7 gripping short films on Amazon Prime Video

Amazon Prime Video offers a collection of captivating short films that pack powerful stories into a compact format. 

These films explore a wide range of genres, from thrillers and mysteries to emotional dramas and social commentaries, delivering intense narratives that grip the audience. Whether it’s suspenseful twists, heartfelt moments, or sharp reflections on society, these short films leave a lasting impact within their brief run time.

1. Ahalya
   Director: Sujoy Ghosh
   Plot: Ahalya is a modern retelling of a mythological tale from the  Ramayana. The story revolves around a young police officer who visits the house of a famous artist and his beautiful wife, Ahalya. The officer is drawn into an eerie game of seduction and deceit, where things are not what they seem. The short film plays on themes of temptation, manipulation, and punishment.Additional Info: This thriller mixes mythology with a contemporary twist, creating an eerie atmosphere and making the audience question reality.

2. Juice
Director: Neeraj Ghaywan
Plot: Juice is a sharp social commentary that highlights the subtle, ingrained patriarchy in Indian households. Set during a family gathering, it shows how women are relegated to the kitchen while men enjoy themselves in the living room. The protagonist, played by Shefali Shah, experiences the boiling frustration of being sidelined until a simple act of defiance changes everything.

Additional Info: The short film powerfully reflects the everyday gender inequalities and has been praised for its realistic portrayal of domestic settings.

3. Devi
Director: Priyanka Banerjee
Plot: Devi brings together nine women from different walks of life, each a survivor of abuse, living together in a cramped room. As they discuss their tragic pasts, a new victim enters, sparking a debate over how much pain each can bear. 

The film touches on the heavy subject of violence against women and the harrowing experiences they face.Additional Info: Featuring actresses like Kajol and Neha Dhupia, the film tackles pressing social issues and challenges societal norms around justice for women.

4. The School Bag
Director: Dheeraj Jindal
Plot: Set in Pakistan, The School Bag tells the touching story of a young boy who wants a new school bag for his birthday. His mother hesitates, but eventually agrees. The film takes an emotional turn, ending with a reference to the tragic 2014 Peshawar school massacre, leaving viewers with a heavy heart.

Additional Info: The short film has received multiple awards and is celebrated for its heartfelt storytelling and impactful ending.

5. Rogan Josh

Director: Sanjeev Vig
Plot: Rogan Josh begins with a chef hosting a dinner party with his family and friends. As they enjoy the meal, the conversation takes an unexpected turn as a dark truth about a tragic event emerges. The film slowly builds suspense, leading to a shocking conclusion that reflects on the Mumbai terror attacks of 2008.Additional Info: Featuring actor Naseeruddin Shah, the film mixes suspense and social commentary, highlighting how trauma is processed in different ways.

6. Chutney
Director: Jyoti Kapur Das
Plot: In Chutney, Tisca Chopra plays a housewife who, during a casual conversation with a younger woman, reveals the disturbing secrets of her life in an unsettling and matter-of-fact tone. The story revolves around jealousy, betrayal, and how far one can go to preserve appearances.

Additional Info: This psychological thriller captivates viewers with its slow-burn narrative and unexpected revelations. The setting in a small town adds to the intrigue and mystery.

7. Chhuri
Director: Mansi Jain
Plot: Chhuri (meaning “knife”) features a wife who calmly confronts her husband’s affair with his mistress. Unlike typical melodramatic confrontations, the wife approaches the situation with sharp wit, putting her husband and the mistress in an uncomfortable position. The story delves into marital infidelity, but with a fresh, sarcastic approach.
Additional Info: The short stars Tisca Chopra and Anurag Kashyap, and is praised for its clever writing and unexpected ending.

Summary:

The short films available on Amazon Prime Video showcase the talents of emerging and established filmmakers alike. They often touch on thought-provoking themes such as human relationships, moral dilemmas, and societal issues, all while keeping viewers engaged with tight storytelling. 

Whether you’re in the mood for a quick yet meaningful viewing experience or searching for stories that challenge conventional narratives, Amazon Prime’s selection of short films offers something for every audience. These shorts prove that length doesn’t determine the emotional or intellectual depth of a story—it’s the craftsmanship that truly matters.