ENCOUNTERS 2025: SHORTS BLOCK - DEATH BY DISCRIMINATION

Every year since our founding in 2010, The Bioscope has proudly hosted screenings of The Encounters South African International Documentary Festival. Now celebrating its 27th year as a festival, Encounters returns to The Bioscope once again with screenings at The Bioscope from 20 - 29 June. Tickets are R90. 

SEE THE FULL BIOSCOPE PROGRAM HERE

SHORTS BLOCK - DEATH BY DISCRIMINATION

The Flow of Resilience (13 PG)

Dir. Pranami Koch | India | 14 min | 2024 

Buried in the mist-laden villages of Northeast India, the discovery of a diary belonging to Monjula, the daughter of an accused witch, unearths the painful stories of women accused of witchcraft in the remote village of Assam. Where whispers turn into accusations, the film retraces these forgotten memories and painful histories, blending diary entries with survivor testimonies and introspective voiceovers to meditate on collective trauma, memory and resilience. Three voices speak: the diary, the survivors and the seeker. Through the filmmaker’s lens, we witness women on trial, punished for their difference, and ostracised by patriarchal systems for their power. As the narrative unfolds, The Flow of Resilience becomes more than just an archive of suffering, but an act of defiance, inviting viewers to confront the open wounds of systemic violence and question the silencing of women.

Remember Fredo? (10 PG)

Dir. Cleveland Hopp | South Africa | 37 min | 2025 

On June 29, 2023, Alfredo April, a beloved drag artist, queer icon and respected member of the Malmesbury community, was tragically murdered near his home. Despite this profound loss, his case remains unsolved, stalled by missing evidence and delayed DNA results, leaving justice indefinitely postponed. Onthou Vi Fredo? delves beyond the case, painting an intimate portrait of Alfredo through the memories of his family, friends, and the Malmesbury community. Affectionately known on stage as ‘Anushka De Patre’, Alfredo’s vibrant spirit endures through his legacy, a beacon of unapologetic self-expression, acceptance and love. Blending archival footage with heartfelt reflections and tributary drag performances, the documentary preserves Alfredo’s memory while honouring his role as a pillar of the queer community. Onthou Vi Fredo? is a poignant exploration of a life lived boldly, a call for justice, and a celebration of resilience and pride within the LGBTQIA+ and trans communities. It is a tribute to Alfredo’s light, and an invitation to carry it forward.

In 2025, The Bioscope celebrates 15 Years Of Cinema. We couldn’t have achieved this without our dedicated staff who look after you every time you visit. We’re lucky enough to have had all of them with us for as long as we can remember, and believe that this loyalty deserves constant support!

For the months of May, June and July, we are running a special BIOSCOPE BIRTHDAY STAFF FUNDRAISER, where in the checkout of your ticket purchase, you can give a donation that will go straight to them - Owen, Silin, Bongi, Portia, Polite, and Swenkie!