Top 10 Must-Watch Short Films on Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts YouTube Channel

In an age of quick content and shrinking attention spans, short films have carved a distinct niche for themselves. Telling compelling stories in under 20 minutes, they offer a unique blend of depth and brevity. One of the best destinations for discovering such cinematic gems is the Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films YouTube channel. This platform has consistently delivered some of the best short films online, curated by acclaimed directors and featuring powerful performances.

Whether you're a casual viewer or a film enthusiast, here are 10 of the best rated short films you can start streaming right now. Each one presents the best story for short film lovers—rich in emotion, character, and substance.

Aloo Bhujia

Starring: Rannvijay Singha, Arnav Maggo

 Duration: Approx. 15 minutes

Aloo Bhujia is an understated yet powerful short film exploring the emotional distance between a father and son. Set over a quiet meal, it uses silence more than words to reveal unspoken pain, expectations, and disappointment. The film beautifully captures how simple everyday moments can carry layers of complex emotions. It’s a stellar example of how the best story for a short film doesn’t need dramatic twists—just authenticity.

Next Please

Starring: Jim Sarbh, Shreya Dhanwanthary

 Duration: Approx. 18 minutes

Next Please explores the dynamics of modern dating with wit and sensitivity. A couple on a seemingly casual date quickly finds themselves in a vulnerable, emotional space where truths are exposed. The sharp dialogue, excellent chemistry, and layered writing make it one of the best rated short films for anyone interested in stories about connection in the digital age. It stands out as one of the best short films online for its relevance and emotional honesty.

The Promise

Directed by: Tigmanshu Dhulia

 Duration: Approx. 20 minutes

The Promise is a gentle yet poignant film about an elderly couple reflecting on their life together. Through tender moments and flashbacks, it captures the essence of long-term companionship—love that quietly persists through age, illness, and memory loss. The subtle performances and restrained direction make it one of the most emotionally fulfilling streaming short films available on YouTube.

Badminton

Starring: Sayani Gupta, Jim Sarbh

 Duration: Approx. 17 minutes

Badminton unfolds in a single location—a bar—where a tense reunion between two old acquaintances leads to an unexpected climax. What begins as light banter slowly turns into a confrontation full of emotional revelations. The film is gripping, intelligent, and driven by solid performances. Its minimalism is its strength, and it easily earns its place among the best rated short films on the channel.

Interior Café Night

Starring: Naseeruddin Shah, Shernaz Patel, Naveen Kasturia

 Duration: Approx. 13 minutes

This film is a meditation on lost love and second chances. It tells two parallel stories: one of an elderly couple reuniting after decades and another of a young couple beginning their journey. Interior Café Night excels in conveying emotion with quiet grace and soft-spoken dialogue. If you're looking for the best short films online that stir deep emotions, this is a top contender.

Ouch 2

Directed by: Neeraj Pandey

 Duration: Approx. 11 minutes

Ouch 2 is a sharp, dark comedy that continues the themes explored in the original Ouch. It pokes fun at the absurdity of extramarital affairs, exposing how people often justify their bad decisions in the name of love or lust. With crisp writing and an ironic tone, it is one of the most entertaining streaming short films currently available on Royal Stag Barrel Select Shorts' official channel.

Call Him Eddy (Hired for a Hug)

Starring: Sanjay Suri

 Duration: Approx. 15 minutes

Call Him Eddy tells the story of a professional hugger, Eddy, who offers physical comfort to those in need. But as the film progresses, it becomes clear that even Eddy is searching for something more meaningful. This heartwarming film shines a spotlight on modern loneliness and the human craving for connection. It’s a quietly profound narrative and a prime example of the best story for a short film.

Disconnected

Starring: Gul Panag

 Duration: Approx. 12 minutes

Disconnected is a minimalist story about emotional drift between two people who once shared a strong bond. Without dramatic confrontations or loud exchanges, the film portrays the quiet unraveling of love. It’s relatable, honest, and deeply reflective—ideal for those seeking streaming short films with emotional depth and realism.

Jiya Jaye

Directed by: Palash Sen

 Starring: Kinshuk Sen, Bani J, Palash Sen

 Duration: Approx. 16 minutes

Set against the politically charged backdrop of Kashmir, Jiya Jaye follows the return of a soldier to his hometown. He comes back to find his world—and his relationship—no longer the same. With powerful visuals and a haunting soundtrack, the film explores love, identity, and sacrifice. It’s one of the best rated short films for its cinematic ambition and emotional resonance.

White Shirt

Starring: Kunal Kapoor, Kritika Kamra

 Duration: Approx. 18 minutes

White Shirt centers around a man unable to let go of a relationship symbolized by a piece of clothing left behind—his ex’s white shirt. Through introspective flashbacks and restrained dialogue, the film explores emotional baggage, heartbreak, and healing. It’s subtle, symbolic, and perfect for viewers who appreciate quiet, character-driven drama. Truly, one of the best short films online when it comes to romantic introspection.

Final Thoughts

The Royal Stag Barrel Select Large Short Films YouTube channel is a treasure trove for anyone interested in meaningful cinema without the time investment of a full-length film. Whether you're into emotional dramas, dark comedies, or love stories with a twist, these films represent the best in the short format.

These 10 films stand out not just for their storytelling, but also for the sincerity and craftsmanship that go into each frame. If you're looking to discover the best short films online or simply want to start streaming short films that are impactful, this curated list is the perfect place to begin.

So sit back, hit play, and dive into these beautifully crafted stories—all available to stream for free.