3rd i’s signature shorts program brings California filmmakers into conversation with filmmakers from South Asia and the Diaspora. With genres ranging from comedy to contemporary music, and short-form documentaries to dramatic narratives, this year’s edition tackles stories of relationships, identity, environment, LGBTQ and social justice with compassion. Be warned, there’s a fair amount of humor!

When the Dust Came In, Abhi Singh (USA, 2019, 10 min). An expose on the minimalist life of sheepherders and their battles against international mining operations in Mongolia.
31 Foot Ladders, Andrew Sturm (USA, 2017, 5 min). A satirical commentary on Trump’s border wall.
Home Girl, Poonam Brah (UK, 2019, 12 min). A British-Pakistani woman’s struggle to reconcile her queerness with her deceased mother’s expectations.
Identity, Pallaví (USA, 2019, 3 min). A criticism of systemic oppression and celebration of an artist’s Indo-Fijian identity and community.
The Plunge, Simon Ryninks (UK, 2019, 10 min). A couple in love finds themselves ready to take the next step.
The Layover, Mahesh Pailoor & Anu Pradhan (USA, 2018, 9 min). An estranged couple reconnect by reliving a memorable date.
Mona Shaikh, Mahesh Pailoor (USA, 2017, 3 min). A portrait of a Pakistani-American comedienne.
Como Mínimo, Micropixie (USA, 2019, 7 min). A sixties French psych-pop inspired take on gender and sexual politics.
The Ice-Man, Heerak Shah (USA, 2019, 3 min). A comedic film about an unconventional encounter between an Indian man and a white woman at a suburban convenience store.
Gabroo, Varun Chounal (USA, 2018, 15 min). A light hearted film about a young Sikh boy’s complicated relationship with his hair.
What’s Your Brown Number? Vinnie Ann Bose (India, 2016, 5 min). An animated short exploring the absurdity of colorism.