A24 A-to-Z: #61. "The Vanishing of Sidney Hall" (2018)

Scene from The Vanishing of Sidney Hall

In case you didn't know, A24 is one of the great purveyors of modern cinema. Since 2013, the studio has found a way to innovate independent cinema by turning each release into an event. As a result, A24 A-to-Z will be an ongoing series that looks at every release from the studio by analyzing its production history, release, criticisms, and any awards attention that it might've received. Join me on a quest to explore the modern heroes of cinema by exploring every hit and miss that comes with that magnificent logo. They may not all be great, but they more than make A24 what it is and what it will hopefully continue to be for years to come.

A Closer Look at the Best Live Action Short Nominees

*NOTE: Due to some unforeseen problems, I am unable to purchase the Animation portion of this program. I am working on solving this and will hope to have a piece on it soon.

One of my favorite portions of the Oscars is seeing the films that are practically unknown to everyone. The ones where during the ceremony an image appears for a Best Live Action Short that makes you wish that you saw it. As usual, Shorts HD has made it easier than ever to access these titles in a fancy package featuring interviews with established filmmakers about the significance of the medium. At only $7.99 each, the annual investment is well worth the price to see one of the few categories that are still unbiased to popular opinions and have an even playing field from every participating country.

A Look at the Best Live Action Short Nominees

As I have shared in the past, there is a way to see the Best Live Action Short nominees before Sunday, and you don't have to leave your home to do it. While conflict has come up with being able to find a package of the Best Animated Shorts, I have watched all of the Best Live Action nominees and we have quite a batch of interesting selections. While I am not an expert at predicting the big winner, I do enjoy getting a chance to watch each of these and at least knowing that there is something interesting in the outer categories. After the jump, I will give a brief review of each as well as my thoughts on who should win.