Two acclaimed short films from Sisanda Henna Films’ Little Africa series are set to captivate audiences at the FAME Shorts Film Festival, taking place at The Labia Theatre from 4–6 September 2025. Rearview and Belinda have together received nominations in 14 award categories, with winners set to be announced on 3 September during the festival’s opening.
The Little Africa series, developed through the Youth Filmmaker Project, consists of 10 shorts created as part of a year-long writer-director incubation program. Supported by the SABC, NFVF, and KZN Film & Tourism, the series explores the experiences of living as a foreigner in South Africa. The films range across horror, comedy, and drama, offering a distinctly African cinematic perspective.
Rearview, written and directed by Chris Djuma, immerses viewers in a harrowing e-hailing ride through Johannesburg. Meanwhile, Belinda, a dark comedy by Isaac Kasende, follows a group of friends encountering a life-changing and eerie discovery. Belinda premiered at the Joburg Film Festival and has been picked up for screenings at the Hollywood Africa Cinema Connect and the Academy Award®-qualifying HollyShorts Festival this October. Rearview has been screened at the Eurasia Festival and the American Black Film Festival, with plans to feature at the Soul Festival in the UK later this year.
Sisanda Henna, celebrated actor, director, and owner of Sisanda Henna Films, expressed excitement about the festival screenings:
“We’re looking forward to audiences enjoying these films at FAME Shorts Film Festival. We’re also showcasing the Little Africa Anthology at MIP Africa. All the directors grew tremendously over the course of the project, and it’s incredible to see their work gaining recognition globally. Our thanks to NFVF, SABC, KZN Film & Tourism, Eastern Cape Provincial Arts and Culture Council, the DTIC, IDC, and our production partners, Known Associates, for their support.”
FAME Week Shorts Festival director Steven Beckett added:
“This year’s programme demonstrates exceptional talent and diversity from African filmmakers. FAME Week Africa provides a bridge to expose these works to new audiences and global industry professionals.”
Tickets for the FAME Shorts Film Festival are available in blocks of four short films for R50 per block and can be purchased at FAME Shorts Film Festival.
