HELLO SHORTFESTERS!

Founded on the premise of propelling new talent forward, ShortFest has flourished over the past 29 years in ways I can only imagine would make early supporters burst with pride. Not only has it become a beacon of delight for die-hard film enthusiasts, but it has equally had a profound impact in its commitment to nurturing and empowering emerging talent, providing a platform within an industry that can often present barriers. ShortFest offers a fertile ground where the seeds of imagination are sown, providing educational and networking opportunities that serve as stepping stones for aspiring filmmakers to elevate their craft. With every edition, ShortFest’s legacy of inspiration and growth continues to shine brightly, illuminating the path for future generations of visionary storytellers. We’re so grateful that we can be a part of their journeys.

Our dedicated programming team delved into a vast ocean of 6,200 submissions (a record high). Through countless hours of exploration, they carefully screened each and every one of them, arriving at a selection of 299 films. As always, and in true ShortFest fashion, the films range in themes and across genres from thought-provoking dramas, to the silly and hilarious, all the way to the joyously bizarre! One thing is true about the lineup: these carefully chosen works represent the ingenuity and artistic vision of some of the most exciting filmmakers working in short form–a testament to the boundless talent and creativity that thrives within the realm of short films.

This edition, we are thrilled to return to our pre-pandemic offerings. Back are the nightly filmmaker parties and full capacities in theaters. It is a joy to come together in this way and celebrate the enchanting world of short form cinema, honoring the exceptional talents behind the films. And let us not forget the audience who wholeheartedly embraces and cherishes these films, creating a vibrant community of passionate enthusiasts in our great city of Palm Springs.

Finally, I want to welcome our new Chairman, Nachhattar Singh Chandi, and extend a heartfelt thank you to Harold Matzner for his invaluable support as Chairman of the Board over the last 23 years. Harold’s unwavering commitment to the Palm Springs International Film Society and his passionate advocacy for the arts and philanthropy in the Coachella Valley have left an enduring legacy. We are immensely grateful for his contributions and recognize him as a true champion of the arts and a driving force behind the success of ShortFest.

Enjoy ShortFest. We’ll see you in the theater!

Lili Rodriguez Artistic Director