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Writer's pictureTop Shorts Team

Top Shorts October Finalists: A Celebration of 15 Standout Films




October’s Top Shorts finalists have emerged from a remarkable pool of talent, each earning not only category nominations but also a coveted spot for Film of the Month.


These 15 shorts showcase innovation, diversity, and storytelling at its finest. Let’s dive into what makes each film a must-watch.


  1. Liminal City – Directed by Eric Blue

    This experimental piece invites viewers into a dark, surreal cityscape, sparking emotions through mood rather than narrative. Shot on 16mm, Liminal City explores reality—or the lack thereof—asking audiences to simply feel.


  2. My Turn! – Directed by Isabelle Maria Tumboimbela and Daisha Lin Sherman

    An animated adventure into sisterhood, this lighthearted race to the bathroom between siblings brings Southeast Asian representation to life with classic Saturday morning cartoon charm.


  3. Somewhere In Brooklyn – Directed by Brandon D. Wilkerson

    This high-stakes crime drama follows a police officer rekindling a romance amidst a deadly setup. With the grit of Brooklyn as its backdrop, this film promises tension and romance in stunning 4K.


  4. The Imagination of a Child – Directed by Cesare Catania

    A reflective, black-and-white documentary, this film bridges childhood and adulthood through the eyes of an artist. Exploring self-identity, it serves as an ode to creativity and cultural understanding.


  5. FaceID – Directed by Evan Nievinski

    A gripping blend of drama and horror, FaceID dives into obsession and jealousy as a young woman’s suspicions push her to the extreme.


  6. SIN3056843 – Directed by Dustan J. Hlady

    This mysterious web series takes us on a journey through the paranormal and psychological, as the protagonist investigates a cult classic film that may just alter her own existence.


  7. 1000 Days In: The Romelia Farms Story – Directed by Jesse McMinn

    This heartwarming documentary captures the resilience of a family rescuing animals at Romelia Farms, highlighting their journey of hope and commitment to animal welfare.


  8. Dahlia – Directed by Geovanna Escobar

    A powerful student film, Dahlia tells the emotional story of a tattoo artist reconciling with her estranged father while uncovering layers of her past.


  9. The Night Zoo – Directed by Niama Al-Nima

    Nominated for Best Cinematography, this short follows a teenager’s perilous night spent with a troubled family, skillfully weaving tension and heartfelt moments.


  10. Bottom-Feeder – Directed by Brandon D. Hill

    In this thrilling narrative, a reformed criminal faces his past to protect his estranged daughter, bringing drama and intensity to the screen.


  11. Stay At Home, Mom – Directed by Mary Zappulla

    This narrative looks at the chaotic life of motherhood, as a mom pushed to her limits deals with the challenges of adorable—and exhausting—offspring.


  12. Thoughts Of Life – Directed by Kunnatam Wongpuapan

    This moving drama about a young girl’s battle with a rare disease portrays love and fragility, touching viewers with its emotional depth and the universal quest for reassurance.


  13. Regular Day – Directed by Liam Yang

    In a near-future world, genetically modified creatures blur the lines between humans and animals. This micro film challenges viewers with its vision of humanity’s evolutionary journey.


  14. NOBODY – Directed by Alberto Martín-Aragón

    A haunting experimental film, NOBODY explores the desolation of loneliness and the impact of lost human connection in a beautifully melancholic style.


  15. Pulse of Restoration – Directed by Denys Derkach

    A tribute to hope and resilience amidst Ukraine's trials, this expressive dance and music video brings the themes of transformation and renewal to life.


Each film in this lineup delivers fresh perspectives and memorable storytelling, embodying the spirit of Top Shorts and the vibrant future of short films.

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