This year, a lot of cheering and very little tearing
Put the tissues away. In contrast to previous years in this category and the feature documentaries this year, this collection of nominated documentary shorts is a collection of vibrant, uplifting, and truly inspirational films. They offer a delightful viewing experience, making them perfect for streaming at home.
Below, you'll find a brief overview of each, along with where to watch them and their prospects for the upcoming Oscars on Sunday. Enjoy!
The Last Repair Shop (39 minutes)
Since 1959, Los Angeles has been one of the few American cities to offer provision and repair of musical instruments for public school students —at no charge — to ensure no student is deprived of the joy of music. This documentary delves into the lives of four craftsmen, each expertly skilled in a specific section of the orchestra, alongside the students whose experiences have been transformed by the shop's services.
"A lot of people see a broken thing, and they just think it's broken." That line from the film could apply to both the students in this film and the work the artisans do. This beautifully shot film celebrates the enduring impact of music education on the community. While it's not the frontrunner to win, it's my prediction for a surprise win. It's wonderful.
Where to find it: Disney+
The ABCs of Book Banning (27 minutes)
Adults in Florida have said a lot about books with LGBTQ topics and racial issues, but this film proposes that children have a lot to say about the legislation behind book banning in public schools. Documentary titan and co-producer and co-director Sheila Nevins of MTV Documentary Film recently announced her retirement and a win here would make a memorable send-off. This is the frontrunner to win the support of the documentary community. However, everyone in all categories votes for the final Oscar win.
The children showcased in this short film express confusion and anger, mirroring the sentiments of Grace Linn, a 100-year-old protester against the ban. Linn delivers a deeply impassioned speech, echoing the emotional intensity of this often heartbreaking film.
Where to find it: Paramount+
Nǎi Nai & Wài Pó (17 minutes)
Backed by Walt Disney Pictures, this endearing and uplifting short showcases the filmmakers' paternal and maternal grandmothers, who share a home, dance, and fart together. It has garnered significant attention as a beloved underdog story. However, I find it too lightweight and insignificant to take the top prize.
Nǎi Nai & Wài Pó (17 minutes)
Backed by Walt Disney Pictures, this endearing and uplifting short showcases the filmmakers' paternal and maternal grandmothers, who share a home, dance, and fart together. It has garnered significant attention as a beloved underdog story. However, I find it too lightweight and insignificant to take the top prize.
Where to find it: Hulu, Disney+
The Barber of Little Rock (35 minutes)
This doc illuminates the story of an African American barber in Arkansas who founded a nonprofit community bank aimed at addressing the racial wealth gap. Its emphasis on community empowerment and impact has garnered widespread support and acclaim, making it a compelling contender for an upset.
The Barber of Little Rock (35 minutes)
This doc illuminates the story of an African American barber in Arkansas who founded a nonprofit community bank aimed at addressing the racial wealth gap. Its emphasis on community empowerment and impact has garnered widespread support and acclaim, making it a compelling contender for an upset.
Where to find it: The New Yorker online
Island in Between (20 minutes)
Amidst the pandemic, filmmaker S. Leo Chiang offers a poignant reflection on China-Taiwan relations as he revisits his childhood home in Taiwan. This doc comes from the The New York Times and is the least likely to win on Sunday.
Island in Between (20 minutes)
Amidst the pandemic, filmmaker S. Leo Chiang offers a poignant reflection on China-Taiwan relations as he revisits his childhood home in Taiwan. This doc comes from the The New York Times and is the least likely to win on Sunday.
Where to find it: The New York Times online
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