Oscar-Nominated Shorts Screening at Milwaukee Film Festival

Milwaukee Film brings back annual showcase of Academy Award-nominated short films

Published on Feb. 18, 2026

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The Milwaukee Film Festival is hosting a special screening of all the Oscar-nominated short films in the categories of animation, live-action, and documentary. The program features acclaimed actors like Stephen Fry, Miriam Margolyes, and Domhnall Gleeson, and includes a mix of cutting-edge animation, shocking true stories, and a humorous take on Jane Austen's period dramas. This is a rare opportunity for movie lovers to see the Oscar-nominated shorts on the big screen outside of film festivals.

Why it matters

The Oscar-nominated short film programs are always a highlight of the Milwaukee Film Festival, giving local audiences a chance to see some of the most innovative and acclaimed short films from around the world before the Academy Awards ceremony. These programs often feature future Oscar winners and showcase diverse voices and perspectives that don't always get mainstream attention.

The details

The Oscar-nominated short film programs will be shown at the Oriental Theater in Milwaukee this weekend. The three programs - Animation, Live-Action, and Documentary - will each be screened separately, allowing film fans to pick and choose which categories they want to see. In addition to the star power of actors like Stephen Fry and Domhnall Gleeson, the programs also include a hilarious take on Jane Austen period dramas and shocking true stories from around the globe.

  • The Oscar-nominated short film programs will be shown at the Oriental Theater in Milwaukee this weekend.

The players

Milwaukee Film

A non-profit organization that operates the annual Milwaukee Film Festival, showcasing independent, international, and documentary cinema.

Oriental Theater

A historic movie palace in Milwaukee that serves as a venue for the Milwaukee Film Festival and other special film screenings.

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What they’re saying

“Seeing a program of short films on the big screen is a very rare occurrence. Other than festivals, this is a great way to check so many off of your list.”

— Christopher Pollard, Milwaukee Film and the Movie Podcast Buds (WISN.com)

What’s next

The Oscar-nominated short film programs will continue to be shown at the Oriental Theater throughout the weekend.

The takeaway

The Milwaukee Film Festival's annual showcase of Oscar-nominated short films provides a unique opportunity for local movie lovers to see some of the most innovative and acclaimed short-form storytelling on the big screen before the Academy Awards ceremony.