South African Stories
South African Stories, new for 2025, features a curated selection of short films that showcase the dynamic storytelling, cultural depth, and social themes shaping contemporary South African cinema. Each film offers a unique lens on life in South Africa, from personal narratives and historical reflections to explorations of identity, resilience, and artistic expression. The following films represent the 2025 official selections in this category:
Breaking Free
SOUTH AFRICA | 21 min | WORLD PREMIERE
Isolated from family and friends by her husband, Lerato vows to free herself from an abusive and toxic environment she finds herself in.
Director: Kopedi Aphane | Writer: Nthabiseng E Letsoela | Producers: Kopedi Aphane | Cast: Matsatsi Kgamedi, Shane Sibanyoni, Tshepo Chotelo as Pule
Love Through The Lens
SOUTH AFRICA | 20 min | US PREMIERE
Two lonely souls accidentally connect during a corona-virus outbreak, they find love in each other, until tragedy strikes and one of them gets infected.
Director: Donna Sibande | Writer: Donna Sibande | Producers: Donna Sibande, Zukiswa Boyce | Cast: Motlatsi Mafatshe, Tumi Modise
Rearview
SOUTH AFRICA | 25 min | WORLD PREMIERE
The fast brutal streets of Johannesburg, not welcoming to strangers, and lives by its own codes.
Director: Chris Djuma | Writer: Chris Djuma | Producers: Sisanda Henna | Cast: Chris Djuma, Tendaiishe Chitima, Phoenix Baaitse, Ndumiso Nkosi
Sent
SOUTH AFRICA | 16 min | WORLD PREMIERE
Gullible Thulile (7) embarks on her first trip to the shop alone, she gets distracted by the cunning Swazi until she can’t find her way home.
Director: Ayanda Halimana | Writer: Ayanda Halimana | Producers: Ayanda Halimana, Sinini Mati | Cast: Avela Cele, Dineo Nxumalo, Zola Mhlongo
Umhlaba Wokhokho (Land Of My Ancestors)
SOUTH AFRICA | 17 min | US PREMIERE
Guided by a prophetic vision, iNkosi Mabaso reclaims his ancestral land and fulfills the meaning of his name, Zwelihle — Beautiful Land — by leading his community in its preservation.
Director: Nondumiso Buthelezi-Masache | Writer: Nondumiso Buthelezi-Masache | Producers: Nondumiso Buthelezi-Masache | Cast: Inkosi Zwelihle Mabaso, Ayanda Cele, Mrs. Zamangwane Mabaso