Mickey Duzyj

Unseen since its exodus from the radio, the critically-loathed world of Smooth Jazz has evolved into a joy-filled paradise for senior citizens. Facing extinction, its artists and fans band together to find a new leader that can save the Smooth World.

An obsessive basketball fan cracks the code for getting on his home arena’s Jumbotron and decides to wield his new power for good.

In Japanese, Haru Urara means “Glorious Spring.” But as this 30 for 30 Short, directed by Mickey Duzyj, makes delightfully clear, the name means a great deal more to the Japanese people. Haru Urara was a thoroughbred mare who never won a race. She first came to the public’s attention after her 88th straight loss at troubled Kochi Racetrack, then picked up more and more supporters with each defeat. With her pink Hello Kitty patches, she became a symbol of hope in Japan. And though she never did win, Haru Urara did accomplish something greater: she saved the racetrack.