At the Mpumalanga International Film Festival (MIFF), short films are more than a format—they are a bold artistic statement. We proudly showcase compelling short-form cinema from across South Africa, the African continent, and around the world. All genres are welcome—drama, comedy, experimental, animation, and everything in between—as long as they tell a powerful story in under 40 minutes.
The short film category at MIFF celebrates both rising talent and established voices pushing the boundaries of storytelling. Selected films are screened during our main festival programme and are eligible for several awards, including Best Short Film, Best Director, and Audience Choice. Filmmakers also gain access to Q&A panels, peer networking events, and career-building workshops designed to elevate their craft and connect them with wider industry platforms.
MIFF goes beyond the cinema. We extend the life of short films through community screenings, school activations, and touring showcases across Mpumalanga. We believe short films are not stepping stones—they are standalone works of art that can shift perspectives, spark dialogue, and reflect today’s most pressing realities with urgency and clarity. By submitting to MIFF, filmmakers join a vibrant creative movement that honours authentic voices and visionary ideas.
MIFF Short Films: By the Numbers
- 40 minutes or less: all films in this category meet international short film standards
- Over 100 short films screened at MIFF between 2022 and 2024
- Submissions received from 10+ countries, with a strong focus on African creators
- Short films are eligible for: Best Short Film, Best Director, and Audience Choice Award
- All selected films include Q&A opportunities, panel discussions, and audience feedback sessions
- Featured in school and community programmes and youth screenings across local municipalities
- Some short films have gone on to be screened at international festivals after their MIFF debut
- Participating filmmakers get access to pitch sessions, distribution guidance, and networking mixers