ALEX Gwaze, the co-curator and co-co-ordinator of European Film Festival Zimbabwe, says the European Union Bioskop Short Film Competition, which is the centre of attraction at the European Union Film Festival Zimbabwe, comes bigger with prize monies having been doubled compared to last year.
To this effect, the Bioskop Short Film Competition has set April 6 as the deadline for submission of entries in response to the EU recurring theme, Celebrating Women.
The Bioskop Short Film Competition requires filmmakers to align their works to the theme Celebrating Women.
Filmmakers are obliged to interpret the Celebrating Women theme broadly, whether through personal stories, historical tributes or creative explorations of strength, resilience and femininity.
The competition welcomes films that reflect how women challenge norms, inspire change and leave lasting legacies both on and off the screen.
Gwaze said he was impressed by the leads and networks that last year’s Bioskop Short Film Competition winners have created for themselves and the EU Film Festival at large.
Accordingly, last year’s winner in The Best Narrative category was My Husband Joe by Derby Bheta, while the Best Documentary category was scooped by Chasing Levels by Dumie Manyathela, which also banged the Best Cinematography category.
The Fat Bastard by Jonathan Samukange won the Best Sound, while My Brother’s Keeper by Tinashe Dorobeni became the Best Diaspora Narrative.
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Last and not least, Therapist by Admire Zimbeva had the Best Actor/Actress award taken by Chiedza Rwodzi.
To enter the Bioskop Short Film Competition, one must be a Zimbabwean resident, based, living or working in the country or of Zimbabwean heritage living in any European or African country.
This prize monies for this year’s competition are Best Narrative Short (US$800), Best Documentary Short (US$800), Best Sound Editing (US$400), Best Cinematography (US$400), Best Diaspora Film (US$400) and Best Actor/Actress (US$40).
“Furthermore, in recognition of the incredible talent of Zimbabwean filmmakers, this year we are increasing our commitment to the Bioskop Competition by doubling the prize pool from US$400 to US$800,” Gwaze said in a Press statement recently.
“This initiative is a tribute to our filmmakers who continually push boundaries of creativity and we want to especially encourage more women to take part in the competition. While we typically receive 50 to 60 entries each year, we have noticed a concerning trend: fewer entries from female filmmakers.”
Added Gwaze: “Thus, the theme Celebrating Women, is a deliberate and passionate focus at amplifying the voices and stories of women.
“We believe this is an important step in showcasing women’s narratives, struggles and triumphs while encouraging more women to take centre stage in fostering solidarity and peace in Africa. To mark our 10th anniversary, we’ve increased the competition’s prize money for this year only.
“This is a one-time opportunity to not only win, but also to celebrate your craft. We strongly urge filmmakers, both established and first-time entrants, to submit their work for a chance to be part of this prestigious event.”
Gwaze said the European Union was proud to announce the 10th anniversary of the European Film Festival Zimbabwe, a decade-long celebration of cinematic artistry that bridges cultures and continents.
“This year’s festival takes on a special significance as it honours the theme Celebrating Women.
“The European Film Festival has always been unique in its commitment to showcasing not only the best of European cinema but also Zimbabwean and African films,” Gwaze said.
“This year, we are excited to realign the festival with key European and African milestones. For the first time in years, the festival will be held in May to coincide with Europe Day and Africa Day, both of which carry historical importance for their respective continents.”
Last year, the European Film Festival took place in Harare, Kadoma, Gweru and Bulawayo, respectively, in a space of 10 days.
