Afrinolly Short Film Competition reveals shortlist

An international jury comprising creative experts such as documentary filmmaker Femi Odugbemi (head of the jury), Tunde Kelani, Emem Isong, Franklin Leonard, Obi Emelonye, Mahen Bonetti, Tolu Ogunlesi, Nmachi Jidenma, Juliet Yaa Asante, Carol Kathurima, and Bongiwe Selane had the hard task of selecting 20 of the best shorts and documentaries out of over 200 eligible entries.

The successful films from Canada, Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, USA, UK, and Zimbabwe are now online for the public to view and vote for their favourite films.

Over 500 entries were received from 14 countries in this initial edition of the Short Film Competition. A pre-selection team was responsible for screening out ineligible submissions like music videos, shorts exceeding the stated time-frame and other such entries that were not in compliance with the Afrinolly Short Film Competition rules.

The 20 finalists - ten each from the short film and documentary categories - were selected on the basis of the narrative's imagination and originality, the plot's ability to attract and retain the viewer's attention, clarity of purpose and an overall professional impression. Other criteria for selection included having adept mastery of technical aspects i.e. sound quality, costume, acting, screenplay, editing, lighting and camera work.

To vote for your favourite short film and documentary, log on to www.afrinollyshortfilmcompetition.com/vote

Voting officially commenced on Friday, 15 February and ends on Friday, 8 March 2013. Winners in the Afrinolly Short Film Competition will be announced on Monday, 11 March.

A cash prize of $25 000 goes to the overall winners in both categories, while the first and second runners-up will receive $10 000 and $5 000 respectively. Outstanding participants also have the opportunity to sign online distribution and content deals with Afrinolly.

The Afrinolly Short Film Competition is aimed at digitally showcasing African cinema talent and providing a platform to foster the generation and of African content and make same available online. It is supported by MTN, Goethe Institut, Blackberry, IREP and Google as the social media partner.

Shortlist of finalists

Short Film: