Celebrate the New Year with Unique Short Films Featuring Horses and One-Shot Selection

Celebrate the New Year with Unique Short Films

As we usher in the Year of the Horse, the Brilliance Short Short Theater Online (BSSTO) has launched an exciting lineup of short films centered around the equine theme and one-shot selections. Managed by Visual Voice Corporation, this online theater aims to provide a fresh cinematic experience as we enter 2026.

A Showcase of Diverse Short Films

The selection features a variety of international short films, including two that are inspired by the motif of the horse.

- The Last Cowboy in Salford (サルフォードのカウボーイ)

Directed by Jakob Lancaster, this darkly humorous neo-Western portrays the struggles of a 17-year-old Jewish cowboy in modern-day Manchester, England. As he navigates the challenges of identity and belonging, the film raises questions about social constraints and personal aspirations, all set against a backdrop of a dystopian landscape where the cowboy’s existence seems out of place.

- A Beautiful Excuse For A Deadly Sin (美しき願い、罪の名の下に)

This touching and humorous tale from Bahrain, directed by Hashim Sharaf, follows a man's desperate attempts to climb a narrow staircase to be with his beloved horse. Each step he takes symbolizes a small rebellion against societal pressures, highlighting the theme of love and dedication that transcends barriers.

One-Shot Selections

In addition to horse-themed stories, the one-shot selections provide an intriguing viewing experience.

- Still Is (父ありき)

This Japanese short directed by Toshiyuki Ichihara unveils the subtle nuances of a family's morning routine captured in a continuous shot. As viewers become engrossed in the simple imagery, underlying secrets of the family gradually come to light, raising poignant questions about perception and reality.

- The Robbery (強盗)

Alfonso Díaz’s Spanish film combines comedy and drama, revolving around a robbery at a bar where an unexpected visitor joins the chaos, complicating the already tense situation. This dark comedy has captivated audiences at over 150 film festivals worldwide, marking its place as a must-see.

- Cold Feet (マリッジ・ブルー)

Directed by Isla Macleod from New Zealand, this short gem focuses on a bride’s moment of hesitation just before her wedding. In a mere 6 minutes, the film dives deep into her inner turmoil as she confronts unvoiced emotions and uncertainty in a quiet yet gripping manner.

This year's collection is filled with a wealth of stories that broaden our perspectives and spark deeper dialogues.

About BSSTO

BSSTO is an online theater that streams carefully selected short films every Wednesday, curated by the International Short Film Festival and Asia. Continuing the legacy of the Brilliance Short Short Theater, which operated from February 2008 to December 2017 in Yokohama, BSSTO started in February 2018 to connect audiences with these brief yet impactful cinematic experiences. By registering for free, audiences can enjoy around 12 films at any time, fostering an appreciation for kindness, resilience, and the beauty of life through the art of short cinema.

As we embark on 2026, let's celebrate the New Year with these exceptional films that remind us of the richness of human experiences and the depth of storytelling.