Which shorts make the cut-offs? Check them all out at IFC

I’ve seen live-action short films before. But this was the first time I actually went to a theatre to watch them. So I found myself wondering if anybody actually attends the movie theatre to watch a short. I mean, in this case, the screening for the 2011 Oscar nominated live-action shorts was like a feature length film and well worth the ticket and the excursion to IFC Center. But, how often do people go see a 15-30 minute film, or do they screen them before or after a regular film, or are there theatres meant just for short films? Before the first even started, I was worrying about the logistics of the thing and if the filmmakers ever made a profit anything from their art. It’s a strange thought that might just stem from my hope that I survive in the dwindling journalism industry or realize my own dreams of smalltime filmmaking –wishful thinking. But I always find myself wishing these independents well, that’s all.

But especially upon leaving the theatre did I feel that the filmmakers of  these shorts certainly deserve that strange thought and recognition. Their works are these complete but concise reels of film that hit me with the force of different emotions along varying plot lines in so short a span, but I was compelled to quickly recover from each in time for the next nominee. Sunil Ramsamooj, who was also at the screening, agreed.

“In some ways it was better than a film. The shorts were indeed short but no less powerful than a full length feature film.[…] You didn’t get a chance to get tired by a film, if anything, each left you wanting more,” he said.

I think I’m an official convert to this annual event now. Perhaps I can even form my thoughts of potential future nominees by watching the latest shorts here.