Show Me Shorts Film Festival 2023

Overview

Great things come in small packages at the Show Me Shorts Film Festival each and every year. This fest knows that bigger isn't always better when it comes to movies. Indeed, that's been the event's unofficial motto for almost two decades now, with SMSFF returning in 2023 for its 18th year with 86 flicks on its lineup.

That hefty program is touring Aotearoa throughout October, kicking off in Auckland on Friday, October 6 — with screenings happening around the city, including at The Hollywood Avondale, Matakana Cinemas, The Vic Devonport and more, and the full fest running until Monday, October 30 nationwide.

As for what you'll be seeing, this year's event features 12 themed sections covering everything from tales about crime, a focus on women rocking the world and homegrown fare to two whānau-friendly lineups, a dive into love and a couple of programs on Indonesian filmmaking.

Among the highlights, 11 films will enjoy their world premieres, such as Stella, Ultraveloci from Italy, The Lost Courier from China) and Spook from Norway. Another standout: What We Do in the Shadows star Jonny Brugh making his directorial debut with Proof. He also pops up on-screen in Ministry of Jingle.

In total, 100-plus screenings are on the lineup at more than 35 venues across NZ — and filmmaker talks will get directors chatting in Auckland as well.

Can't make it along? Some films are also screening online.