explore, funded by the Annenberg Foundation, is one of those rare, heart lifting websites that could make you grateful all over again for the wonders of the internet. From Live Cams of the Cayman Reef to lots of pictures of puppies and kittens, explore seeks to present the details of life, small and large, with an artist’s eye toward beauty. Scout by Channels (e.g. 11 minute films, Darfur &...

Since its creation a few years ago, the Independent Lens series has worked with various filmmakers and producers to create thoughtful portraits. These portraits have included subjects such as the life of Billy Strayhorn, people living with dystonia, and the world of Ethiopian coffee growers. Recently, they also embarked on yet another ambitious project: an online shorts festival. Visitors to this...

For readers who love short films, this website, which features Academy Award winning short films spanning several decades, will present itself as a welcome discovery. Here readers will find films ranging from comic to tragic, from the 2014 Dutch heart warmer, Helium, to the comically bizarre Franz Kafka's It's a Wonderful Life from 1995. In addition, anyone who loves the irreverent, antic comedy...

Have you ever wanted to attend a film festival from the comfort of your own living room? With this collection of 25 short films under the PBS banner, that dream can become a reality. The films are featured under the headline "Watch Us Surprise You," which is a worthy byline. New visitors should start by watching the introduction to the history of online video and then looking over the About the...

Created to help film students show their work, this site offers users the opportunity to view and comment on the work of tomorrow's auteurs. Presented in QuickTime format, the films are grouped in five categories: 3D Computer, Live Action, Stop Motion, Traditional, and Experimental. After free registration, users can post reviews of the films. At present, 26 short films are available. While there...