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Best Movies Under 90 Minutes: Top 25 Ranked Picks
Has anyone else noticed that contemporary films are increasingly clocking in with longer runtimes? For example, Oppenheimer spans an impressive three hours, while <em>The Brutalist</em> exceeds the 180-minute threshold. As a result, viewers often find themselves grappling with the discomfort of sitting for extended periods, leading to a race against time to control their bladders and endure numb backs. It’s a reality that these lengthy cinematic experiences can feel overwhelming, especially for those who may not have the luxury of spending an entire afternoon at the movies.
Fortunately, there’s a silver lining: a plethora of films with runtimes under ninety minutes that are equally captivating. These concise cinematic gems (not to be confused with traditional short films) provide viewers with a fulfilling experience without the hefty time commitment. The best movies that last around 90 minutes are ideal for those seeking a quick yet rewarding viewing experience. In many cases, the shorter films deliver just as much enjoyment, proving that sometimes less is more!
25
‘Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit’ (2005) – 85 minutes
Directed by Nick Park and Steve Box
Wallace & Gromit are an iconic British duo featured in a series of beloved claymation shorts from Aardman. They first debuted in 1989, and their feature film breakthrough came with the 2005 release of Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit. The plot thickens when a ferocious creature threatens the town’s cherished Giant Vegetable competition, prompting Wallace (Peter Sallis) and his clever dog Gromit to embark on a thrilling quest to capture it.
Awarded the prestigious Academy Award for Best Animated Feature, The Curse of the Were-Rabbit is a delightful experience from beginning to end. The film is rich in action, mystery, and humor, expertly packed into its brisk runtime, showcasing Aardman’s signature dedication to intricate and lovingly crafted stop-motion animation. Its sharp humor makes it a fantastic option for both children and adults, ensuring delightful entertainment for all ages.
![wallace-gromit_-the-curse-of-the-were-rabbit-2005-poster.jpg](https://static1.colliderimages.com/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/sharedimages/2024/06/wallace-gromit_-the-curse-of-the-were-rabbit-2005-poster.jpg)
Wallace & Gromit: The Curse of the Were-Rabbit
- Release Date
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October 7, 2005
- Runtime
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85 Minutes
- Director
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Nick Park, Steve Box
24
‘Petite Maman’ (2021) – 72 minutes
Directed by Céline Sciamma
From <em>Portrait of a Lady on Fire</em> director Céline Sciamma, Petite Maman is a beautifully crafted and heartfelt exploration of childhood and the wonders of imagination. The story follows Nelly (Joséphine Sanz), an eight-year-old girl who helps her mother clean out her childhood home after the passing of her grandmother. As she wanders into the surrounding woods, Nelly encounters and befriends Marion (Gabrielle Sanz), another girl of her age, leading to a magical connection.
Petite Maman is a touching narrative that utilizes the lens of magical realism to unfold its story, revealing that the girl Nelly meets is actually her mother as a child. With a runtime of just seventy-two minutes, this film offers a poignant, slow-burn narrative that beautifully captures themes of growth, imagination, and the experience of loss. It’s a gentle viewing experience that leaves a lasting emotional impact, making it a must-watch.
23
‘Shiva Baby’ (2020) – 77 minutes
Directed by Emma Seligman
Shiva Baby runs for just seventy-seven minutes, but it masterfully creates a sense of tension that makes for a truly anxiety-inducing viewing experience. During a Jewish funeral with her parents, college student Danielle (Rachel Sennott) unexpectedly encounters her sugar daddy (Danny Deferrari) and ex-girlfriend (Molly Gordon). As she navigates the complexities of her relationships and the scrutiny from her overbearing family, what was supposed to be a somber occasion quickly spirals into chaos.
Set within the confines of a bustling house, Shiva Baby creates a claustrophobic atmosphere that feels almost nightmarish. The rapid-fire dialogue and overlapping conversations (think Uncut Gems) ground the film in a sense of realism that hits close to home. The audience is thrust into Danielle’s perspective, which is an experience fraught with stress and humor. Sennott delivers a standout performance that showcases her talent, solidifying her status as one of Hollywood’s rising stars.