2025 Manhattan Short Film Festival

This prestigious festival, now in its 28th year, brings together captivating stories from filmmakers across the globe, offering audiences a unique opportunity to view thought-provoking and innovative short films. The Manhattan Short Film Festival is renowned for its diverse lineup, featuring a range of genres, styles, and perspectives that spark conversation and inspire creativity.

The 2025 festival lineup features an eclectic mix of short films, including powerful dramas, heartwarming comedies, and innovative animations. This year’s selection, 10 engrossing short films chosen from thousands of submissions, represents filmmakers from over a dozen countries, tackling themes such as human connection, resilience, and cultural identity. Each film, under 20 minutes in length, delivers a unique perspective, ensuring an engaging and emotionally rich experience for viewers.

Many past shorts have been considered for Academy Awards; two have even won the coveted prize. But this isn’t entirely a passive viewing festival, as audience members will vote for their favorite short film and favorite actor.

As a judge, you will be given a brochure and a voting card so you can vote for your favorite actor and favorite film. Winning filmmakers receive cash and/or filmmaking accessories to further their talent, and they will have their short reviewed by the Academy Award Committee, with the possibility of having their film in the running for an Oscar.

As anyone who has been to this event knows, this is one hot ticket—so be sure to get yours in advance! All seven showings feature the same 10 short films. The program is roughly 2 1/2 hours, including an intermission, but give yourselves extra time to fill out your ballot.

Screenings will take place daily from September 28 through October 2 (except Mon. & Tues.) at The Park Theatre, located at 19 Main Street, Jaffrey, NH. Tickets are priced at $10 for general admission and $9 for seniors, students, children, teachers and veterans. To reserve your seat, call 603-532-8888 or visit theparktheatre.org. Tickets can also be purchased at the Box Office.

Don’t miss this chance to be part of a global cinematic event, where audiences worldwide simultaneously view and vote for their favorite films. Join us at The Park Theatre for an unforgettable celebration of storytelling through the art of short film.