By T. Marie King, lead shorts programmer
Get ready for the extraordinary cinematic experience of the 2023 Sidewalk Film Festival’s shorts programming. As we celebrate our 25th anniversary, we are going all out to bring you the best of short-form cinema. This year we’ve had a remarkable surge in submissions, resulting in a program of more than 200 captivating short films for your enjoyment.
Our diverse programming covers a wide range of genres, ensuring there’s something for everyone. Here’s just a glance at what you can expect:
- Sports-themed films
- Student productions
- Compelling narratives
- Insightful documentaries
- Family-friendly content
- After Dark selections
- Music videos that will get you grooving
- Enchanting animated creations
- Alabama films
These carefully curated films represent excellence across the entire spectrum of storytelling. And whether you are a dedicated film enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, the 2023 Sidewalk Film Festival shorts programming guarantees an unforgettable cinematic journey. Selecting a block to highlight feels akin to choosing a favorite child, but I must confess that you can’t go wrong with the captivating animation, the powerful and expressive SHOUT films, and the thought-provoking Life & Liberty films.
In the words of fellow shorts programmer Patrick Johnson, “There’s nothing better than a film with a great storyline, except maybe a film about an amazing true story.”
And he is particularly excited about the Black Lens documentary shorts. Here’s what he says you can expect:
“As a long-time enthusiast of documentaries, dating back to the classic “Style Wars” from 1983, I am thrilled to witness our festival’s commitment to truth-telling. Our Black Lens documentary shorts program is a compelling collection of true stories, shining a spotlight on African-American experiences. In this 1.5-hour showcase, viewers can expect to be captivated by thought-provoking narratives like “Garden Ministry” and “The Push,” which are sure to resonate with socially conscious audiences. On the lighter side, “Savi the Cat” and “Slice” offer a fun and refreshing perspective. If you’re seeking motivation and a sense of empowerment to take on any challenge, “The Push” is a must-watch. The Black Lens documentary shorts provide a rich and diverse emotional experience, touching on various aspects of the human condition.”
Whether you’re a film enthusiast or simply looking for a good time, our shorts programming promises to deliver an unforgettable cinematic journey. Join us in celebrating short-form cinema and enjoy the remarkable works of more than 200 talented filmmakers from all corners of the globe.
Check out the short films in this year’s line-up here
Grab your Festival Passes or Tickets here