Short films are brief cinematic works that typically run for less than 40 minutes. They can encompass a variety of genres, including drama, comedy, and animation, and are often used as a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their talent. Festivals like Sundance and Cannes frequently feature short films, providing them with a stage to reach wider audiences. These films can be standalone stories or serve as a precursor to longer features. They often explore themes and ideas in a concise format, making them a unique and impactful medium. Many renowned directors, such as Guillermo del Toro, started their careers creating short films.