Short & Brilliant: 10 Great Movies You Can Watch in Under 90 Minutes
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| A collage featuring stills from various movies to watch under 90 minutes. |
In a world filled with epic blockbusters and sprawling franchises, sometimes the best movies are the ones that don’t overstay their welcome. Short films — those that clock in at under 90 minutes — have a unique way of packing in emotional depth, creativity, and storytelling innovation in a time frame that’s perfect for when you’re short on time but still craving a quality movie experience.
Whether you're on a tight schedule or just in the mood for a quick yet satisfying cinematic journey, we've got you covered. Here are 10 brilliant films you can watch in under 90 minutes, each offering a complete and engaging story without the need for a multi-hour commitment.
1. My Life as a Zucchini (2016)
Runtime: 66 minutes
Genre: Animation, Drama
This heartwarming stop-motion film follows a young boy named Zucchini, who ends up in an orphanage after the death of his mother. The film is a beautiful exploration of childhood resilience, trauma, and the power of friendship. It's not just a film for kids; it’s a touching narrative that resonates with adults too.
2. The Blair Witch Project (1999)
Runtime: 81 minutes
Genre: Horror, Mystery
This groundbreaking found footage horror film is a chilling tale of three filmmakers who disappear in the woods while investigating a local legend. The film’s atmospheric tension and minimalist storytelling still hold up as one of the most influential horror films of the 90s.
3. Frances Ha (2012)
Runtime: 86 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Drama
This quirky indie comedy follows Frances Halladay, an aspiring dancer in New York, as she struggles to find her place in the world. It’s a heartfelt, authentic story about friendship, dreams, and growing up. With sharp wit and excellent performances, Frances Ha is a short but sweet look at life in transition.
4. Before Sunset (2004)
Runtime: 80 minutes
Genre: Romance, Drama
This romantic drama, the second installment in Richard Linklater’s trilogy, follows Jesse and Celine as they reconnect in Paris after nine years. Told in real time, Before Sunset is a stunning exploration of love, missed opportunities, and what could have been. It’s brief yet filled with deep emotional resonance.
5. Shiva Baby (2020)
Runtime: 77 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Thriller
Set entirely during a Jewish funeral service, this dark comedy focuses on a college student, Danielle, who runs into her sugar daddy, ex-girlfriend, and family at the shiva. Tense, awkward, and hilarious, Shiva Baby is a masterclass in uncomfortable humor.
6. Primer (2004)
Runtime: 77 minutes
Genre: Sci-Fi, Thriller
Filmed on a microbudget, this intricate time-travel thriller explores the complexities and consequences of invention. While challenging to follow, Primer rewards viewers with a unique take on the genre and remains one of the most puzzling, cerebral sci-fi films ever made.
7. The Red Turtle (2016)
Runtime: 80 minutes
Genre: Animation, Fantasy
This beautifully animated, dialogue-free film from Studio Ghibli tells the story of a man stranded on an island and his mysterious encounter with a red turtle. The visual storytelling and poignant themes make it a perfect film to watch when you’re looking for a meditative and immersive experience.
8. Victoria (2015)
Runtime: 88 minutes
Genre: Crime, Drama, Thriller
This intense thriller is filmed in one continuous take, following a young Spanish woman who gets swept up in a high-stakes crime spree over the course of one night in Berlin. With stunning performances and real-time pacing, Victoria offers a gripping narrative with a uniquely immersive cinematic style.
9. Hunt for the Wilderpeople (2016)
Runtime: 88 minutes
Genre: Comedy, Adventure
A delightful and humorous adventure, this New Zealand film follows a rebellious boy and his grumpy foster father as they go on the run in the wild. It’s heartwarming, funny, and a perfect blend of adventure and humor.
10. Blue Jay (2016)
Runtime: 80 minutes
Genre: Romance, Drama
Shot in black and white, this intimate drama follows two former high school sweethearts who reconnect and spend the day reliving memories of their past. The raw emotion and subtle performances make Blue Jay an unforgettable experience.
Final Thoughts
Short movies are often overlooked, but they prove that brevity can be just as impactful as length. If you're pressed for time but still craving a cinematic experience, these 10 films provide rich storytelling in under 90 minutes. Give them a try, and you'll be pleasantly surprised by the depth and creativity these short films offer.
What’s your favorite short movie? Drop a comment below and let us know!
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