The Academy Awards, also known as the Oscars, are one of the most prestigious awards ceremonies in the film industry. Each year, the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences recognizes the best films of the previous year with a variety of awards, including the highly coveted Best Picture award.

Over the years, the Best Picture category has seen its fair share of long and epic films take home the top prize. From sweeping historical dramas to epic sci-fi adventures, the Best Picture winners often clock in at well over two hours in length.

But what about the shorter films that have managed to snag the Best Picture title? While they may not have the runtime of their longer counterparts, these films pack just as much punch and are often just as impactful.

In this list, we’ll be taking a look at some of the shortest Best Picture winners in Academy Awards history. These films may be brief in terms of runtime, but they are certainly not lacking in quality. From intimate character studies to heart-pounding action films, these movies prove that sometimes less really is more.

So without further ado, let’s dive into some of the shortest Best Picture winners ever!

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16 Moonlight (I) (2016): 111 minutes

     A24

At just 111 minutes, Moonlight managed to capture the hearts of audiences and critics alike, ultimately taking home the Best Picture award at the 2017 Academy Awards. This intimate character study follows the life of a young, African American man named Chiron as he struggles to navigate his identity and sexuality while growing up in a tough neighborhood in Miami.

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The film features a talented cast of relative unknowns, with standout performances from Mahershala Ali and Naomie Harris. The story is told in three distinct acts, each focusing on a different stage of Chiron’s life, and the film’s stunning cinematography and heartfelt script make it a truly moving and unforgettable experience.

15 CODA (2021): 111 minutes

     Apple TV+

Also clocking in at 111 minutes, CODA is a heartwarming and uplifting film that tells the story of a young woman named Ruby who dreams of a career in singing, but feels the weight of familial expectations to become a fisherman like her parents and siblings. When a famous music producer discovers Ruby’s talent, she is faced with the difficult decision of following her dreams or staying loyal to her family and their traditions.

The film boasts a talented cast, including Emilia Jones in the lead role and Ferdia Walsh-Peelo as her love interest. CODA’s catchy original songs and poignant message about the importance of pursuing one’s passions make it a standout entry on this list.

14 All the King’s Men (1949): 110 minutes

At just 110 minutes, All the King’s Men may be brief, but it packs a punch. This film tells the tale of a charismatic politician named Willie Stark, who rises to power in the 1930s with his promises of reform and justice, only to become corrupted by the very system he sought to change.

The film features a stellar cast, including Broderick Crawford in the lead role and supporting turns from the likes of Mercedes McCambridge and John Ireland. All the King’s Men’s sharp script and gripping performances make it a memorable and thought-provoking entry on this list.

13 In the Heat of the Night (1967): 110 minutes

     United Artists

Also clocking in at 110 minutes, In the Heat of the Night is a tense and gripping crime drama that tells the story of a black detective named Virgil Tibbs who becomes embroiled in a murder investigation in a small, racist Southern town. The film features a memorable turn from Sidney Poitier as Tibbs, as well as supporting performances from Rod Steiger and Warren Oates.

The film’s sharp script and social commentary make it a standout entry on this list, and its enduring popularity is evident in the numerous remakes and adaptations that it has inspired. In the Heat of the Night is a must-see for fans of crime dramas and socially conscious cinema.

12 On the Waterfront (1954): 108 minutes

     Distributed by Columbia Pictures

Clocking in at 108 minutes, On the Waterfront tells the story of former boxer Terry Malloy, played by Marlon Brando in one of his most iconic roles. When Malloy witnesses a murder committed by corrupt union bosses, he must decide whether to come forward as a witness or remain silent in the face of threats and intimidation.

Directed by Elia Kazan and featuring a cast that also includes Eva Marie Saint and Rod Steiger, On the Waterfront is a powerful and poignant film that explores themes of loyalty, corruption, and redemption.

11 Nomadland (2020): 107 minutes

     Searchlight Pictures

With a runtime of 107 minutes, Nomadland tells the story of Fern, a woman who embarks on a journey through the American West after the economic collapse of her town. Along the way, she meets other nomads and together they explore the beauty and harsh realities of living on the road.

Starring Frances McDormand in a career-defining performance, Nomadland is a stunning and deeply moving film that explores themes of loss, resilience, and the human spirit.

10 It Happened One Night (1934): 105 minutes

     Columbia Pictures

This classic romantic comedy clocks in at a brisk 105 minutes and follows the story of Ellie Andrews, a young heiress who has run away from her wealthy father in order to marry a man he disapproves of. Along the way, she meets Peter Warne, a cynical newspaper reporter played by Clark Gable, and the two embark on a cross-country journey filled with misadventures and romance.

Starring Gable and Claudette Colbert in their iconic roles, It Happened One Night is a charming and enduring film that cemented its place in Hollywood history by winning all five major Academy Awards in 1934.

9 Kramer vs. Kramer (1979): 105 minutes

This emotional drama, which clocks in at 105 minutes, tells the story of Ted Kramer, a workaholic advertising executive played by Dustin Hoffman, who must learn to cope with the challenges of single parenthood when his wife leaves him and their young son. Along the way, he must navigate a custody battle with his ex-wife and learn to balance his responsibilities as a father with his career.

Featuring a cast that also includes Meryl Streep and Justin Henry, Kramer vs. Kramer is a poignant and powerful film that explores themes of family, love, and personal growth.

8 The French Connection (1971): 104 minutes

     20th Century Fox 

The French Connection, released in 1971, tells the story of two New York City detectives who are hot on the trail of a group of French drug smugglers. Starring Gene Hackman and Roy Scheider, the film follows the detectives as they navigate the dangerous world of drug trafficking and try to bring down the criminal organization.

One of the most iconic elements of The French Connection is its high-octane car chase scene, which has been hailed as one of the best in film history. With its edge-of-your-seat action and top-notch performances from its leading actors, it’s no wonder that The French Connection took home the Best Picture award at the 1972 Academy Awards.

7 Casablanca (1942): 102 minutes

     Warner Bros.

Casablanca, released in 1942, is a classic love story set against the backdrop of World War II. The film follows Rick Blaine, a cynical American expatriate who runs a nightclub in Casablanca, Morocco. When Rick’s old flame Ilsa arrives in town with her husband, a resistance leader, Rick is forced to confront his past and decide where his loyalties lie.

With its iconic dialogue, sweeping romantic gestures, and star-studded cast that includes Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman, it’s no wonder that Casablanca has become one of the most beloved films of all time. The film won the Best Picture award at the 1943 Academy Awards, cementing its place in film history.

6 The Lost Weekend (1945): 101 minutes

     Paramount Pictures

The Lost Weekend, released in 1945, tells the story of Don Birnam, a struggling writer who is battling with alcoholism. As Don’s addiction spirals out of control, he finds himself on a destructive bender that threatens to ruin his career and his relationships.

The film, which stars Ray Milland as Don Birnam, is a raw and unflinching portrayal of addiction and the destructive power it can wield. With its strong performances and realistic portrayal of addiction, it’s no surprise that The Lost Weekend won the Best Picture award at the 1946 Academy Awards.

5 The Broadway Melody (1929): 100 minutes

     MGM

Released in 1929, The Broadway Melody is a groundbreaking film that marked the first time that a sound film had won the Best Picture award at the Academy Awards. The film follows the story of two sisters who are trying to make it big on Broadway.

Starring Bessie Love and Anita Page, The Broadway Melody is a charming and lighthearted look at the world of show business. With its catchy musical numbers and delightful performances from its leading ladies, it’s no wonder that the film was a hit with audiences and critics alike. The film’s win at the 1930 Academy Awards solidified its place in film history as a pioneering work in the world of musicals.

4 The Artist (I) (2011): 100 minutes

     Warner Bros. France

The 2011 film The Artist tells the story of a silent film actor struggling to adapt to the new world of talkies in Hollywood. The film stars Jean Dujardin as the silent film actor and Bérénice Bejo as a rising young actress. One of the standout aspects of The Artist is its unique decision to be a silent film itself, paying tribute to the era in which it is set. This decision adds an extra layer of nostalgia and charm to the film, and the black and white cinematography only adds to its classic feel.

Despite being a silent film in a modern age, The Artist managed to captivate audiences and critics alike, earning numerous accolades and ultimately taking home the Best Picture award at the Academy Awards.

3 Driving Miss Daisy (1989): 99 minutes

     The Zanuck Company

Next up is the 1989 film Driving Miss Daisy, which follows the unlikely friendship between an elderly Southern woman and her African American chauffeur. The film stars Morgan Freeman as the chauffeur, Hoke Colburn, and Jessica Tandy as the titular Miss Daisy. The film spans over a period of 25 years, and follows the characters as they navigate the changing social climate of the South and their own personal growth.

The performances of Freeman and Tandy are standout, with the two actors having a natural chemistry that anchors the film. Despite its relatively short runtime, Driving Miss Daisy manages to pack in a lot of emotion and depth, tackling themes of racism, ageism, and the power of friendship. It’s no surprise that the film was a critical and commercial success, ultimately winning the Best Picture award at the Academy Awards.

2 Annie Hall (1977): 93 minutes

     Rollins-Joffe Production

The 1977 winner is a comedy-drama, Annie Hall. The film follows the tumultuous relationship between the titular character, played by Diane Keaton, and comedian Alvy Singer, played by Woody Allen. What sets Annie Hall apart from other romantic comedies is its clever use of non-linear storytelling, as well as its willingness to delve into deeper themes such as love, loss, and the search for meaning. Keaton and Allen have excellent chemistry as the leads, and their performances anchor the film.

Annie Hall was a critical and commercial success, and is considered one of the greatest romantic comedies of all time. The film won four Academy Awards, including Best Picture and Best Actress for Keaton.

1 Marty (1955): 90 minutes

Last but not least on our list is the 1955 film Marty. The film tells the story of a middle-aged butcher, played by Ernest Borgnine, who struggles to find love and connection in his working-class neighborhood.

What makes Marty stand out is its ability to tell a simple yet deeply affecting story, with excellent performances by its lead actors. Borgnine’s portrayal of the titular character is particularly standout, earning him the Academy Award for Best Actor.

The shortest Best Picture winners in Academy Awards history are a diverse and impressive group of films. From the timeless romance of Annie Hall to the heartwarming friendship at the center of Driving Miss Daisy, these films prove that sometimes the best things come in small packages. Whether they’re tackling heavy themes or simply telling a heartwarming story, these films have all earned their place in cinematic history and continue to be beloved by audiences around the world. These films may be short, but they are certainly not forgettable, and will no doubt continue to be remembered as some of the greatest Best Picture winners in Academy Awards history.