Shorts 1: We Grow Up Quick

Love, courage, trauma: kids feel all of these stronger than most.

Short films may contain mature content and may not be appropriate for all ages.

Little Genes

Directors: Amy Redford, Skye Emerson

United States. 2025. 16 min.

In 1987, on a weekend camping trip in Utah’s beautiful Wasatch Mountains, fourteen-year-old Arlo Murphy is eager to prove he can be a world explorer scout like his dad, while his parents grapple with Arlo’s evolving gender identity.

Somewhere to Be
Director: Christy Chan

United States. 2025. 9 min.

In this dark comedy, an eight-year-old girl has to grow up quickly during a tense car ride. Based on a true event. Set in the 1980's American South.

Deeply Troubled

Director: Sebastian Schnabel, Cici Yixuan

MN Made. United States. 2024. 11 min.

12-year-old Oliver is convinced that his changing voice killed his goldfish. To prevent further harm, he goes on a journey to buy a helium balloon.

Recesses
Director: Dylan Trupiano

United States. 2025. 16 min.

A midwestern elementary school secretary waits with a student to be picked up after being disciplined for an “inappropriate” drawing.

I & Me

Director: Elizabeth Chatelain

MN Made. United States. 2025. 10 min.

In order to “heal”, Sam must embrace her inner Me and kill her I.

An Excess Baggage

Director: Myriam Garcia Marienstras

France. 2025. 16 min.

Sophie hides her unease within the intense bond she shares with her daughter, Lila. When Lila leaves for summer camp, Sophie finds herself alone for the first time, overwhelmed by separation and emotional dependency.

The Taste of Porkbelly

Director: Sophie Shui

Taiwan. 2024. 20 min.
When a young boy discovers that his mother is secretly trading "flesh for flesh" to feed her family, he refuses to eat the pork belly she cooks.

When Big People Lie
Director: Gianfranco Fernández-Ruiz

United States. 2024. 14 min.
Young Elvis’ world begins to sink when his mother marries an immigrant stranger for money.