Shorts Programs

These short films closely examine difficult and dangerous conditions that threaten more than just our collective safety. 

A New Inferno

Directed by Nita Blum-Reddick and Jonathan Pickett 
USA, 16 min.
Georgia premiere

July is Phoenix’s historically hottest month, when record-breaking heat turns deadly — especially for the unhoused. In 2024, 608 people in Maricopa County died from heat-related illness, representing a staggering tenfold increase over the past decade. A New Inferno follows the crew at Arizona’s busiest firehouse as they race to save heatstroke victims using a radical new treatment.

Producers: Nita Blum-Reddick, Jonathan Pickett
Cast: Jason Smith, Jake West, Roy Lewis, Colter Fosdick 

80 is the Most Dangerous Anniversary

Directed by Frank Chi 
USA, 26 min.
World premiere

By sharing their stories together, Howard and Tina warn of the human consequences of nuclear war at a time when nations around the world are beginning to expand their nuclear arsenals. 

Producers: Frank Chi, Lovely Umayam, Ben Chance 
Cast: Howard Kakita and Tina Cordova 

Escalation

Directed by AJ Schnack 
USA, 33 min.
Southeast premiere

A data-driven nonfiction short film documenting the surge of U.S. incidents where law enforcement have targeted journalists since May 25, 2020. 

Producer: Shirley Moyers 
Editor: Jack Livingston 

APART

Directed by Pola Maneli 
USA/South Africa, 19 min.
Georgia premiere

Amid the harsh realities of South African apartheid, two boys — Themba and Joel — form a dangerous friendship. As hate and fear threaten to pull them apart, their bond faces its greatest challenge in the form of a life-saving gesture. Through their eyes, we glimpse a moment of innocence where hope, empathy, and understanding still feel possible. 

Producer: Rich Levy
Writers: Spike Lee, Tim Jones, Jeff Leisawitz, Lubabalo Mtati 
Cast: Louis Booysen, Gerhardt Conradie, Evan Hengst