The best VR short films to watch on your Oculus headset

Although virtual reality might seem like platform best suited for gaming at a first glance, it has actually opened up many new possibilities for visual and interactive storytelling. VR has the power to transport you to inside a story the way that films on the small or the silver screen never could.

It offers a new immersive perspective, not the least because of its 360 degree view. Virtual reality also lends itself incredibly well to the short film format, often delivering brief but powerful experiences. Of course, as with every new medium, filmmakers are still experimenting and finding how to best utilize VR to weave their narratives, but there already are some captivating experiences to be found. This is why we've compiled a list of the best short films and experiences the Oculus platform has to offer. Get your headset ready and let's go!

Marshall from Detroit

As the name suggests, this 21 minute experience directed by Caleb Slain, allows you to see the Motor City through Eminem's eyes. You join him and radio host Sway Calloway in a night ride through the city, as Marshall Mathers answers questions about his early carrier - his struggles mirrored in the decline and revival of the city. The setting is both immersive and intimate, as you sit across from the rap legend and listen to him talk candidly. Of course, you are also shown gorgeous views of the city itself - from the car, and from Detroit rooftops, virtually transporting you to the Motor City.

Marshall from Detroit doesn't have a classic story structure, but that's to its benefit, not to its detriment. The atmospheric journey it takes you on is breathtaking. It's an experience you shouldn't miss even if you are not a hip hop fan.

Length: 21 minutes

Where to get: Oculus Store

Price: Free

Traveling While Black

The next virtual reality film on our list is a documentary from Academy Award-winning director Roger Ross Williams. Inspired by the Green Book, a travel guide

The film, which draws a line from segregationist policies of the 1950s to modern-day police violence

As you can guess from its name, this virtual reality film explores the history of traveling while black in 20th century America, exploring how much things have and have not changed. We hear first hand accounts from various people, all while we sit in a '50s style diner which was a heaven for African Americans during segregation. The visuals are wonderful and the transitions from past to present are masterful - they are often juxtaposed in the diner's mirror. However, the subjects discussed are not light by any means, especially when we are confronted by an interview with Tamir Rice's mother, who tearfully tells the story of her son's untimely death at the hands of the police.

Length: 19 minutes

Where to get: Oculus Store

Price: Free

Henry

As an Oculus Studio Story production developed by talent that previously worked on Brave and Toy Story 3, it's no wonder this film reminded me of Pixar shorts. It tells the story of Henry, a hedgehog preparing to celebrate his birthday. All he wishes for is a friend, but that can be hard when you're prickly! Narrated by Elijah Wood,

the film is short but touching and relies more

It has lively and adorable animation that will pull on your heartstrings. The film also takes advantage of its medium, creating magical moments that fly around you in 360 degrees. It's ideal for both adults and children, and it definitely deserves its Emmy Award.

Length:

Where to get:

Price: Free

Coco VR/Disney VR films

If you can expect one studio to bring the magic of animation to a new medium, it's Disney.

Of course, we are not talking about feature length movies yet, but all of Disney's virtual reality animation is nonetheless stunning. Coco VR is one of these interactive shorts that transports you to the magic land of the dead. The visuals are just as amazing as those you see in the original film, as you are taken on a train ride through the city.

However, the best part, in my opinion, were the interactive parts. Most VR films don’t take advantage of interactivity, which to me is part of the immersion. Here, you get to dress up and perform on stage, merrily playing the maracas. Although short, the experience is cute and enjoyable - it's a must for every Disney fan. I also recommend checking out the Disney VR app itself, which has many more great shorts, including some from the Star Wars universe, with MCU (Marvel cinematic universe) ones expected to arrive soon too.

Length: Varies as it's an interactive experience

Where to get: Disney VR app/Oculus Store

Price: Free

Dear Angelica

We've saved the best for last. Created with the Quill tool, which lets illustrators create animations directly in VR, Dear Angelica is an experience like no other.

Its stunning hand drawn animation tells the story of a daughter remembering her mother, as she watches her epic movies - mixing up memories and moments from the silver screen. It's poignant, moving and full of life. Angelica's movie adventures come to life all around you and you don't want to miss a single frame. It is a true work of art.

Length: 13 minutes

Where to get: Oculus Store

Price: Free

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