What is a very short movie?

What Exactly Is a Very Short Movie?

When you think of a movie, you probably imagine a two-hour blockbuster with sweeping scenes and dramatic plot twists. But not all films need hours to tell a compelling story. In fact, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences (AMPAS) defines a short film as an original motion picture with a running time of 40 minutes or less, including all credits.

This means a "very short movie" can be anything from a few seconds to just under 40 minutes. Some shorts clock in at under a minute—powerful, concise bursts of storytelling that deliver emotion, humor, or suspense in seconds. Others take their time, using the full 40-minute window to build characters and tension, often rivaling feature films in impact.

Short films are more than just practice runs for aspiring filmmakers. Many are award-worthy works of art. In fact, AMPAS gives out Oscars in several short film categories—Live Action, Animation, and Documentary—showcasing how influential these brief narratives can be.

Because of their length, short films thrive at film festivals, online platforms, and streaming services. They allow creators to experiment with bold ideas without the budget or time constraints of a full-length feature. For viewers, they offer a quick yet meaningful cinematic experience—perfect for a coffee break or a moment of reflection.

So next time you're scrolling through content, don’t overlook the short ones. Some of the most moving, inventive, and unforgettable stories in cinema have come in small packages. A great story doesn't need hours to leave a lasting impression—sometimes, all it needs is a few powerful minutes.