The Aesthetica Short Film Festival is back for 2021 – and this year, there’s a twist.
For the first time ever, Aesthetica are debuting a hybrid festival which will incorporate both in-person and virtual events.
Now in its 11th year, the Aesthetica Short Film Festival (ASFF) will be taking place 2 to 30 November 2021.
With over 300 films being shown throughout the month, there’s also special events to look forward to such as masterclasses, pitching sessions and industry events.
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Masterclasses will feature some industry greats like Maxine Peake and rising stars such as Alice Seabright, who wrote and directed several episodes of Netflix sensation Sex Education.
There will also be inside looks at everything from VFX, animation and cinematography, to editing, screenwriting and virtual reality.
In other words, any film buff’s dream.
This year’s festival has been curated into six conceptual strands:
- How it was, How it is, How it will be?
- Humanity on the Edge
- When Life Gives You Lemons
- Make Lemonade
- Pleased to Meet You
- Mirror, Mirror
- Nobody’s Free Until Everybody is Free
Each ‘strand’ will feature a programme of short films, feature-length narratives, documentaries – and even virtual reality experiences.
This year, diversity is at the heart of the festival – events and screenings will have an emphasis on LGBTQ+ communities, Black Lives Matter, gender and identity.
As part of the 2021 guest programme, ASFF will particularly look at 9/11 and also spotlight works from Ireland, China, Kenya and North Africa.
ASFF – Strands
How it Was, How it Is, How it Will Be
Released online 2 November
There are some moments that define who we are and what we will do next. There are so many things that connect us as human beings, right here and now. These films delve into collective experiences, showing how they bind us together.
Humanity on the Edge
Released online 3 November
From seismic issues like the climate crisis and Covid, there have been a range of multi-faceted and complex crises, which will not magically disappear. These shorts explore a range of timely topics and issues facing us in the 21st century.
When Life Gives You Lemons, Make Lemonade
Released online 4 November
This programme of films takes a lighter look at life, and reminds us to stop, slow down and look around. These films inspire, unite and join as we take a moment to admire the power and resilience of the everyday person.
Pleased to Meet You
Released online 5 November
Platonic, romantic, familial: there are numerous types of relationships that we form over a lifetime. This programme explores interpersonal connections, the contexts with which they are formed and how they define us.
Mirror, Mirror
Released online 6 November
Identity is a complex, multi-faceted and fluid concept. It makes up who we are as individuals. But how do we decide who we are, or perhaps, who we want to be? This programme considers the intricacies of selfhood in the 21st century.
Nobody’s Free Until Everybody’s Free
Released online 7 November
Segregation, racism, marginalisation and discrimination are systemic issues deep-rooted within society, built into many individuals’ daily experiences. Though the conversation has begun, there’s a long way to go to establish true equality.
There will be three ticket options: in person, virtual or hybrid. Tickets start from £25.
For more information, visit the ASFF website where you’ll also find the full festival programme and tickets and passes.