The European Film Festival Zimbabwe and the BIOSKOP! Short Film Competition Zimbabwe offers a unique opportunity for Zimbabwean audiences to experience the best of European cinema and discover local talent. The festival provides a platform for cultural exchange and is a celebration of Zimbabwe’s rich culture and filmmaking heritage.
The European Film Festival Zimbabwe 2023 is calling on all filmmakers from across Zimbabwe and in the diaspora (Europe/Africa) for the fourth edition of the Bioskop Zimbabwe Short Film Competition!
BIOSKOP! Short Film Competition Zimbabwe is an annual event that celebrates the creativity of Zimbabwean filmmakers. The festival showcases short films that explore the unique worldview and experiences of Zimbabweans.
The competition has been a launchpad for many talented filmmakers who have gone on to make a name for themselves in the industry. It allows them to present their vision to a wider audience and make connections with industry professionals. The winning film is awarded a cash prize and is screened at the European Film Festival Zimbabwe.
With the advent of the internet and different ways of connecting with people in different places across the globe, the world has become a global village. This is also an opportunity for individuals to discover new things, careers, promote intercultural dialogue and discover new approaches. How are we using these means to our advantage and connecting with each other?
Can crossing borders also affect our lives negatively, disturb our stability, and result in a shift on how we do things? Crossing borders may also mean starting a new life and losing one’s identity during the process. We also have borders within ourselves, culturally, racially, religiously, or any other relatable borders. There are so many aspects that encompass the theme; therefore, we are curious to find out the filmmakers’ interpretation of the theme – Crossing Borders.
This competition is open to all genres of film (animation, documentary, live action). Films will be judged based on content and creativity, as well as technical aspects. Also taking into consideration that some of you might be working with limited resources. Be innovative, work with what you can and tell us your story.
Guidelines:
•ELIGIBILITY
To be eligible for this competition you must be of Zimbabwean heritage, based, living or working in Zimbabwe or in any European or African country.
Participating filmmakers who have family members organising or judging the competition must advise the Festival Coordinators of their relationship with the of participating jury/judges to avoid conflict of interest. Jury/Judges related to any filmmaker will not be allowed to adjudicate in the category of the said filmmaker. This will ensure that the adjudication process remains transparent and fair. Violation of this Advisory will constitute disqualification of your film from the competition.
● OFFICIAL (JURY) COMPETITION/CATEGORIES/AWARDS/PRIZE MONEY
1. An independent jury panel made up of industry professionals, academics, community and business leaders judge all films in the official competition.
2. The categories/awards are as follows, with the selected winners receiving a cash prize:
Best Narrative Short – Winner USD $400
Best Docu Short – Winner USD $400
Best Sound Editing – Winner USD $200
Best Cinematography – Winner USD $200
Best Diaspora Film – Winner USD $200
•HOW DO I SUBMIT MY FILM?
Click on the Film Freeway BIOSKOP! Zimbabwe Short Film competition link below, click the submit button and fill in the required information. Submissions will be open until 2nd of September 2023 (12pm CAT). NO Entry fee required.
Submission link: https://filmfreeway.com/TheEuropeanFilmFestivalZimbabwe
This year the European Film Festival Zimbabwe will take place 20 – 22 October in Harare and 26 – 28 October in Bulawayo.
