Whether they’re unlucky in love, have lost something precious to them (like a guitar, a bicycle, or something far more intimate), or have given up on their childhood dreams, the protagonists of the nine extraordinary short films gathered here have been driven to desperation. Will they be able to pull themselves back from the brink?


The Bicycle Thief
Dir. Zach Strum

A heartbroken cyclist rides across the US on a bike he stole from his ex.


Getar Hero
Dir. Teddy Stern 

In the neon streets of Mumbai, a down-on-his-luck cowboy has one night to recover his stolen guitar or lose everything he’s playing for.


Vultures
Dir. Dian Weys

In the volatile moments after a car crash, before the authorities arrive, a hot-headed yet desperate South African tow truck driver fiercely protects his tow. But the situation quickly spirals out of his control.


DISC
Dir. Blake Winston Rice

The story of a hookup gone too far up.


Pale Sun
Dir. Adrian Moyse Dullin and Jawahine Zentar

On a French beach in summer, 12-year-old Abel is ashamed of his father’s body, marked by cancer.


Peace Corps
Dir. Jessica Li

After leaving the Peace Corps earlier than expected, a young woman reluctantly returns to her hometown and must readjust back to life there.


Ruedas
Dir. E.T. Vazquez

After a brutal assault, Ernesto, an elderly ice cream vendor, is followed by a trickster spirit through a surreal Los Angeles where grief, magic, and resilience intertwine.


The Bicycle Thief 2
Dir. Zach Strum

A heartbroken cyclist tries to reconnect with his ex, from whom he stole a bike.


Paper Trail
Dir. Don Hertzfeldt

Legendary animator Don Hertzfeldt’s new short film Paper Trail is a 14-minute high-speed study of someone's life, seen only through pieces of paper. New animation techniques were developed to create the film's unique look and pace. 


Followed by a discussion with Peace Corps director Jessica Li, cinematographer Mick Bongiovi, and producer David Gage, Ruedas director E.T. Vasquez, and Getar Hero co-writer/producer Sneha Mehta and co-writer/director Teddy Stern!