Oscar-Nominated Short Film ‘A Friend of Dorothy’ Delivers Humor and Heartfelt Moments

LOS ANGELES — This year’s Oscar nominees for Best Live Action Short include the heartwarming film “A Friend of Dorothy,” which explores an unexpected and touching friendship.

The film centers on the chance encounter between a young, gay athlete who is trying to navigate his identity and a lonely widow.

The title of the short film is a nod to Judy Garland’s character Dorothy from “The Wizard of Oz,” referencing her journey along the Yellow Brick Road with her companions.

Historically, the phrase “a friend of Dorothy” was used as a discreet way to identify as gay.

In the film, the two protagonists bond over their shared passion for theater, while behind the scenes, director Lee Knight and lead actress Miriam Margolyes share a deep admiration for one another.

“I wrote the script for Miriam,” said Knight. “Obviously was aware of her as a person, but not personally. So, for me to sit here with Miriam now, here at the nominees luncheon, five years after I wrote the first draft, it’s just unbelievable. It really is a dream come true.”

“As soon as I read it, it shrieked at me. And I thought, I’ll have this,” said Margolyes, smiling. “I utterly believe in his talent. It’s extraordinary. And he knew how to help me to be the best that I could be.”

Knight said the two have a beautiful friendship now, but the story told in the movie is also a beautiful friendship.

“I want to be in people’s lives. All my life, I’ve been able to connect,” said Margolyes. “I’ve had the chance to connect. And that’s all I really want. Make a living and connection.”

“A Friend of Dorothy,” was inspired by Knight’s relationship with an elderly neighbor in London. The film is dedicated to her memory.

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