Disney+ Adds Miriam Margolyes’ New Short “A Friend Of Dorothy”

Disney has kicked off the New Year by adding a new live-action short film called ‘A Friend Of Dorothy’ onto Disney+ in the United Kingdom and Europe.

This short tells the story of Dorothy, who is a lonely widow whose body is failing, but her mind remains as bright as ever. When 17-year-old JJ accidentally kicks his football into her garden, he upends Dorothy’s daily routine of pills, prunes, and crosswords, and an unlikely friendship blossoms. Despite being worlds apart in every way, the two come to find they have more in common than they could ever imagine.

The short has been directed by Lee Knight and stars Miriam Margolyes as Dorothy and Alistair Nwachukwu (Shadow and Bone) plays JJ, along with Stephen Fry and Oscar Lloyd.

The short was also recently shortlisted for the Oscars and recently picked up some awards at the HollyShorts event in London.

Lee Knight explained to Deadline why being released on Disney+ is important:

“I want to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Academy for shortlisting A Friend of Dorothy in the Best Short Film category. This film speaks to the power of human connection and the importance of feeling seen, regardless of the differences we may perceive between one another. It is deeply encouraging to see stories of companionship, acceptance and authentic living recognized on the global stage.”

“A Friend Of Dorothy” was created by Filthy Gorgeous Productions banner made the film in association with A Marlow’s Production, Double Dice Films and Namesake Films. James Dean (The Stolen Girl), Scottie Fotré and Max Marlow produced. The roster of executive producers included Stephen Daldry and Sonia Friedman.

This is the second award-winning short to be added onto Disney+ in the UK and Europe this week, which all help towards the European quota, while also giving British viewers local content to enjoy.

Are you going to be checking out “A Friend Of Dorothy”? Let me know on social media!