Looking for a quick cinematic fix filled with female perspectives? Netflix offers a treasure trove of short films directed by talented women. Here are 10 captivating stories, each under 30 minutes, that will leave you thinking long after the credits roll.
Forgive Us Our Trespasses (2022, 14m)
In Nazi-occupied Europe, a young boy with a disability finds himself the target of a ruthless regime. Forced to make a life-or-death choice, he displays bravery and resilience in the face of unimaginable danger.
Sitara: Let Girls Dream (2020, 15m)
This silent film set in 1970s Pakistan tells the story of Pari, a young girl with a head full of dreams. As she longs to become a pilot and soar through the skies, she remains unaware of her father’s plans for an arranged marriage, a tradition that threatens to clip her wings before she can even take flight.
Heart Shot (2022, 19m)
Action and romance collide in this short film. Teenagers Nikki and Sam are a couple deeply in love, planning their future together. But their idyllic world is shattered when a dark secret from Nikki’s past resurfaces, forcing them to confront a dangerous threat that could tear them apart.
Weathering (2023, 20m)
A journalist grappling with the profound loss of her baby retreats home to grieve. However, her solitude is shattered by unsettling visions and terrifying attacks. This chilling thriller explores the depths of grief, resilience, and the struggle to find solace in the face of unimaginable pain.
The Room (2019, 17m)
A woman receives a sudden call to collect her estranged father’s belongings after his death. Stepping into his empty apartment, she sifts through his possessions, a bittersweet journey that forces her to confront complicated emotions and re-evaluate their fractured relationship.
Poacher (2018, 28m)
In a daring act of defiance, a farmer takes a stand against a dangerous international terrorist group. Risking his life, he steals illicit ivory, but must now outsmart and outrun his ruthless pursuers in this edge-of-your-seat drama.
Amsterdam to Anatolia (2019, 6m)
Sparks fly in this short film that transcends cultural boundaries. An Arab man and a woman of Anatolian origin find themselves drawn together in a forbidden encounter. Despite societal restrictions, their brief connection leaves a lasting impact.
Like Twenty Impossibles (2003, 16m)
A Palestinian film crew on their way to Jerusalem encounters an unexpected checkpoint. Their encounter with armed soldiers unfolds on camera, capturing a raw and thought-provoking portrayal of tension and the complexities of living in a conflict zone.
Animal (2016, 13m)
A young boy navigates the complexities of his family life. Caught between a domineering father, an ambitious mother, and a flamboyant cook, he struggles to find his place in this unconventional household.
Aya (2017, 24m)
Set in Tunisia, this heartwarming tale follows Aya, a young girl who cherishes the simple joy of flying kites with her friends. However, her dreams of freedom are challenged by her father’s strict religious beliefs. Will Aya find a way to reconcile her faith with her yearning for independence?
