Online Reporter
Mbulelo Mpofu, [email protected]
THE European Film Festival-Zimbabwe (EuroFilmFestZW) is marking its 10th anniversary in style, with a celebration of women in film and a doubling of the prize money for its prestigious Bioskop Short Film Competition.
This year’s festival promises to be a landmark event, bridging cultures and championing the creative talents of female filmmakers.
Alex Gwaze, Co-Curator and Co-Coordinator of EuroFilmFestZW, stressed the significance of this milestone.
“The European Union is proud to announce the 10th anniversary of the European Film Festival Zimbabwe, a decade-long celebration of cinematic artistry. This year’s festival is especially significant as it honours the theme: Celebrating Women.”
The festival has always showcased the best of European cinema while highlighting the talents of Zimbabwean and African filmmakers. This year, for the first time in several years, the festival will be held in May, coinciding with both Europe Day (May 9th) and Africa Day (May 25th).
These dates hold historical importance, marking the anniversary of the Schuman Declaration, which paved the way for the European Union, and the formation of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), now the African Union (AU).
“This timing provides a perfect opportunity to foster a stronger cultural dialogue between Europe and Africa, right here in Zimbabwe. We invite audiences to celebrate not just cinema, but the arts, music, culture, and food that connect and inspire us all,” Gwaze said.
To recognise and encourage Zimbabwean filmmakers, the prize pool for the Bioskop Competition has been doubled from US$400 to US$800. This increase aims to further inspire creativity and participation, particularly among women.
“While we typically receive 50 to 60 entries each year, we’ve noticed a concerning trend: fewer entries from female filmmakers. The theme ‘Celebrating Women’ is therefore a deliberate and passionate focus to amplify women’s voices and stories,” Gwaze said.
The Bioskop Short Film Competition invites filmmakers to explore the theme “Celebrating Women,” encouraging interpretations ranging from personal stories to historical tributes. Films that depict women challenging norms and inspiring change are particularly welcome.
The Bioskop Short Film Competition offers prizes in the following categories: Best Narrative Short (US$800), Best Documentary Short (US$800), Best Sound Editing (US$400), Best Cinematography (US$400), Best Diaspora Film (US$400), and Best Actor/Actress (US$400).
The competition is open to Zimbabwean residents, and those of Zimbabwean heritage living in any European or African country.
For a decade, the festival has been a launchpad for talented filmmakers, providing a platform to showcase their work and connect with industry professionals. The winning film receives a cash prize and is screened at EuroFilmFestZW.
Last year’s winners included “My Husband Joe” by Derby Bheta (Best Narrative) and “Chasing Levels” by Dumie Manyathela (Best Documentary). The addition of the Best Actor/Actress category last year broadened the festival’s scope and recognised on-screen talent.
Filmmakers have until April 6 to submit their entries via FilmFreeway. The competition welcomes all genres, including animation, documentary, and live-action. Films will be judged on content and creativity, with a focus on innovation, regardless of the filmmaker’s resources.
As EuroFilmFestZW celebrates its tenth anniversary, it aims to highlight women’s contributions, not only in cinema but across all industries.
“This festival is an opportunity to shine a spotlight on the remarkable women who inspire, break barriers, and redefine societal roles, both in front of and behind the camera,” Gwaze said.
This year’s festival also coincides with the ongoing Zimbabwe Film Strategy 2025-2030, launched by the National Arts Council of Zimbabwe (NACZ) last year, which provides a comprehensive analysis of the local film
