It is almost time for the 14th Cyprus International Short Film Festival which is set to shake up Limassol’s cultural scene from Saturday to October 18. This year, the festival promises an agenda packed with short films and big adventures – on and off the big screen. Whether it’s the introduction of Cinema Therapy or educational events or an unforgettable freak show, the festival returns renewed through a parallel events agenda.
Cinematherapy: October 13, 5.30-7.30pm, Old Vinegar House
For the first time at the festival, this event merges the art of cinema with psychotherapy. This innovative therapeutic approach utilises film screenings as a medium of fostering self-awareness and problem-solving, drawing on the ancient art of storytelling as an educational resource. By watching a film, viewers connect with the characters and situations that reflect their own experiences, while finding a safe space to explore and process their emotions.
In this year’s Cinematherapy session, the short film Daphne, directed by Tonia Mishiali, will be screened. After the screening, a discussion will follow between the filmmaker and lead actress Niovi Charalambous under the guidance of Denise Nikolakou, integrative psychotherapist and head of the Cinematherapy programme of Drama International Short Film Festival.
Contemporary Mirrors: October 13, 10.30pm, Dusty Monkey
This event will screen short documentaries addressed to filmmakers and film lovers. The late-night screenings reflect the creative freedom to explore, research and experiment, as well as how filmmakers can bring truth to the big screen, encourage change and promoting critical thinking.
Fatherhood: October 15, 10.30pm, Dusty Monkey
Traditional expectations of fatherhood are challenged and redefined. Without set rules or expectations, individuals are free to explore new paths to fatherhood and relationships. This change allows for greater flexibility and creativity in shaping one’s identity as a father and encourages men to explore new ways of being involved in their children’s lives.
TGF – What’s the story? Cyprus, October 14-18, RESET Multifunctional Social Space
An intensive five-day short film development writing workshop led by two experienced tutors aims at guiding eight directors and/or screenwriters from Cyprus and the neighbouring Mediterranean countries in the making of a short film.
Info Session: October 16, 6-7pm, Rialto On Stage
The festival will host an info session with the Greek Film Centre, presenting its short film funding programmes. Presented by the GFC director, Athena Kartalou.
This Uncanny Freak Show: October 16 10.30pm, Dusty Monkey
A dark, noisy, hellish and super uncanny freak show will take over the Limassol bar, curated by Christiana Ioannou, offering a sensational and dazzling night of entertainment. Think green finger-collecting creatures, sexy vampire dances and dog-headed demons.
Info Session – Creative Europe: October 17, 12pm, Dusty Monkey
A presentation of Creative Europe – Media: supporting European film production amid today’s digital environment. Led by Nenad Bogdanovic, Planning & Development Coordinator, Organisation of European Programmes and Cultural Relations, Head of Creative Europe Desk Cyprus.
14th International Short Film Festival of Cyprus
Annual short film festival with national and international competition programme. October 12-18. Rialto Theatre, Limassol. All films are screened in their original language with English and Greek subtitles. www.isffc.com.cy. www.rialto.com.cy
