DeKalb Elementary

During a school shooting, a determined principal locks down the school and tries to guide the students through the terrifying ordeal. The film focuses on the immediate aftermath of the event, depicting the bravery of educators and the harrowing experiences of young students trapped in lockdown.

DeKalb Elementary was widely acclaimed for its tense and emotionally resonant portrayal of a school shooting from the perspective of those inside. Critics praised its handling of a sensitive subject matter with restraint and focus on the human element, particularly the actions of the principal and the children's reactions.

• Highly effective in creating suspense and capturing the fear of a lockdown situation.

• Praised for its sensitive and realistic portrayal of a difficult topic.

• Commended for its focus on resilience and bravery in the face of tragedy.

Google audience: Audience reviews are generally positive, with viewers often highlighting the film's emotional impact and its ability to create a palpable sense of tension and fear during the lockdown sequence. Many found the film to be a powerful and thought-provoking short.

Won the Grand Jury Prize for Best Narrative Short Film at the Sundance Film Festival in 2017. Nominated for an Academy Award for Best Live Action Short Film.

The film was inspired by a real-life lockdown event at an elementary school in DeKalb County, Georgia, though the specific events and characters are fictionalized.