Introduction
As we eagerly approach the 10th anniversary of the International Short Film Festival Canton (ISFFC), our pre-festival report reflects on the journey that led us here. The 2023 edition of ISFFC marks a significant milestone in our commitment to short films, celebrating the vibrant tapestry of global cinema.
Exceptional Submissions
Our jubilation over this year's submissions cannot be overstated. From 72 countries, we received an overwhelming total of over 1,000 films, some of which had graced the esteemed stages of Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Sundance, Locarno, and Rotterdam. These submissions stand as a testament to the remarkable stories told through the medium of short films.
Curatorial Selection
The curatorial process was a meticulous endeavor. After extensive evaluation, our team selected 30 films that profoundly resonated with the 2023 thematic focus. These films represent the remarkable artistry, creativity, and diverse narratives found within the global short film landscape. They have been chosen not only for their exceptional craftsmanship but also for their exploration of contemporary issues.
Competition Selection
Out of the 30 films, 10 have been carefully chosen to vie for two prestigious awards: the Jury Selection Award and the Audience Choice Award. In this competitive segment, our esteemed jurors will play a pivotal role. We are honored to introduce:
*Tammy Tai (Switzerland): A prominent producer, Tammy Tai's extensive experience includes serving on the International Competition Jury at the 37th Warsaw Film Festival. Her insight into global cinema will be invaluable in selecting the best of the best.
*Đàm Thị Huyền Trang (Vietnam/China): Đàm Thị Huyền Trang is a distinguished actress with a significant role in a domestic series comprising over 4,000 episodes. Her perspective as an artist and her understanding of contemporary storytelling will greatly contribute to our jury.
*Jian Liang (China/Foshan Cultural Entrepreneur Association): With a wealth of experience in cultural and film industries, Jian Liang will provide a unique perspective, especially in identifying films that resonate with the cultural dynamics of the region.
Audience Involvement
In our efforts to make this festival inclusive, we are hosting various events, including Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and workshops with filmmakers. This aims to engage the audience and provide them with a deeper understanding of the art of short filmmaking, enhancing their overall festival experience.
Looking Forward
As we approach the opening of the 2023 ISFFC, our hearts are filled with anticipation and appreciation for the collaboration of filmmakers, volunteers, collaborators, and the global audience. Together, we celebrate the power of short films to tell captivating stories. Cheers to the upcoming 10th anniversary of ISFFC!
OFFICIAL SELECTION
Competition
·Le variabili dipendenti | Lorenzo Tardella | Fiction | 15´| Italy
·Please Hold the Line | Tan Ce Ding | Fiction | 19´| Malaysia
·Nocturnal Burger | Reema Maya | Fiction| 28´| US/India
·A kind of Testament | Stephen Vuillemin | Animation | 17´| France
·Sideral | Carlos Segundo | Fiction | 15´| Brazil/France
·Think something nice | Claudius Gentinetta | Animation | 6´| Switzerland
·I am Thirsty | Giorgos Efthimiou | Experimental | 4´| Greece
·Witchfairy | Cedric Igodt, David Van de Weyer | Animation | 15´| Belgium
·March Hare | Huang Jin Ya | Fiction | 40´| Chinese Taipei
Non-Competition
·Bureaucracy | Victor Picallo | Animation | 5´| Spain
·The melting creatures | Diego Céspedes | Fiction | 17´| France/Chile
·Manta Ray | Anton Bialas | Fiction | 30´|France
·Rest in piece | Antoine Antabi | Animation | 10´| Germany
·Not a long time ago | Marcus Günther | Animation | 4´|Germany
·A Little Beetle Returns | Elene Sebiskveradze | Animation | 4´|Georgia, Norway
·Arlo Sings the Blues | R.J. Sullivan | Music Video | 4´| US
·I'M HERE | Vilma Kartalska | Fiction | 4´| Bulgaria
·Lovely Rita | Ayie Ibrahim | Animation | 5´| Switzerland
·SPELL | Khalil Charif | Documentary, Experimental | 6´| Brazil
·Lete | Duban Pinzon | Animation | 20´| Colombia
·Mothers | Yuzheng Lim | Fiction | 17´| Singapore
·Ahru | Leandro Esteban Martinez | Animation | 5´| Argentina
·Rickety Circus | Zénó Kristóf Mira | Animation | 4´| Hungary
·A Bright Sunny Day | Yupeng He | Fiction | 20´| US/China
·The Egret River | Wan-Ling Liu | Animation | 21´| Chinese Taipei
·Footprints In The Forest | Juhaidah Joemin, Sandra Khoo | Animation | 18´| Malaysia
·Wat zit er in die kist? | Bram Algoed | Animation | 9´| Belgium
·Our Males and Females | Ahmad Alyaseer | Fiction | 11´| Jordan
·Eternity |Lara Salsa | Animation | 3´| Brazil