Boulder International Film Festival 2026

Experience six stories from around the world in one unforgettable evening! The annual Boulder International Film Festival returns with a handpicked selection of six short films, each under 20 minutes, offering humor, heart, and fresh perspectives from filmmakers around the globe. MCC Communications Faculty Ewan Magie will once again serve as film critic for the evening, adding insight and conversation along the way. Come see just how much story can fit into a few short minutes! Doors open at 5:30pm. This year's featured selection of short films: ASTRO Netherlands, Short Film, 17 minutes, 2024 (Subtitled) Winner at Aspen Shortsfest Directed by Tim Ewalts Emily just started her job as a telephone psychic at a morally ambiguous spiritual call center, even though she isn't particularly spiritual herself. Her readings follow a carefully scripted, vague formula that keeps callers satisfied without revealing much. As she talks to people from all walks of life, strange moments begin to make her wonder if there's more going on than she's able to see. LITTLE GOODBYES Canada, Short Film, 15 minutes, 2025 (Subtitled) Directed by Justine Martin On a chilly December evening, eight-year-old Florence takes her little sister Simone to the local market to see Santa Claus. After a series of peculiar encounters, Florence does everything she can to keep Simone's Christmas magic alive. THE THREE SISTERS Cyprus/Israel, Short Animation, 15 minutes, 2024 Nominated for a 2026 Oscar Directed by Konstantin Bronzit On a windswept, secluded island, three sisters live in quiet solitude, each tucked away in her own tiny, weather-beaten house. Their peaceful isolation is upended when unexpected events force them to rent out one of their homes. As a stranger arrives, the sisters' carefully guarded secrets begin to unravel, revealing hidden bonds and the magic that lingers in even the loneliest corners of the world. EXTREMIST Latvia, Short Documentary, 17 minutes, 2025 (Subtitled) Executive Producer Ben Stiller 2026 Oscar Shortlist Directed by Aleksandr Molochnikov Extremist follows a modern heroine standing alone against the monstrous dragon of lawless justice. One small act forces Sasha into a heartbreaking choice: seven years in prison -- or betray herself. Told through the eyes of an artist, the story paints the harsh realities of war, prison and judicial Russia in vivid, colorful strokes. It is a true story of love and loyalty - to your partner and to yourself. TRAPPED US, Short Film, 15 minutes, 2024 Best US Short at the Palm Springs Shortsfest Directed by Sam Cutler-Kreutz, David Cutler-Kreutz Janitor Joaquin works late with his son when a night at school turns unpredictable. Facing obstacles and mischief, he must try to navigate the night's surprises, while keeping his job, and his cool, intact. RETIREMENT PLAN Ireland, Short Animation, 7 minutes, 2024 (Subtitled) Nominated for a 2026 Oscar Directed by John Kelly Dissatisfied with life, Ray (voiced by Domhnall Gleeson) dreams of the beauty and joy he'll find when work finally ends.