BY SHARON SIBINDI
The European Film Festival Zimbabwe (EuroFilmFestZW2023) has unveiled the finalists for the highly anticipated BIOSKOP Short Film Contest 2023.
This year’s fete will take place at Mbare Arts Space in Harare from October 20-22 and Sterlinekor in Bulawayo from October 26-28 under the theme Crossing borders.
Some of the finalists include Daughter of the Soil, who has been nominated for the Best Narrative and Best Cinematography while My Name is My Name has been nominated for Best Narrative and Best Sound Editing and Mann Friday — Fight for Me has been nominated for Best Narrative and Best Cinematography.
In a press release from Paper Bag Africa, EuroFilmFestZW2023 said they received 55 submissions this year.
“This year, we received an impressive 55 submissions, marking a significant increase from the previous year, highlighting the growing interest and enthusiasm within the Zimbabwean film industry,” reads the statement.
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“One of the most exciting developments this year has been the increased participation of female producers and directors, showcasing the diverse talents within the industry and promoting gender equality in filmmaking.”
The winners of this year’s competition will be announced during exclusive cocktail events in Harare on October 20 and Bulawayo on October 26.
“Additionally, the winning film will be screened during these events. We extend a warm invitation to all shortlisted filmmakers to join us at these prestigious gatherings,” reads the press release.
European Film Festival Zimbabwe coordinator Gilmore Tee said they were excited about the increase in submissions this year.
“The Bioskop Short Film Competition is one of the most intriguing programs we have with the European Film Festival Zimbabwe,” he said.
“We get an insight into Zimbabwean lives through film and we need to applaud the Zimbabwean filmmakers for such an outstanding job in telling our stories as a people.
“Congratulations to all shortlisted films.”
Prosper Kunyetu, a member of the Bioskop jury for 2023, shared his thoughts on the submissions saying he was honoured to be invited to serve as a judge for the short film competition.
“As a past participant and award winner, I had high expectations for the submissions, and I was not disappointed,” he said.
“The films were diverse in genre and style, and they represented a wide range of perspectives and voices.
“I was particularly pleased to see a significant increase in participation by women directors this year.
“While the quality of the films varied, I was impressed by the overall creativity and passion of the filmmakers.
“There were many outstanding films, and the jury found it difficult to choose the nominees.
“I would like to commend all of the filmmakers who submitted their films to the competition.
“Your work is an inspiration, and I look forward to seeing what you create in the future.”