Independent, animated series by independent Creators
Climate Emergency
(2021)
Runtime: 2 minutes 6 seconds
Creator: Dinos & Teacups
Directors: Dinos & Teacups, Carlos Alegría, Ala Nunu, Martynas Auž, Hend & Lamiaa, Ilona Poliszczuk, Yves Paradis
Music by: John Poon
Description:
Climate Emergency is a visually striking animated short that brings the global climate crisis to life through a patchwork of unique, emotionally charged segments—each created by a different animator from around the world. Using the “exquisite corpse” technique, the film flows seamlessly from one perspective to another, forming a mosaic of climate realities—from rising sea levels and wildfires to ecological resilience and hope.
With each contributor building on the last, the film becomes a collaborative call to action—packed with color, urgency, and global spirit. Short, stunning, and unforgettable, Climate Emergency proves that animation can inspire the change our planet desperately needs.
Last Frames
Runtime: 56 seconds
Creator & Director: [Information not available]
Music by: [Information not available]
Description:
Last Frames is a concise and evocative animated short that captures the fleeting nature of moments and memories. Through a blend of striking visuals and emotive storytelling, the film invites viewers to reflect on the transient beauty of life’s final moments. Its minimalist approach and poignant narrative make it a memorable piece that resonates long after viewing.
From Over Here
From Over Here
Runtime: 9 minutes 15 seconds
Creator & Director: [Information not available]
Music by: [Information not available]
Description:
From Over Here is an evocative animated short that delves into themes of isolation and connection. Through its unique visual storytelling, the film invites viewers to explore the boundaries between solitude and companionship, offering a poignant reflection on the human experience.
Dust Bath
Runtime: 2 minutes 10 seconds
Creator & Director: Seth Smith
Music by: Seth Smith
Description:
Dust Bath is an existential animated short that delves into themes of mortality and the cycle of life. Set in an overgrown cemetery, the film features a chicken engaging in a contemplative dust bath, accompanied by mystical sonic elements and fowl subtitles. This surreal piece invites viewers to reflect on existence and the natural order, all within a brief yet impactful runtime.
Pass the Ball
Pass the Ball
Runtime: 2 minutes 39 seconds
Creator & Director: Nathan Boey
Collaborators: 40 animators from around the world
Production Company: Spy Films
Description:
Pass the Ball is a dynamic and collaborative animated short that showcases the creativity of 40 animators from across the globe. Conceived and directed by Canadian animator Nathan Boey, the film employs an “exquisite corpse” technique where each artist contributes a unique three-second segment featuring a ball. As the ball transitions from one animator to the next, it morphs through various styles and scenarios, creating a seamless and eclectic visual journey. Spanning 40 months in production, this project celebrates international collaboration and the boundless possibilities of animation.
ADHD
Pass the Ball
Runtime: 4 minutes 48 seconds
Creator & Director: [Independent Creator – Name currently not listed publicly]
Music by: [Independent Contributor]
Description:
ADHD is a powerful and emotionally resonant animated short that explores the inner world of individuals living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. Using abstract visuals, shifting animation styles, and a deeply personal narrative tone, the film portrays the challenges of focus, overstimulation, and self-understanding.
The short offers an authentic and compassionate portrayal of ADHD—not as a flaw, but as a complex part of identity—aiming to raise awareness and spark deeper conversation around neurodiversity.
Surveillance – Season 2
Surveillance – Season 2
Runtime: 1 minute 20 seconds
Creator & Director: Oliver Latta
Studio: Extraweg
Producer: Oliver Latta
Description:
Surveillance – Season 2 is a concise and thought-provoking animated short that delves into themes of privacy, observation, and the digital age. Through its unique visual storytelling, the film invites viewers to reflect on the pervasive nature of surveillance in modern society.
Man on the Chair
(2014)
Runtime: 6 minutes 55 seconds
Creator & Director: Jeong Dahee
Producer: Ron Dyens
Studio: Sacrebleu Productions
Music by: Ma Sang-woo
Voice-over: Seo Younghwa
Sound Design: Lee Jusuk, Kim Won
Foley Recording: Lee Inkyung
Bass: Hwang Yin
Description:
Man on the Chair is a contemplative animated short that delves into themes of existence and self-perception. The film portrays a man who is tormented by doubts about his own reality, questioning whether he is merely an image created by someone else. Through a blend of 2D drawing and 3D computer animation, the narrative invites viewers to reflect on the nature of identity and the boundaries between creator and creation.
Awards & Recognition:
- 2014 Cannes Directors’ Fortnight
- 2014 Annecy International Animation Film Festival – Cristal for a Short Film
- 2014 Hiroshima International Animation Festival – Special International Jury Prize
- 2014 Indie-Anifest – Excellence Award
- 2014 DOK Leipzig – Honorary Mention
- 2014 Primanima World Festival of First Animations – Best Debut Film Award
- 2014 Japan Media Arts Festival – New Face Award
- 2014 Wissembourg International Film Festival – Jury Special Award
- 2014 Animax Skopje Animation Festival – Silver Brick Award
- 2014 Korea Content Awards – President’s Award
- 2014 Chicago International Film Festival – Gold Plaque for Special Mention
- 2015 Festival Court Métrage Ciné Poème – Laurent Terzieff Prize
- 2015 Lisbon Monstra Festival – Grand Prix MONSTRA RTP Best Short Film
- 2015 Seoul International Cartoon & Animation Festival – Grand Prize, Inspirations of Asia
- 2015 Festival International du Film Court d’Altkirch – Special Jury Prize
- 2015 Animafest Zagreb – Special Award
- 2015 Nashville Film Festival – Honorable Mention
Shackle
(2024)
Runtime: 9 minutes 54 seconds
Creator & Director: Ainslie Henderson
Producer: Will Anderson
Studio: Independent
Description:
Shackle is a captivating stop-motion animated short that delves into the complexities of human nature through the lens of three woodland spirits. These felted creatures navigate the intertwined themes of creativity, possessiveness, and the desire for status, crafting a narrative that is both timeless and deeply resonant. Set against the backdrop of a natural forest environment, the film’s tactile animation and ambient soundscape immerse viewers in a world where the boundaries between art and ego blur. Recognized for its innovative storytelling and visual artistry, Shackle has garnered accolades including Best British Film at the 2022 London International Animation Festival and a Scottish BAFTA nomination in 2023.
The Tornado Outside
Runtime: 8 minutes 15 seconds
Director: Maria Tomazou
Writer: Marius Scholtz
Producer: Solomon Golding
Cinematography: Nina Oyens
Production Design: Gili Ofri
Editor: Jack Cotter
Composer: Ariella Koorlander Ereira
Sound Design: Marios Themistokleous
Studio: National Film and Television School
Language: English
Genre: Stop-Motion Animation, Drama
Description:
The Tornado Outside is a poignant stop-motion animated short that explores the tension between order and chaos through the story of Anna, a woman who has meticulously crafted a perfect life within the confines of her home. Living on the edge of a perpetual tornado, Anna avoids the tumultuous world outside until a gust of wind forces her to confront the very chaos she fears. As she steps beyond her controlled environment, Anna encounters a world filled with unpredictability and discovers the beauty and vitality that lie within the disorder she once shunned.
Khruangbin – May Ninth
Runtime: Approximately 3–4 minutes (exact time not shown)
Directed by: Jeremy Higgins
Written by: Nathaniel Murphy, Jeremy Higgins & [Collaborators – partially visible]
Released on: Vimeo (1 year ago)
Views: 27.9K+
Hosted by: Jeremy Higgins
Description:
Khruangbin – May Ninth is a visually stunning official animated video that brings the band’s signature psychedelic sound to life through bold storytelling and experimental animation. Created by filmmaker and animator Jeremy Higgins, the video is a surreal, cinematic journey that complements the groove-driven track with rich, dreamlike visuals.
Told with poetic timing and visual nuance, this animated short captures the hypnotic rhythm of Khruangbin’s music, exploring memory, motion, and mood in a uniquely animated format that blurs the line between music video and animated storytelling.
Peter Hair
Runtime: 8 minutes 5 seconds
Created & Written by: Uncle Shortbread
Directed by: Arthur Studholme & Cosmo Wellings
Produced by: Molly Turner & Juliet Chant
Executive Producers: Hugo Donkin & James Stevenson Bretton (Blink)
Voice Cast:
- Peter: Thomas Gray
- Mike & Margaret: Cosmo Wellings
Storyboards: Ewa Luczkow, Angus McDonald, Arthur Studholme, Cosmo Wellings
Character Design: Arthur Studholme, Cosmo Wellings
Background Design: Bárbara Oliveira, Camille Perrin, Arthur Studholme, Cosmo Wellings
Animation Team: Jack Clinch, Alina Besanidou, Weiden Wong, Zofia Klamka, Ada Wikdahl, Alma Morris, Angus McDonald, Dan Lennon, Oliver Oakley, Oliver Ley, Rowan Tipper, Ryan Power, Theresa Longvastol, Willow Kirkman
Compositing: Gustaf Lindström
Music: Oscar Rawlinson
Sound Mix: Charlie Pelling
Commissioned by: Adult Swim
Description:
Peter Hair is a surreal and darkly comedic animated short that tells the story of Peter, a single hair living on the head of a balding man named Tim. Feeling unappreciated and disillusioned, Peter decides to resign from his follicular duties, leading to an existential journey that explores themes of identity, purpose, and the absurdity of life. With its unique animation style and poignant narrative, the film offers a fresh perspective on the often-overlooked aspects of existence.
MIMT
Runtime: 3 minutes 58 seconds
Creator & Director: Ted Wiggin
Studio: Independent
Description:
MIMT is an experimental animated short by Ted Wiggin that explores the boundaries of perception and abstraction. Through a series of evolving visual patterns and movements, the film invites viewers to experience a unique interplay of form and rhythm, challenging traditional notions of narrative and structure. This piece exemplifies Wiggin’s innovative approach to animation, offering a mesmerizing journey into the possibilities of the medium.
Snooze Quest
Snooze Quest
Runtime: 9 minutes 23 seconds
Creator & Director: Victoria Vincent (aka vewn)
Additional Animation: Lewis Tarver
Glitch FX: Trevor Mac
Produced by: Adult Swim Smalls
Genre: Animated Short, Surreal Comedy, Mental Health
Description:
Snooze Quest follows PJ, a sleepless insomniac who becomes entangled in a bizarre sniper revenge plot during a restless night. This animated short delves into the chaotic and surreal experiences of PJ, reflecting the challenges of maintaining mental health in a world filled with digital noise and overstimulation. The film combines hyperpop absurdism, DIY aesthetics, and existential themes to create a unique narrative that resonates with contemporary audiences.
Ice Cream Island
(2022)
Runtime: 4 minutes 11 seconds
Artist: Louis Prince
Director & Animator: Joel Plosz
Studio: Independent
Genre: Animated Music Video / Surreal / Experimental
Rating: TV-PG (for mild surreal imagery)
Description:
Ice Cream Island is a dreamlike animated journey that brings the melodic textures of Louis Prince’s music to vibrant life. Directed and animated by Joel Plosz, the short film takes viewers through a surreal world brimming with whimsical creatures, shifting landscapes, and emotional undertones.
Both playful and poetic, the animation serves as a visual sequel to Prince’s earlier video Ode, continuing the exploration of imagination, isolation, and the pursuit of joy. With hand-drawn textures and hypnotic pacing, Ice Cream Island is a beautifully abstract reflection on memory and escape—perfectly synchronized with the ambient jazz-pop soundscape of the track.
Invisible Monsters and Tomato Soup
Runtime: 5 minutes 25 seconds
Directors: Stevie Borrello, Marcie LaCerte & Meghan McDonough
Animation: Marcie LaCerte
Music: Hinako Omori
Sound Design: Sam Beneitone
Studio: The New Yorker
Genre: Animated Documentary
Rating: TV-PG (for surreal imagery and mature themes)
Description:
Invisible Monsters and Tomato Soup is a poignant animated documentary that delves into the subconscious minds of individuals during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through a compilation of 20 dreams from people across five continents, the film explores the universal themes of fear, longing, and resilience. The animation, characterized by bold outlines and a vivid color palette, brings to life the surreal and often bizarre nature of these dreams, offering a unique glimpse into the collective psyche during a time of global uncertainty.
Crush
Crush
Runtime: 3 minutes 6 seconds
Directed by: MegaComputeur (a directing collective)
Studio: Passion Pictures
Genre: Animated Short / Comedy / Romance
Rating: TV-G (suitable for all audiences)
Description:
Crush is a heartwarming animated short that tells the story of two old alpine cable cars who, after years of service, find themselves facing retirement. As they reflect on their shared past and the bond they’ve formed, the film explores themes of companionship, nostalgia, and the passage of time. With its unique premise and charming animation, Crush offers a poignant look at the connections we make and the memories we cherish.
Mandal Takes an L: Middle School
Mandal Takes an L: Middle School
(2025)
Runtime: Approximately 3 minutes
Creator & Director: [Information not available]
Studio: Adult Swim Smalls
Genre: Animated Short, Comedy
Rating: TV-14 (for language and mature themes)
Description:
Mandal Takes an L: Middle School is a comedic animated short that delves into the trials and tribulations of adolescence. Through its unique animation style and sharp humor, the film captures the essence of middle school experiences, highlighting the awkwardness, challenges, and unexpected moments that define this formative period.
Rats
Runtime: 4–5 minutes (estimated)
Creator & Director: [Independent – not listed publicly]
Studio: Independent / Vimeo
Genre: Animated Short, Surreal, Psychological
Rating: TV-14 (for dark themes, mild violence, and surreal imagery)
Description:
Rats is a haunting and metaphorical animated short that explores the chaos of inner turmoil and human instinct through the lens of urban vermin. Told with a gritty visual style and unnerving sound design, the film drags viewers into a crumbling world where rats aren’t just pests—but symbols of survival, fear, and decay.
Visually bold and atmospherically intense, Rats challenges perceptions and blurs the line between reality and hallucination in its brief but unforgettable runtime. It’s a raw and experimental exploration of life at the margins—both human and otherwise.
We Go Back
Runtime: 3 minutes 25 seconds
Artist: Animal Collective
Directors: Winston Hacking & Michael Enzbrunner
Producer: Matthew Hutchinson
Production Company: Pulse Films
Record Label: Domino Records
Genre: Animated Music Video / Experimental / Surreal
Rating: TV-PG (for abstract imagery and thematic complexity)
Description:
We Go Back is a visually arresting animated music video accompanying Animal Collective’s single from their album Time Skiffs. Directed by Winston Hacking and Michael Enzbrunner, the video employs a unique blend of scanned locations, miniature sets, and collage cutouts, embracing a lo-fi 3D aesthetic through photogrammetry. This surreal visual journey mirrors the band’s experimental sound, creating an immersive experience that explores themes of memory and nostalgia.
Awards & Recognition:
- D&AD Awards 2022 – Wood Pencil for Music Videos (Animated)
- Berlin Music Video Awards – Best Experimental
- Ottawa International Animation Festival 2022 – Honourable Mention for Best Canadian Animation
The Great Malaise
(2019)
Runtime: 3 minutes 43 seconds
Directors: Catherine Lepage
Studio: National Film Board of Canada (NFB)
Genre: Animated Short / Mental Health / Social Commentary
Rating: TV-PG (for mature emotional themes)
Description:
The Great Malaise is a powerful and deceptively simple animated short that paints a portrait of someone who seems to “have it all”—but is quietly struggling with anxiety and depression. Directed by Catherine Lepage, the film uses clean illustrations and a disarming internal monologue to expose the hidden realities behind perfectionism, high performance, and mental exhaustion.
Elegant, emotional, and quietly urgent, this short challenges the stigma of mental health with empathy and honesty, offering viewers a rare glimpse into the inner turmoil masked by outward success.
Each Other
(2019)
Runtime: 16 minutes
Director & Producer: Sarah Tabibzadeh
Writer: Nader Rezaeeyan
Executive Producers: Dr. Neda Heidari, Dr. Mohammadreza Khoddami
Editor: Bahram Emrani
Composer: Peyman Yazdanian
Sound Designer: Ensieh Maleki
Studio: Independent
Genre: Animated Short / Surreal / Psychological
Rating: TV-PG (for abstract themes and emotional depth)
Description:
Each Other is a poetic animated short that delves into the complexities of human identity and the layers we carry within ourselves. Set in a world where individuals can remove and cleanse their emotional layers at a facility called the “Layeromat,” the story follows a young man who loses one of his layers. His quest to retrieve it leads him on an introspective journey, exploring themes of self-discovery, loss, and the essence of being. Through a blend of 2D and 3D animation, director Sarah Tabibzadeh crafts a visually arresting narrative that resonates with the universal human experience.
Awards & Recognition:
- Special Prize for Animation Technology – 11th Tehran International Animation Festival (2019)
- Special International Jury Award – 36th Tehran International Short Film Festival (2019)
- Best Short Film Prize – 11th FEMCINE International Film Festival, Chile (2021)
- Official Selections at numerous international festivals, including the 37th Fajr International Film Festival (Iran), 10th ANIMAGE International Animation Festival (Brazil), and 12th SPARK Animation Festival (
Soar
(2015)
Runtime: 6 minutes
Director: Alyce Tzue
Producer: Chris Michael
Composer: Jack Gravina
Studio: The Academy of Art University (MFA Thesis Film)
Genre: Animated Short / Fantasy / Family
Rating: G (suitable for all audiences)
Description:
Soar is a heartwarming animated short that tells the story of a young girl named Mara who discovers a tiny boy pilot falling from the sky. When she realizes his flying machine is broken, she must use her creativity and heart to help him return to the skies.
Beautifully animated and emotionally resonant, Soar celebrates the power of empathy, collaboration, and imagination. The film was created as Alyce Tzue’s MFA thesis project and went on to win over 25 international awards, including a Student Academy Award Gold Medal.
Slovo
(2016)
Runtime: Approximately 4 minutes
Director: [Information not available]
Studio: [Information not available]
Genre: Animated Short / Experimental / Surreal
Rating: TV-PG (for abstract themes and imagery)
Description:
Slovo is an experimental animated short that delves into the abstract and surreal. Through its unique animation style and evocative imagery, the film explores themes of communication, perception, and the human experience.
You can watch Slovo on Vimeo: https://vimeo.com/241197413
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