Best Of International Shorts 5 – 2026
The 5th of five programmes featuring the Best of International short films in competition.
Be uplifted, inspired and moved by the next generation of the world’s most talented filmmakers in competition for two Academy® qualifying awards; Best Short Live Action & Best Short Animation.
Screening: Thur 29 Jan, 6.30pm | Runtime: 109 mins | Classification: under 15 to be w/adult
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Dog Alone
A dog was abandoned in its own home at the time when my grandfather began to experience his widowhood and I was returning from London, a place where I felt lonelier than ever.
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE- Runtime: 13min
- Year: 2025
- Country: Portugal
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A Sisyphean Task
Follows Lucy, a 23 year old newly qualified teacher, through her first year of teaching. A bright yet unflinching glimpse into the British school system, all set within the walls of Lucy’s classroom.
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE- Runtime: 17min
- Year: 2025
- Country: UK
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Smells Like Kids’ Spirit
Rita’s summer is turned upside down when Brooks, an American musician, visits the ranch where she lives alone with her mother. A former lover, he rekindles their love under the gaze of the child in search of a father. An unsettling fascination is born, combining first stirrings with the mysteries of adulthood.
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE- Runtime: 19min
- Year: 2025
- Country: France
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Vultures
In the volatile moments after a car crash, yet before the authorities arrive, a hot-headed yet desperate tow truck driver fiercely protects his tow. But the situation quickly spirals out of his control.
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE- Runtime: 15min
- Year: 2025
- Country: France, South Africa
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Dancing Sober
Bullied by wife and daughter and mistreated at work, Herman escapes with boozed up dancing alone in the middle of the night…until a drunken dance floor takeover at an office party turns him into a viral sensation and sparks a long overdue rebellion.
WORLD PREMIERE- Runtime: 15min
- Year: 2025
- Country: Sweden
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After What Happened In The Library
In the wake of a terrifying encounter, an overwhelmed drag queen struggles under the weight of public attention. Inspired by a viral true story.
AUSTRALIAN PREMIERE- Runtime: 15min
- Year: 2025
- Country: US
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Pākehā
In 1980s, New Zealand, a young Pākehā mother’s determination to learn Te Reo Māori, exposes her struggles, resilience, and courage, in an inspiring true story of cultural reconciliation.
WORLD PREMIERE- Runtime: 15min
- Year: 2025
- Country: New Zealand