6 - My Favorite Short Films

This session highlights may favorite short films. Of course, I always like to add variety. Scroll down to read info on all the films for the session and click on the link to view. Some notes are after the link and are best read after viewing that short film.

Lifted - 5minutes long - American
Let's journey back to your childhood once more, beginning with an animated classic. This particular gem hails from the illustrious studio Pixar, a proud subsidiary of Disney, renowned as the foremost pioneer in computer-generated animation. When faced with the task of selecting a cartoon for our viewing pleasure, it's impossible to overlook the sheer brilliance of PIXAR. You might recall the enchanting Pixar avian adventure from our initial session. In this film, pay close attention to the meticulous craftsmanship that permeates every aspect, from the visuals to the narrative – it's truly top-tier. Observe how this seemingly simple cartoon has the remarkable ability to evoke a myriad of emotions, all without the need for spoken words.

https://youtu.be/LVLoc6FrLi0?si=53b3x0ku1FDMFkNs

4K Youtube Videos - International
In a previous session, I made an effort to introduce everyone to the world of TED Talks. Today, I'd like to draw your attention to the plethora of high-definition films available on YouTube, the renowned video-centric website. When you search for '4K' on YouTube, you'll discover a wealth of incredibly high-definition films that are nothing short of breathtaking. These videos are often complemented by captivating music and are thoughtfully crafted to provide a sense of relaxation. Many individuals now own these state-of-the-art smart TVs capable of rendering content in stunning 4K resolution. Most smart TVs can easily access and display YouTube videos. But even if you have a standard HD TV or are watching on your computer, you can still enjoy these visually exquisite films.

I have compiled several links from various 4K videos to provide examples of the types of 4K videos available.

Many 4K videos show stunning 4K video of various countries around the world. Here are links to ones for England and Norway.

https://youtu.be/wVaYROTFDyg?si=LD9Sqj17G_tR5dCc

https://youtu.be/wVaYROTFDyg?si=LD9Sqj17G_tR5dCc

Check out this 4K ocean video:

https://youtu.be/Fr9F2nds_qM?si=Cr8HD41K8CrhMB5A

I love this super slow motion video in 4K video:

https://youtu.be/A2eNVDGesYY?si=g8oCbDqJwm6jJvxq

If you don't have a fireplace in your home during the holiday season, no worries with this 4K video:

https://youtu.be/iGwawktAMRg?si=y_CvT2u4AqopqUng

There are a whole series of 4K videos where the producer walks and films the streets of famous world cities. Check out this one of Paris. It is sure to bring back some memories if you have ever been to Paris.

https://youtu.be/n2zNeWk2oak?si=462OiMd6g_8psW76

The Red Balloon - 34 Minutes - French
Back in 1956, this film clinched the coveted Oscar for short films, and it has since become one of the most cherished tales for children, achieving iconic status in the world of short films. Its enchanting narrative unfolds on the charming streets of Paris, where a young boy en route to school stumbles upon a red balloon ensnared on a lamppost. Little does he know that this balloon possesses magical qualities. The film takes us on a whirlwind of adventures as we follow the boy and his extraordinary Red Balloon.If you've ever had the pleasure of visiting Paris, you'll be entranced by the nostalgic allure of the 1950s Parisian street scenes in the movie. Much of the filming transpired in the Montmartre district of Paris, a place I had the opportunity to stay in a couple of years ago. The stark contrast between the vibrant red balloon and the otherwise drab, gray cityscape is truly striking. It's a masterpiece in its simplicity, featuring just two real characters - the young boy and the red balloon. This film is a delightful gem not only intended for children but profoundly about the essence of childhood itself. The young boy's authenticity is truly heartwarming.

Despite being a French production, the film doesn't rely on spoken dialogue. Instead, it communicates its beauty through visuals and emotions. It's simply a breathtaking and profoundly beautiful cinematic creation.

Note: In the actual Quest For Learning presentation, I did show an abridged version of the film. The link below is the full length 34 minute version of the short film.

https://youtu.be/VexKSRKoWQY?si=2Hie8_9Fitxu3mX9

What Does Virgin Mean - 3 Minutes - British
For every film we showcase, it's important that I secure the appropriate rights to present them to our non-paying audience. When it comes to commercials or music videos, creators are generally quite receptive to having their work shared. However, for certain films, it may be necessary for me to reach out to the producer and request formal permission. I've found that when I explain the context, emphasizing that the film will be presented to a senior audience free of charge, most producers readily grant permission. In the case of our next film, I personally reached out to the producer. Not only did he grant me the necessary permission, but we also engaged in a pleasant email exchange about short films and his own creative endeavors. During our correspondence, we delved into both the next film and our most last one, which he also had a hand in producing. So, without further ado, let's delve into our next to last film.Similar to certain British films, this particular production is somewhat daring in its approach, yet it stands as an absolute cinematic treasure. In this film, a parent is confronted with the challenge of explaining an exceptionally delicate subject. As parents, you may have found yourselves navigating similar conversations in the past.

https://youtu.be/f15shbsOT8Y?si=4r5z5Xc8LeE3HzLC

Love at First Sight – 13 minutes long - British
While seeking permission to screen the last film, the producer suggested that I watch one of his more recent creations. Nevertheless, he expressed uncertainty about its suitability for our audience and left the judgment to me. The film in question revolves around a British retirement community, offering a blend of humor, enchanting characters, and stunning cinematography. It stands among my top 5 favorite short films of all time. However, it delves into a more profound and universal issue faced by seniors, touching on the realities of our aging population. I've kept this short film in my back pocket for years, hesitating to showcase it due to concerns about its potentially sensitive nature for some seniors. My intention was always to avoid causing any distress to the audience.Finally, I decided to sit down with a senior friend of mine who was confronting the same issue and screened the film for them. I asked for their opinion: Should I present this film?  They emphatically responded, "Absolutely!" It addresses a challenging subject for our age group, but it does so in an extraordinarily beautiful manner. I'm a firm believer in maintaining a positive outlook, and I ask you to keep that in mind as you experience this remarkable film. If you're a fan of British television, you might even recognize a few of the actors, especially John Hurt, who takes the lead role. The plot carries a subtle twist, so I encourage you to pay close attention during the final 3-4 minutes of the film.

https://youtu.be/v0weamgxy24?si=WTqVJ-0hGj84lmsP

What an exquisite film. Each day, the gentleman rediscovers his love for his wife. The film confronts a formidable issue but does so with the utmost grace and beauty.

 I hope you enjoy these short films

Dale Johnson
dalejohnson99@gmail.com
717-666-1130 (h)
443-841-4372 (c)

 "Live life to the fullest, and focus on the positive."Read more