From the Tribeca Film Festival, four more short films that caught my attention.
There is nothing with a film that tugs at the heartstrings. Rise falls into that category. Jessica J. Rowlands delivers an uplifting story on the ultimate underdog. A n orphaned child living in the garbage dump of Zimbabwe becomes the student of a one-time boxing championing. The story isn’t just about the fight, but self-worth.

Snow Bear comes down to what would one of the most ferocious creatures do for companionship in a harsh climate. Director Aaron Blaise brings polar bear cuteness to the screen for 11 minutes in an animated short about friendship and ice.
Linie 12 from directors Sarah Schulz and Christopher Schmier carries an animated story based on the reliable reputation of German train travel even in the face of danger. Can chaos and managed orchestration come together to save the day?

From Brazil, Pavilhao is hypnotic energy on the expression, unity and power of Samba in communities. Victoria Fiore’s journey is about getting pulled into the rhythm and sounds as form of liberation from the world.
Screened online during the 2025 Tribeca Film Festival