčević and Danijel Pek
Best Animated Short Film
The Best Animated Short Film category showcases a variety of animation styles and compelling stories:
- “Beautiful Men” (Miyu Distribution) by Nicolas Keppens and Brecht Van Elslande
- “In the Shadow of the Cypress” by Shirin Sohani and Hossein Molayemi
- “Magic Candies” (Toei Animation) by Daisuke Nishio and Takashi Washio
- “Wander to Wonder” (Miyu Distribution) by Nina Gantz and Stienette Bosklopper
- “Yuck!” (Miyu Distribution) by Loïc Espuche and Juliette Marquet
Best Documentary Short Film
The Best Documentary Short Film nominees tackle pressing social and cultural issues with depth and sensitivity:
- “Death by Numbers” by Kim A. Snyder and Janique L. Robillard
- “I Am Ready, Warden” (MTV Documentary Films) by Smriti Mundhra and Maya Gnyp
- “Incident” (The New Yorker) by Bill Morrison and Jamie Kalven
- “Instruments of a Beating Heart” (The New York Times Op-Docs/Cineric Creative) by Ema Ryan Yamazaki and Eric Nyari
- “The Only Girl in the Orchestra” (Netflix) by Molly O’Brien and Lisa Remington
The 97th Oscars will be held on Sunday, March 2, 2025, at the Dolby® Theatre at Ovation Hollywood. The ceremony will be televised live on ABC, streamed live on Hulu, and broadcast in over 200 territories worldwide.
These nominations highlight the incredible talent and diversity within the short film community. Whether you’re a fan of live-action, animation, or documentary shorts, there’s something for everyone to celebrate in this year’s lineup. Stay tuned to Indie Shorts Mag for more updates and in-depth coverage of the 97th Oscars.
