Korça welcomes the 13th International Short Film Festival for five nights of screenings at Majestik Cinema and the Digital Arts Gallery. The programme features 100 films from around the world, covering diverse themes and perspectives. It also includes three programmes for children.

Festival director Gledis Bica said this year’s new features include films created with artificial intelligence. The programme also brings back virtual reality films and expands screenings for children. The Digital Arts Gallery will host animated, experimental, student and artificial intelligence-generated films.

The festival opened with Dua, directed by Blerta Basholli. The film follows a 13-year-old girl in 1990s Prishtina as she experiences adolescence amid ethnic tensions and the threat of war in Kosova. It explores fear, friendship, growing up and young people’s efforts to preserve hope during conflict.

Audience member Anna Shnaidman praised the opening film for its depth and unique perspective. A 12-member jury will select the competition winners. The festival aims to bring filmmakers from around the world to Korça and promote short films and contemporary art.

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