WHAT WENT DOWN IN 2023

2023 FESTIVAL GUIDE

The FAME Shorts Film Festival, held at The Labia Theatre from 7 to 9 September, stood as an extraordinary celebration of authentic African storytelling.

It provided attendees with an immersive journey through narratives that eloquently portrayed the continent’s cultural diversity, rich experiences, and distinctive voices.

The Realness Institute, through meticulous curation, assembled a program featuring 32 exceptional short films. Each film served as a testament to the intricate tapestry of African and African Diaspora storytelling, injecting fresh vitality into the cinematic realm with innovative artistry and distinctive perspectives.

In addition to the African shorts, the festival also showcased five award-winning Canadian shorts, shining a spotlight on Canada as the distinguished guest country of 2023.

More than a mere event, the festival served as a potent platform for amplifying diverse viewpoints, nurturing creativity, and fostering connections within the dynamic creative community. It marked the genesis of a tradition poised to illuminate the brilliance of African filmmaking for generations to come. The enduring impact of these films resonates far and wide, affirming the transcendent power of storytelling.

The FAME Shorts Film Festival resoundingly succeeded, leaving an indelible mark on the cinematic landscape and reaffirming the significance of authentic African storytelling.

Over the three days and seven session, FAME Shorts Festival attracted 650 people.

THEMES EXPLORED IN 2023

LONGING AND BELONGING

A collection of short films intimately probe ‘Longing and Belonging,’ unravelling human yearnings and self-discovery.

Characters navigating identity, isolation and home, evoking personal reflection and skilfully juxtaposing longing’s ache and and belonging’s solace.

LOST IN PLACES

Imagine a leaf torn from its branch before landing on foreign soil. Experience a journey of displacement, where our protagonist navigate along uncharted pathways, each step a tentative exploration of new landscapes, new faces, and new truths.

INDUSTRIAL DREAMS

Embark on a journey through ‘Industrial Dreams,’ where labour, climate, and Earth’s balance are weaved together in cinematic threads.