Don’t Sleep on Short Films: Where Future Stars Are Born

Short films might not always make headlines, but they’re where the magic happens for some of Hollywood’s biggest stars before they hit the big time. If you’re still thinking these tiny flicks are just a stepping stone, think again—they’re often where actors get their real break. Forget the blockbusters; it’s in the low-budget, tightly packed shorts where fresh faces and iconic careers begin. Don't believe it? Let’s take a look at some of the standout stars who got their start in short films and prove why you should never overlook them.

Take Bottle Rocket—Wes Anderson’s short film before he was allowed to start making movies that look like pastel fever dreams. This 1994 gem introduced us to Owen and Luke Wilson, who were as unknown as a new Tim Tam flavour. But in just a few minutes of footage, you could see the unmistakable vibe that would make them big players in Hollywood. Before their names became synonymous with "quirky", they were here, just two brothers giving it a go. And suddenly, you realise: *this* is the kind of stuff that gets actors noticed. Not a big-budget blockbuster, but a low-fi, tight-as-a-drum short film.

Now, let’s talk about Rachael Sennott—because she’s the real deal. You probably know her from Shiva Baby or Bodies, Bodies, Bodies (and if you don’t, *get on it*). According to director Emma Seligman, when they first met Rachael was carrying everywhere a planner filled with goals—monthly, yearly, even three-year goals, printed out. Rachael Sennott’s journey to the big screen began in the world of student filmmaking, where she quickly became known for her sharp wit and impeccable comedic timing. One of her early films available online is the 2018 short version of Shiva Baby.

So, what does this all mean for the rest of us? Short films are a solid proving ground for anyone who’s got the guts and the talent to show up and give it a go. They’re where fresh faces emerge, where experienced actors test out new personas, and where big things happen—sometimes when you least expect it. So, the next time you're sitting at a festival or scrolling through a streaming service and you see a short film with a cast of names you don’t recognise, don’t just scroll past. That could be the next *big* thing, or at the very least, a very nice little introduction to a career you’ll be following for years to come.

If you’re lucky, you might just see the next Owen Wilson.