1. Two Strangers Who Meet Five Times: overcoming prejudice
2. Samaritan: dealing with intolerance
3. Portrait: abuse of power in the photography world
4. Denzel: living with a disability
5. Quiet Carriage: standing up for yourself
6. Shadow Boxer: mental health in sports
7. Thank You So Much: actions speak louder than claps
There’s something about watching an underdog face seemingly insurmountable obstacles, and come out on top, that gets our hearts racing and our spirits soaring. Maybe it’s the universal human desire to root for the little one, or maybe it’s just the thrill of seeing justice served.
Whatever the reason, short films have a knack for telling underdog stories that leave us feeling inspired and empowered. They show us that no matter who we are or where we come from, we all have the potential to overcome our challenges and achieve greatness.
So, with no further ado, here are 7 underdog stories in short films:
1. Two Strangers Who Meet Five Times: overcoming prejudice
Our two protagonists are on seemingly intertwined journeys that result in very different outcomes, asking big questions about what unites, rather than divides us.
Watch our interview with director Marcus Markou →
2. Samaritan: dealing with intolerance
A Muslim doctor, refuged from civilisation in the woods, stumbles upon an unconscious, recently kidnapped, far-right politician. Directed by Dustin Curtis Murphy.
3. Portrait: abuse of power in the photography world
Based on interviews conducted with 21 models about their own experiences, this is the story of a young woman who sets up a shoot with a photographer notorious for his coercion tactics. Directed by Keir Siewert.
4. Denzel: living with a disability
A young man uses an alter ego to navigate through his struggles with social life. A heartwarming film about a journey to self-acceptance.
Watch our interview with director Michael Gamarano Singleton →
5. Quiet Carriage: standing up for yourself
Starring Amit Shah and Emma Francesca Sidi, this exceptional short is about a commuter debating whether to stop an intruder or live a lifetime of regrets.
Watch our interview with director Ben S. Hyland →
6. Shadow Boxer: mental health in sports
WBF super middleweight fight, round 9. Mason is facing off against an old stable mate, while his father coaches from the opposing corner. And he is down on points. Now he’s fighting for his pride. Directed by Ross McGowan, starring Chris Evangelou and James Cosmo.
Bonus – Thank You So Much: actions speak louder than claps
During the UK’s Thursday evening clap for health care workers, over-virtuous neighbours are challenged by the nurse next door. Directed by Tomasz Frymorgen.
These stories of perseverance and triumph are a reminder that success is not just about raw talent or resources. It’s about courage and determination to keep pushing forward in the face of adversity.
So the next time you’re feeling down or discouraged, turn to a short film that will lift you up and give you the strength to keep fighting. After all, who knows? Maybe you’ll be the hero of your own underdog story someday.
This selection was screened at Klipist’s “Night of the Underdogs” event on 12 May 2023, in partnership with ArtHouse Crouch End.
