The 2023 edition of the International Short Film Festival Canton (ISFFC) reached its exciting conclusion on November 4th. The festival, which celebrated the rich diversity of global cinema, presented a fantastic array of short films from around the world, bringing together filmmakers and film enthusiasts in a grand cinematic celebration.

One of the highlights of this year's ISFFC was the announcement of the coveted awards. The Jury Selection Award, recognizing outstanding storytelling and creative execution in a narrative short film, was granted to "Nocturnal Burger." This compelling narrative short was a collaborative effort between the United States and India, directed by Reema Maya. "Nocturnal Burger" left a profound impression on the jury, not only for its exceptional story but also for its clever narrative construction.

In addition, the Audience Choice Award, chosen by festival attendees, was presented to the Swiss animated short film "Think Something Nice," directed by Claudius Gentinetta. This delightful and thought-provoking animated short captured the hearts of festivalgoers, showcasing the power of animation in conveying meaningful and engaging stories.

The 2023 ISFFC featured a diverse lineup of films from 72 countries, with over 1,000 submissions. Many of these films had previously been showcased at esteemed film festivals like Cannes, Berlin, Venice, Sundance, Locarno, and Rotterdam. The festival's curatorial team thoughtfully selected 30 films that aligned with the event's thematic focus and explored contemporary issues with remarkable artistry and creativity.

In the competitive segment of the festival, 10 selected films competed for two distinguished awards: the Jury Selection Award and the Audience Choice Award. The esteemed jurors, including Tammy Tai from Switzerland, Đàm Thị Huyền Trang from Vietnam/China, and Jian Liang from China/Foshan Cultural Entrepreneur Association, played a pivotal role in selecting the best films.

To enhance the festival's inclusivity, ISFFC hosted various events, such as Q&A sessions, panel discussions, and filmmaker workshops. These activities engaged the audience and deepened their understanding of the art of short filmmaking, enriching their overall festival experience.

As the 2023 ISFFC came to a close, it was a moment of appreciation for the collaboration of filmmakers, volunteers, collaborators, and the global audience. Together, they celebrated the power of short films to tell captivating stories. ISFFC's success this year leaves attendees eagerly anticipating the next chapter in the festival's journey. Cheers to the filmmakers and the cinematic artistry that continues to shine at ISFFC!