South African Stories

2025 selections from the inaugural South African Stories Showcase

Description

A non-competitive showcase of short films from South Africa’s most dynamic new voices. Curated to highlight the nation’s rich cultural perspectives and storytelling traditions, the program offers a rare window into the creativity driving South Africa’s growing film community. Note: Submitting to this showcase does not prevent filmmakers from applying to other categories.

Eligibility Criteria

  1. Open exclusively to entries from South African filmmakers.
  2. Must be directed by a person of African descent.
  3. Maximum 25 minutes, including credits.
  4. Entrants must be 18 years or older.
  5. Films must be in English or include English subtitles.
  6. Eligible films must have completed post-production on or after January 1, 2024.
  7. Films must not have been previously exhibited or licensed for broadcast, cable, or online exhibition prior to the American Black Film Festival (May 27-31, 2026).

Early deadline: November 7
Final deadline: February 10