A Guide To London Short Film Festival 2024 & Exclusive Giveaway

The London Short Film Festival (LSFF) is set to celebrate its 21st edition with an innovative and expansive program, taking place from January 19 to January 28, 2024. The festival, known for showcasing cutting-edge short films from around the world, introduces a groundbreaking project funded by the BFI Audience Projects fund, supported by the National Lottery: LSFF Orbital.

One of the key features of LSFF Orbital is the strategic expansion of screening locations to different corners of the city. This move signifies the festival's commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, bringing the magic of short films to audiences in South, North, and West London, in addition to the iconic venues in East and Central London.

The festival's core venues include the renowned Institute of Contemporary Arts, Curzon Soho, BFI Southbank, and Rio Dalston. These hubs will continue to be the epicenters of cinematic exploration, providing an intimate and immersive experience for film enthusiasts. However, LSFF Orbital seeks to break new ground by venturing into previously unexplored areas of the city.

The primary locations for the festival comprise esteemed venues such as the Institute of Contemporary Arts, Curzon Soho, BFI Southbank, and Rio Dalston. These establishments remain the focal points for cinematic exploration, offering a close-knit and immersive encounter for cinephiles. Yet, LSFF Orbital is poised to pioneer uncharted territories within the city, pushing the boundaries by expanding into areas previously untouched.

Here is a guide through the many amazing venues and films during the festival we would recommend

The Space Belongs to Them

Statues Hardly ever Smile, Directed by Stan Lathan

Delve into the intriguing concept that everything in the cinematic realm is cyclical. What does it signify for films to engage in dialogue across different epochs? If films possessed the ability to converse and interact, what revelations would unfold in these cinematic exchanges? What profound messages would they convey to both each other and to you?

This curated program embarks on a journey through shared experiences that shape us collectively, influencing the narratives we encounter in films. Unifying these films is the central theme of community archives, spanning the realms of the past, present, and future. The exploration extends into the intricate connections within social groups and the resonating similarities that thread through spaces, places, and the people who form our surroundings.

This thought-provoking program has been meticulously curated by Makella Ama and Sena Gikunoo, inviting you to contemplate the cyclical nature of films and the profound conversations they engage in across time.

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I Am Not A Real Person Yet

Pisko the Crab Child is in Love, Directed by Makoto Nagahisa

Embark on a poignant exploration of the inevitable growing pains that define our formative years. The twenties emerge as a transformative decade, riddled with choices and the allure of unexplored possibilities. It's a time when identities slip through our grasp like silk, leaving us navigating the lonely landscape of becoming and self-discovery.

Navigate the intricate narratives of these tales that mirror the uncertainties and discoveries of our own transformative journey through the turbulence of youth. New Wave recommends this introspective and emotionally charged program that resonates with the universal experience of forging one's path in the ever-changing landscape of life.

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In Conversation: Ngozi Onwurah and Film Screening

Join the London Short Film Festival (LSFF) for an exclusive presentation of the latest work from acclaimed director Ngozi Onwurah, followed by an enlightening conversation with the filmmaker herself. "Neighbourhood Alert," inspired by a true story, unfolds the compelling narrative of a Black mother compelled to take extraordinary measures to ensure the safety of her teenage son. The film critically explores and discusses the inherent racism that permeates Middle America, shedding light on pressing societal issues. Notably, the film stars the talented Constance Ejuma, known for her roles in "Black Panther" and "Ben and Ara."

Ngozi Onwurah stands as a vital cinematic voice within the Black diaspora. Hailing from a British-Nigerian background, Onwurah has carved out a unique cinematic vocabulary, encompassing fiction, documentary, formal experimentation, and impactful political commentary. Don't miss this opportunity to engage with the powerful storytelling and thought-provoking commentary of Ngozi Onwurah, as LSFF continues to champion diverse voices and narratives within the cinematic landscape.

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T A P E Collective presents: Unforgotten

Maud, Directed by Natasha Thembiso Ruwona

In an era where our every move leaves a digital trace, New Wave invites you to ponder the extent of control we wield over how we are perceived and remembered. This carefully curated program delves into the enduring nature of our online existence, juxtaposed with the narratives of those who seem forgotten or erased from history. "Unforgotten" becomes an exploration of the intersection between the permanence of our virtual lives and the poignant stories of those overlooked.

The films within this program intricately weave personal storytelling with a mosaic of elements such as archives, montages, interviews, screengrabs, and reenactments. Through these cinematic endeavors, the program breathes life back into forgotten narratives and mourns the things lost to the sands of time. Notably, "Unforgotten" includes the compelling stories of Scottish artist and photographer Maud Sulter and prolific extra Jill Goldston.

New Wave recommends this thought-provoking journey that navigates the complexities of memory in the digital age, encouraging audiences to reflect on the stories we tell, the ones we forget, and the power of cinema to resurrect and lament the fragments of our collective past.

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Minute Shorts presents: Everyone Has a Story to Tell

Dirt in the Diamond, Directed by Renee Maria Osubu

This cinematic journey transcends the conventional confines of the film industry, a daring and unapologetic exploration of a genreless, unlabelled, and unpolished new wave. New Wave recommends this unique film screening event as a testament to a culture that refuses to conform, pulsating with the heartbeat of innovation.

The films showcased in this event encapsulate our collective vision of a cinematic experience that defies categorization, embracing a new wave that is distinctly cultural and revolutionary.

Following the screening, delve into a captivating panel discussion featuring visionary filmmakers Abbey Monteiro, Renee Maria Osubu, Femi Ladi, Abdou Cisse, and Raza Tariq. The panel, hosted by Imana Dione, promises to be a thought-provoking exploration of the creative minds behind Minute Shorts.

In an exciting collaboration, the London Short Film Festival joins forces with Minute Shorts for the first time this year, with founder Janvier Wete joining the LSFF jury. This partnership signifies a commitment to providing LSFF as a London platform for the global and hyper-local talent of Minute Shorts, ensuring that the spirit of innovation continues to thrive.

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Exclusive Industry/Pass Giveaway

The London Short Film Festival runs 19-28 January, and their Industry programme offers a programme of talks, workshops, and networking sessions, aiming to create a space for you to find community, learn the tricks of the trade, and meet new people.

New Wave is offering the chance to win TWO full week Industry Passes for the festival. Just follow @londonshortfilmfest and tag a friend in our post HERE

Visit the ICA during the festival weekdays (Monday-Friday) to visit the LSFF Industry Hub, which is open to all. To attend Industry Events, you’ll need a weekly Industry Pass or a Day Pass.