Award-Winning Short Films You Can Watch in Under 10 Minutes
We believe in the power of a narrative that captivates you from the very first frame and stays with you long after the credits roll. A great story doesn’t need hours to leave a lasting impression; sometimes, a few perfectly crafted minutes are all it takes to make you think, laugh, or feel deeply. The short film is a canvas where filmmakers paint vivid emotions and explore profound ideas with precision and flair.
This is the essence of the incredible, award-winning short films we are proud to feature on our platform—curating select narratives that stand out for their originality, emotional depth, and the power to leave a lasting impact. For those who appreciate the fine art of storytelling but find themselves short on time, we have curated a list of exceptional 10 minute films that you can enjoy right now ‘for free’ on our YouTube channel.
Each film is a testament to the fact that originality and excellence can be delivered in a compact, impactful format.
‘Uss Din’ – A Glimpse into the Cost of Conflict
Directed by the perceptive Vikram Gupta, ‘Uss Din’ is a powerful and unsettling look at how societal discord trickles down to poison the innocence of youth. This poignant Hindi short film features a talented cast including Rajkummar Rao, Jamie Lever, and Manjari Makijany, who bring a stark reality to the unfolding drama.
The film centers on a simple game of bat and ball played by children from two neighbouring families. This small patch of joy becomes the battleground for a larger, escalating conflict between the adults. As the hostility festers, the children’s determination to keep their game alive serves as a beacon of hope against the encroaching darkness.
The film masterfully builds tension, contrasting the carefree spirit of childhood with the bitter animosity of their elders. It’s a tragic and thought-provoking narrative that questions the price of our prejudices, reminding us that in the end, societal compunctions often claim the most innocent of victims.
‘The Promise’ – An Enduring Echo of Love
From the master storyteller Tigmanshu Dhulia, ‘The Promise’ is a timeless tale of love, fate, and the bonds that withstand the passage of time. The film introduces us to Chitra, a newcomer in Delhi, and George, a bartender, who forge an unexpected and profound connection. As they share glimpses of their pasts, their bond deepens, but destiny intervenes when George has to leave. In a selfless act of love, Chitra steps away, and they seal their farewell with a promise: to meet at the same place in 20 years.
Two decades later, George returns, his heart heavy with memories and anticipation. What he discovers is a testament to the enduring power of their connection. ‘The Promise’ is more than a story; it’s an emotional journey that lingers, reminding us that true love is a promise that time cannot break.
With its beautiful cinematography and soul-stirring performances, the film feels grand in its emotional scope, possessing the quality and craft that one often associates with award winning short films.
‘Aloo Bhujia’ – The Unspoken Taste of a Fractured Bond
In ‘Aloo Bhujia‘, director Lakshmi R Iyer serves up a quietly devastating story about the fragile relationship between a mother and son. Padma Damodaran and Rannvijay Singha are joined by the young Arnav Maggo, in this short film which explores the complexities of modern relationships with incredible nuance. Starting with loud arguments the film ends with the heavy weight of what is left unsaid. This is one of those Indian short films that stays with you, a moving portrait of how communication breakdowns can create chasms within a family, and the faint hope of bridging them.
‘Nawab’ – A Heartwarming Tale of Unlikely Friendship
Directed with a delicate touch by Mansi Jain, ‘Nawab’ is a heartwarming film that explores the profound and healing power of an animal’s companionship. The story revolves around a man, played with endearing vulnerability by Aparshakti Khurana, who finds solace and an unlikely confidant in a dog during a difficult period in his life. The film is a beautiful testament to the idea that love and comfort can come from the most unexpected of places.
Aparshakti Khurana and Mallika Dua lead the cast in this charming narrative that beautifully illustrates how animals can become our most loyal and non-judgmental companions.
‘Camouflage’ – A Battle of Ideologies
Aman Dhaiya’s ‘Camouflage’ is a gripping and intellectually charged film that stages a powerful clash between integrity, duty, and personal values. The entire narrative unfolds through a single, intense conversation between two Indian Army officers who find themselves on opposite sides of the ideological spectrum when it comes to war and peace. It’s a masterclass in dialogue-driven select storytelling, where the battlefield is not of mud and bullets, but of deeply held beliefs.
Featuring two stalwarts of the craft, Purab Kohli and Sumeet Vyas, the film is an electrifying watch.
Also Read: 10 Select Short Films to Watch During Your Free Time
Conclusion: A Universe of Stories Awaits
The films highlighted here are merely a glimpse into the vast and varied universe of cinematic gems we host. Our commitment at Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts is to continue being the ultimate destination for powerful storytelling.
Our collection of award winning Indian short films spans multiple genres, including compelling dramas, and suspenseful thrillers.
We invite you to dive into our collection on the Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts YouTube channel. Discover a world where stories are told with passion, originality, and a deep respect for the art of filmmaking. Whether you have ten minutes or half an hour, a select story is always waiting for you.
