7 Short Films Made into Successful Feature-Length Films

Short films also frequently provide the artistic building blocks for feature-length films that entertain audiences worldwide. New to old, below are seven of the best films to have successfully transitioned from short films made filmmaking to cinematic success.

These movies prove that short-form filmmaking can result in innovative and memorable film-watching experiences. All of these pioneering efforts left a lasting impression on audiences worldwide.

7 Short Films Made into Big Films:

1. Short Term 12 (2013)

Destin Daniel Cretton’s intense emotional short film Short Term 12 was later developed into a feature in 2013. Starring Brie Larson, the film is about a group foster home and addresses themes of trauma and hope. The film can be viewed on Hulu.

2. Whiplash (2014)

Damien Chazelle’s Whiplash, begun as a suspenseful short film, evolved into an Oscar-winning feature in 2014. J.K. Simmons and Miles Teller are featured in the dark drama that depicts the vicious pursuit of musical genius. It is available to stream on Amazon Prime Video.

3. The Babadook (2014)

Jennifer Kent expanded her 2005 short film Monster into the critically acclaimed horror feature The Babadook in 2014. The psychological depth and comedic tone of the film have established it as a contemporary horror classic. It can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video.

4. Pixels (2015)

Patrick Jean’s groundbreaking short film Pixels spawned a feature film remake in 2015 featuring Adam Sandler. This science fiction comedy is a mix of nostalgia and action, depicting retro arcade characters invading the world. It is available to rent or purchase on Google Play Movies.

5. Lights Out (2016)

David F. Sandberg’s viral Lights Out was stretched into a feature horror movie in 2016. Building on its creepy premise, the movie traces the source of its paranormal power. It can be streamed on Amazon Prime Video.

6. Andhadhun (2018)

Based on the French short film L’Accordeur (The Piano Tuner), Andhadhun was released in India in 2018. Directed by Sriram Raghavan and starring Ayushmann Khurrana as the lead, this action-packed Bollywood thriller suspense film is available to stream on Netflix.

7. Yes, God, Yes (2019)

Karen Maine’s Yes, God, Yes evolved from a realistic short to an offbeat feature-length comedy in 2019. This new story featuring Natalia Dyer is now available on Netflix.

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