OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Salomon Ligthelm’s MOEDER is a quietly devastating meditation on grief, loss, and the lingering aftermath of tragedy

MOEDER, the latest short film from South African director Salomon Ligthelm, is a quietly devastating meditation on grief, loss, and the lingering aftermath of tragedy. Set against the backdrop of the Ukrainian-Russian conflict, the film takes a unique, ground-level approach to one of the most harrowing events of recent history: the downing of Malaysian Airlines Flight MH17 over Eastern Ukraine in 2014. The narrative centers … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Salomon Ligthelm’s MOEDER is a quietly devastating meditation on grief, loss, and the lingering aftermath of tragedy

OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Rhys Chapman’s RYAN CAN’T READ is a heartfelt exploration of literacy struggles and human resilience

Rhys Chapman’s Ryan Can’t Read emerges as a powerful testament to the triumph of the human spirit in the face of adversity. This British drama, which has qualified for consideration at the 2025 Academy Awards, shines a much-needed spotlight on an issue affecting millions: adult literacy. The film centers on Ryan (Lewis Ian Bray), a young man whose struggles with reading have held him back … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Rhys Chapman’s RYAN CAN’T READ is a heartfelt exploration of literacy struggles and human resilience

OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Wes Andre Goodrich’s MEAL TICKET is unforgettable

Directed by Wes Andre Goodrich, MEAL TICKET is a taut, high-stakes short film that explores the complex intersection of morality and ambition. Set against the backdrop of the fast-paced music industry, the film follows Saint (played by Siddiq Saunderson), a young music manager on the cusp of his client’s big debut tour. But just twelve minutes before showtime, Saint receives life-altering news that forces him to make … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Wes Andre Goodrich’s MEAL TICKET is unforgettable

OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Krit Komkrichwarakool’s AUGANIC – a genre descending LGBTQ+ short

Directed by Krit Komkrichwarakool, AUGANIC is a visually striking and emotionally poignant exploration of love, intimacy, and the supernatural. This beautifully crafted LGBTQ+ short film follows a married couple facing financial hardship, only to encounter a mysterious phenomenon that challenges and deepens their relationship in unexpected ways. The couple’s discovery of a special ability during an intimate moment leads them down a path of self-discovery and connection, … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: Krit Komkrichwarakool’s AUGANIC – a genre descending LGBTQ+ short

OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: The Threat of Automation in Kevin & Kelly Luu’s TECHNICIANS

In Technicians, directors Kevin and Kelly Luu explore the intersection of automation and the Vietnamese-American immigrant experience. The short film centers on David (J. Alphonse Nicholson), an automation technician tasked with installing self-service manicure stations at a nail salon. There, he meets Hoa, a Vietnamese-American nail tech whose job is at risk. The film’s understated yet powerful narrative delves into the very real struggles of immigrant … Continue reading OSCAR SPOTLIGHT: The Threat of Automation in Kevin & Kelly Luu’s TECHNICIANS