Held simultaneously in more than 500 locations across six continents, the Manhattan Short Film Festival is a beloved tradition for cinephiles worldwide.
This year’s Manhattan Short brings together ten finalist films representing ten countries: the United States, Ireland, Australia, South Africa, the United Kingdom, Moldova, Russia, Cuba, Georgia, and Mexico. Spanning animation, psychological thriller, dark comedy, and drama, these shorts explore technology and human connection, truth and belief, family, migration, loneliness, superstition, and the uncertainties of starting over. Expect an AI-dominated future sustained by small talk, a missing care worker and a trail of conflicting stories, a Moldovan village brought to a standstill by a black cat, and a pickup-class assignment that takes a startling turn. Advance ticket purchase is recommended as this event often sells out.
The Final Ten are:
-
Small Talk (USA)
-
Mary is Missing (Ireland)
-
Candy Bar (Australia)
-
Vultures (South Africa)
-
Life Goes On (United Kingdom)
-
Hai Davai (Moldova)
-
Pickup (Russia)
-
Norheimsund (Cuba)
-
When the Sea was Calm (Georgia)
-
Never Give Up (Mexico)
Audience as Judge
As always, audiences play a crucial role in the Manhattan Short Film Festival. Every attendee receives a ballot to vote for Best Film and Best Actor. Votes are tallied across all participating venues, with global winners announced in October.
