The journey from creating short films to award-winning features is a testament to the power of storytelling and persistence. Over the past few years, Golden Globe winners for Best Picture have highlighted directors whose cinematic journeys began with humble yet impactful short films. From Chloe Zhao (Nomadland) to Christopher Nolan (Oppenheimer), these filmmakers have proven that the foundation for cinematic greatness often starts small.

If you’re a budding filmmaker or a passionate cinephile, exploring the early works of these directors can provide both inspiration and insight into the craft of filmmaking. Let’s look back at some of the most iconic Best Picture winners of the 2020s and the short films that paved the way for their success.

Chloe Zhao (2021 Best Picture Winner)

Before her poignant, introspective masterpiece Nomadland, Chloe Zhao directed Daughters (2010), a short film that set the tone for her unique filmmaking voice. The story, which centers on a teenager navigating life in a remote Chinese village, showcases her ability to capture raw human emotions against a stark, naturalistic backdrop.

Zhao’s early work demonstrates her talent for blending documentary-style realism with deeply personal narratives—a skill that reached its apex in ***Nomadland***.

Source: *giffonifilmfestival.com*

Jane Campion (2022 Best Picture Winner)

Jane Campion’s career began with short films like Peel (1982), a Cannes-awarded exploration of family dynamics. The sharp, minimalist storytelling and psychological depth of this short film laid the groundwork for her acclaimed feature, The Power of the Dog.

Campion’s mastery of tension and character psychology in Peel can be seen throughout her career, culminating in the layered, slow-burning intensity of her Golden Globe-winning film.

Steven Spielberg (2023 Best Picture Winner)

Even before Steven Spielberg became a household name, his short film Amblin’ (1968) caught the attention of Hollywood. This wordless 26-minute story about two travelers embarking on a journey is considered Spielberg’s first major step toward redefining modern filmmaking.

With The Fabelmans, Spielberg returned to his roots, crafting a semi-autobiographical film that celebrates the power of storytelling and the dreams of young filmmakers like the one
he once was.

Christopher Nolan (2024 Best Picture Winner)

Known for his grand, cerebral narratives, Christopher Nolan’s career began with the short film Doodlebug (1997). This three-minute psychological thriller about a man chasing a smaller version of himself captures Nolan’s early fascination with time, perception, and the human psyche.

The themes and meticulous craftsmanship of Doodlebug echo throughout Nolan’s career, culminating in Oppenheimer, a masterful exploration of science, ambition, and humanity.

Brady Corbet (2025 Best Picture Winner)

Brady Corbet’s journey to The Brutalist began with his 2009 short film Protect You + Me. This intimate exploration of relationships and fragility set the stage for Corbet’s evolution into a filmmaker who boldly tackles complex narratives and visual experimentation.

With The Brutalist, Corbet cemented his place among today’s most innovative directors, proving how short films can be the foundation for cinematic brilliance.

Why Future Filmmakers Should Study Short Films

Short films are more than stepping stones—they’re creative laboratories where filmmakers can experiment, take risks, and develop their storytelling style. By examining the short films of award-winning directors, aspiring filmmakers can gain insights into the techniques, themes, and risks that set these artists apart.

Discover Short Films on FlixSnip

Want to explore the world of short films and discover the next generation of cinematic talent? The FlixSnip app offers a curated collection of international short films across genres, showcasing the power of storytelling in short form. Whether you’re a filmmaker looking for inspiration or a cinephile eager to experience something new, FlixSnip has something for you.

From Short Films to Golden Globes: The Evolution of Award-Winning Directors