The Best 2016 Oscar-Nominated Short Films From Each Category

As promised, last weekend I caught up with each of this year's Oscar-nominated short films--and have identified a clear winner in each of the three categories (live action, animated, and documentary). Which probably means that none of them will actually win.

But anyway, here they are:

DOCUMENTARY (SHORT SUBJECT)
Last Day of Freedom

Brief take: In the ongoing debate about capital punishment, this compelling narrative (told strictly through sketch animation) humanizes the conversation in way that doesn't outwardly support either agenda. Rather, it tells a story about the living victims of capital punishment, a black man who turned his brother in for a crime--only to have the court (and his own lawyer) be negligent in his defense.
Watch the trailer.

SHORT FILM (ANIMATED)
World of Tomorrow

Brief take: Ever been curious to get your palm read? Young Emily gets an unsolicited look into her future from someone who's lived it. From the influence of new technology to humanity's dark fate, the narrative doesn't shy away from heavy subjects exposed to it its child subject. Unlike the many children's movies that romanticize the world around them, for fear of jeopardizing their innocence, this one has a gentle yet honest conversation about it that doesn't come off facetious.
Watch the trailer.

SHORT FILM (LIVE ACTION)
Everything Will Be Okay (Alles Wird Gut)

Brief take: Most of the time, when we hear stories about a child being kidnapped by their dad, we're instantly manipulated to turn him into a villain. This film tells the story through the eyes of the father, so desperate to spend more time with his child that he goes through drastic (and unfortunate) measures to do so. Punctuated by a heartbreaking performance by Simon Schwarz, this is definitely a film that will stick with you.
Watch the trailer.

Each of these short films are in theaters today and will be available On Demand February 23.