5 Original Pixar Short Films, Ranked
Pixar's theatrical short films are a cherished tradition that began in 1984. The studio has created 20 official short films that usually aired before feature films. Recently, Pixar has shifted to releasing varied shorts on Disney+, moving away from the theater model.
The last official short from Pixar was "Bao", shown before "Incredibles 2" in theaters. Fans hope Pixar will return to this theatrical model, although no plans have been announced. Initially, Pixar's shorts focused on exploring the realm of computer-generated animation. Over time, these films evolved into richer narratives, balancing humor and more heartfelt moments.
5. Lou (2017)
"Lou", released alongside "Cars 3", showcases Pixar's playfulness through a mass of shifting objects as its main character. The short features J.J., a bully who transforms emotionally while confronting his past. Initially, J.J. steals toys on the playground, but Lou—residing in the lost and found box—teaches him vital lessons.
The dynamic chase between J.J. and Lou is filled with creativity as Lou employs various objects. This chase deftly shifts from hilarious moments to earnest emotional scenes. Although Lou disappears at the end, his influence has transformed J.J. for the better.
4. Piper (2016)
"Piper", packaged with "Finding Dory", embodies humor and heartfelt themes, encapsulating the Pixar essence within six captivating minutes. This short is funnier than many previous Pixar creations while exploring deeper emotions. It follows a young sandpiper's journey onto the beach as she must conquer her fear of the ocean to survive.
The photorealistic depiction of surroundings might seem documentary-like, yet Piper herself exudes an endearing energy. The adult sandpipers appear naturalistic, creating a visual contrast that highlights Piper's charm and innocence. This endearing character ensures Piper serves as a delightful companion to "Finding Dory".
3. Knick Knack (1989)
"Knick Knack", later paired with "Finding Nemo", presents a snowman trapped in a snow globe, yearning to escape after spotting a beach trinket. With amusing gadgets like a jackhammer or dynamite, his attempts comically backfire. This format echoes classic cartoons like "Tom and Jerry" through Knick's ongoing misadventures.
The short stands out because it feels the first worthy Pixar work designed for theatrical release due to its charm and humor. The humor culminates beautifully in the final minute, as the story contrasts Knick’s highs and lows. Rather than expanding the animation horizon like early Pixar outings, "Knick Knack" masterfully embraces its boundaries—a delightful experience that resonated even 14 years after its initial creation.
2. One Man Band (2006)
"One Man Band", featured with "Cars", is a captivating battle between two musicians vying for a coin from a young girl. Michael Giacchino's score complements this humorous exchange, where chaotic and intricate music reflects their rivalry.
The distinct visual designs of each character, from the elegant string player to the clumsy percussionist, enhance their musical styles. Ironically, their melodic best emerges through teamwork. The only drawback is that the music duel's excitement contrasts with the girl surpassing both musicians with a single violin performance, tossing coins into a fountain.
1. Presto (2008)
"Presto", released with "Wall-E", features a magician, Alec Azam, wrestling with an uncooperative rabbit. The rabbit's demand for a carrot leads to chaos in a labor dispute full of physical comedy. This escalating situation showcases the duo eventually discovering how great they can be together.
Over its five-minute runtime, "Presto" is packed with inventive visual gags. Each joke remains fresh despite sharing similarities, as new and imaginative uses of the magical hat arise. Ultimately, its impressive finale makes "Presto" the ideal introduction for the full-length film that follows.
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