For many years we have enjoyed the Oscar nominated short subject live action and the animated films. They are clever, fun and often have a rewarding message. This year there were a few especially rewarding ones and a couple that weren't. One from Iran was lament about the fact that women and girls are expected to wear a covering or Hijab ("Our Uniform"). The short began with a disclaimer that it wasn't condemning Iranian society for this. Then it proceeded to complain at length about it. We certainly enjoy our freedom of dress in the U. S., but we need to abstain from criticizing the cultural habits of others. It is suggested that women in Iran all hate the clothing they are expected to wear. If you've been there, you know this isn't true. For people who think Iran is repressive, they have forgotten that the Taliban has taken over Afghanistan. There are those in high places that want the U. S. to attack Iran. If you watch cable news you will see these implied suggestions.
Another short, "Letter to a Pig", is a political commentary about the Holocaust. The timing of this animated short could not have been worse considering the slaughter that is happening in Gaza. It was animated in France and the story was developed in Israel with Hebrew dialog.
Yet another short animated film is "Wild Summon" that is a warning about sometimes devastating life cycle of a salmon. This is mostly live action scenes of beautiful rivers and streams with the injection of humanoid skin divers replacing the salmon. It is beautifully done, but not very clever and about as subtle as a sledge hammer. I think just about everyone in this country knows about the peril that salmon are facing now with pollution, dams, and over-fishing and it's not an understated problem. A little surprise was that it was narrated by Marianne Faithful.
The rest of the Oscar nominated shorts are simply delightful and inspiring - and worth the price of admission. We especially enjoyed "99 Senses". You will too.
