The Best Short Films in 2025 – According to UK Film Review Critics

The short film format is the crucible of cinematic genius. It demands not only a singular vision but a ruthless efficiency of storytelling. For a film to earn a five-star rating from UK Film Review is to declare it a masterpiece—a work of art that is as flawless as it is unforgettable. This year, the quality of submissions has been staggering, yielding a definitive list of 20 short films that represent the absolute pinnacle of global and independent filmmaking.