Tibbits Film Series is set to host an exclusive screening of the 2026 Academy Award-nominated animated and live-action short films on Saturday, March 7, at the historic Tibbits Opera House. Tibbits is thrilled to bring this showcase to the Coldwater community and offer a glimpse at these critically acclaimed short films.

Film enthusiasts and animation lovers can explore the magic of storytelling with the 2026 lineup. From heartwarming tales to thought-provoking narratives, these animated and live-action shorts showcase the diversity and ingenuity within the genre. The Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences defines short films as those under 40 minutes (including credits). Viewers will find themselves captivated by the unique and powerful stories on display.

The full list of 2026 nominees was released on January 22, and is as follows:

LIVE ACTION SHORT FILMS 

  • “Butcher’s Stain” Meyer Levinson-Blount and Oron Caspi

  • “A Friend of Dorothy” Lee Knight and James Dean

  • “Jane Austen’s Period Drama” Julia Aks and Steve Pinder 

  • “The Singers” Sam A. Davis and Jack Piatt

  • “Two People Exchanging Saliva” Alexandre Singh and Natalie Musteata

ANIMATED SHORT FILMS 

  • “Butterfly” Florence Miailhe and Ron Dyens

  • “Forevergreen” Nathan Engelhardt and Jeremy Spears 

  • “The Girl Who Cried Pearls” Chris Lavis and Maciek Szczerbowski

  • “Retirement Plan” John Kelly and Andrew Freedman  

  • “The Three Sisters” Konstantin Bronzit 

The animated segment will start at 2 pm, showing each nominated short. Following a brief intermission, the live action shorts will then step into the spotlight. Doors will open and seating will begin at 1:30 pm. Concessions, including a cash bar, will be available for purchase at our Ghost Light Bar in the elevator lobby. Attendees are asked to note that not all films will be suitable for all audiences. Parental Guidance Suggested: Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13. 

This exclusive event will be held at the historic Tibbits Opera House, 14. S. Hanchett St., in Coldwater, Michigan. Tickets are priced at $16, including fees, and can be purchased at Tibbits.org, by calling 517.278.6029, or at the Tibbits administrative office at 93 W. Chicago St., Coldwater.

This event is generously sponsored by Matthew C. Christopher, DDS, PC, of Coldwater and Union City.