In this work, several case studies involving complex short-time and small-scale behavior of fluid interfaces are presented. The case studies themselves are essentially unique --- involving various forces and effects (mechanical, chemical, electromagnetic, and thermal), and requiring different experimental techniques in order to elucidate the nature of the phenomena and to address the open questions. Some of the phenomena we explore are familiar to most individuals, for example spilling coffee while walking, the formation of a splash due to the impact of a solid object on a liquid surface, or the bursting of soap films. Others are not, like the behavior of coating flows, or the seemingly self-sustained behavior of micro-scale droplet formation using surfactant gradients. But all share intriguing questions, and interesting answers. This tour through a variety of interfacial phenomena has at its purpose, the goal of answering important open questions. The answers serve to verify existing theoretical predictions, resolve disputes between competing theories, and reveal the nature of previously reported behaviors.