• OPENING NIGHT

Opening Night is where the vibes begin. Filmmakers, industry folks, and film lovers gather for a high-energy kickoff packed with bold, brilliant, bite-sized cinema. We’ve selected a lineup that captures so much of what ShortFest is all about — a little laughter, connection, and a whole lot of heart.

And to really kick it off ShortFest style, join us right after the screening at Boozehounds for drinks, dancing, and all the magic that makes ShortFest, well... ShortFest.

Showtimes

Tuesday, June 24, 2025

Festival Theaters 5

Short Films

THE SUNNY

A devoted single dad is blindsided when his 10-year-old son asks to live with the neighbor upstairs instead. Who says you can’t choose your parents?

NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY

A grieving septuagenarian widow with two (literal) left feet rediscovers herself at a ballroom dance studio.

PASSARINHO

Olivia and Laura, two 13-year-old teenagers, have a plan to get the autograph of Passarinho, a Brazilian soccer idol, but before they can put the plan into action, Olivia has her first period.

BAA-BAA!

New to the city, a family must figure out what to do with a goat that was suddenly gifted to them as part of a charity program.

SHANTI RIDES SHOTGUN

On Manhattan's jam-packed streets, NYC's most iconic driving instructor prepares students for the road ahead.

TIME CRISIS

Three times a week, Eddie Esguerra goes to Los Angeles arcades to play Time Crisis. Day after day, he hones his unique ability to play alone in two-player mode. As we follow Eddie, we learn that his ultimate goal is not just to master the game, but to make friends and find a community.

RETIREMENT PLAN

At odds with his life, Ray dreams of the beauty and joy he will find in retirement.

ShortFest 2025