The FeKK Short Film Festival is about to begin

The 12th edition of the Ljubljana Short Film Festival, known as FeKK, officially opened today in the capital city of Slovenia. The festival, which runs until August 21, features a diverse lineup of short films, curated sections, professional programs, and social events. This year marks the introduction of a new competition category dedicated to children's short films, with separate divisions for audiences aged five and above, and eight years and older. Organizers announced that 497 entries were received this year, representing a notable increase compared to previous editions. Of these, 287 submissions were directed towards the international competitive program, while 168 were submitted under the Slovenian-focused FeKK SLO section, and 44 entered the newly introduced children’s categories. After careful selection, the jury has chosen 25 films for the international competition, 18 for FeKK SLO, and nine for the children’s categories. The festival will also pay tribute to renowned filmmaker Werner Herzog, whose work continues to influence contemporary cinema. A special retrospective will highlight his contributions to the genre. In addition, the Instant Kult section will feature Spanish-French artist and director Gala Hernandez Lopez, showcasing her unique approach to storytelling through visual art and film. This year’s festival theme, “Nauki,” focuses on the concept of knowledge and its role in shaping society. Curators Lyse Ishimwe, Anne Duffau, and Sanne Jehoul have designed three distinct programs, Nova Ozemlja, Vzpon podivjanega, and Kar preganja deželo, that explore migration, war, colonialism, extractivism, and modern societal crises through varied artistic and political lenses. FeKK continues to attract major international events, including the prestigious Clermont-Ferrand International Short Film Festival. Selected films from the Clermont-Ferrand lineup will be screened during the festival, featuring works curated by French programmer Laurent Crouzeix. These screenings will take place within the framework of two specially themed programs: V očesu sonca and Prah si in v prah se povrneš. Another highlight includes the European Short Film Audience Award (ESFAA) showcase, presenting ten films that have won audience prizes at European short film festivals. This program returns after a brief absence, offering viewers a chance to engage directly with the community’s preferred cinematic choices. The festival will also include a selection of the most acclaimed European short films, reflecting the diversity and quality of current short film production across the continent. Additional programming will focus on the work of the European Film Academy, ensuring that both emerging and established filmmakers receive recognition. Throughout the festival, visitors can expect a wide range of activities, from formal screenings to informal gatherings, all aimed at fostering dialogue and appreciation for the short film medium. With its blend of local and international talent, FeKK remains one of the most anticipated cultural events in Slovenia.