Breaking Down The 2026 Best Live-Action Short Oscar Nominees (And Where To See Them)!

With less than a week until the 2026 Academy Awards, expectations are high and discussions are frequent when it comes to predicted winners. However, one particular group of categories is often forgotten: short films. Despite demanding less time out of audiences than feature films, short films are often overlooked by mainstream audiences. These categories highlight emerging filmmakers and actors all across the world. The Best Live-Action Short nominees this year cover diverse themes, from political tension and social commentary to satirical humor and heartwarming connection. These films are being screened from now until the Oscars in select theaters all across the country, and some of them are available on YouTube. Let's take a look!

1. "The Singers" (USA, dir. Sam Davis)

This adaptation of a short story by Ivan Turgenev is set in a pub where a group of lonely men unexpectedly bond through an impromptu singing contest. This film warmly explores community and the power of connecting over music and shared experiences. As you watch, you are able to imagine this unfolding in any humble bar that you could encounter on a road trip through the countryside. (Stream on Netflix)

2. "A Friend of Dorothy" (UK, dir. Lee Knight)

An unlikely friendship emerges when 17-year-old JJ accidentally kicks his football into the garden of an elderly widow named Dorothy. The two connect over their shared interest in the arts; Dorothy is a longtime collector of plays, and JJ wants to be an actor. This film is funny and heartwarming and explores themes of self-discovery and community. (In select theatres)

3. "Butcher’s Stain" (Israel, dir. Meyer Levinson-Blount)

Set in Israel, this film follows Samir, an Arab butcher who is accused of tearing down the posters of Israeli hostages from the wall of the breakroom where he works. Samir then has to fight for his job and innocence despite the lack of proof. The film explores cultural conflict, rising prejudice, and the personal toll of political tension. (In select theatres)

4. "Two People Exchanging Saliva" (France, dir. Alexandre Singh & Natalie Musteata)

This film follows Malaise, a 24-year-old woman working in a department store, who becomes attracted to Angeline, an unhappily married older woman who is a frequent customer. Inspired by the absurdities of the world, this is set in a society where slapping is a currency and kissing is punishable by death. Surreal and provocative, this film will be one you’ll remember. (Stream on YouTube)

5. "Jane Austen’s Period Drama" (USA, dir. Julia Aks & Steve Pinder)

This film is a period drama – literally. Set in 1813 England, Miss Estrogenia Talbot gets her period right when Mr. Dickley gets down on one knee. He mistakes the blood for an injury and panics, making the story unfold into a hilarious satire. It parodies the classic writing voice of Jane Austen, and it is guaranteed to bring a laugh out of you. (Stream on YouTube)

Catch the 98th Academy Awards Sunday, March 15, on ABC and Hulu to see who takes home the Oscar this year!