ENCOUNTERS 2025: SHORTS BLOCK - UNMASKING THE SELF

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 - UNMASKING THE SELF

Message from Anonymous (10 PG)

Dir. Loai Galal | Egypt | 13 min | 2023 

According to statistics from the Egyptian Ministry of Health, nearly 300,000 people in Egypt are HIV positive. Set in contemporary Egypt, this poignant documentary follows the hidden lives of three individuals living with HIV, whose diagnosis places them at odds with a deeply conservative society. Faced with systemic stigma, religious shame, and a crumbling healthcare system that often rejects them, they choose silence, concealing their status in fear of judgment, violence and social exile. Despite never revealing their identity, the film offers an intimate portrayal of secrecy, betrayal and resilience hidden behind the voices and fragments of a person we see. As they share their stories, the film becomes a mirror reflecting collective denial, exposing the emotional toll of surviving within societal silence. Message From Anonymous confronts stigma, amplifies truth, and demands a reckoning.

At the Edge of Skin (10 PG)

Dirs. Shirley Cristina Moreira, Joselita Luz, Antônio Bonfim & Members of APALBA - Association of People with Albinism of Bahia | Brazil | 20 min | 2024 

At the Edge of Skin follows the lives of Laiz and Joselito, two individuals with albinism, as they navigate the complexities of daily life. Told through the contrasting perspectives of Laiz, a young girl, and Joselito, an older man, the film offers a shared insight into their lives, meandering between managing their health, responsibilities and social lives, and offering a candid look at the complexities of living with albinism in a society overcome by ignorance and superstition. At the Edge of Skin sparks crucial conversations around the need for systemic support, including access to government healthcare, psychological care and inclusive social programmes. At its core, the film is a poignant reflection on identity, resilience, community and the journey toward acceptance and visibility for those living at the edge of their skins.

Facing Forward (10 PG)

Dir. Eugene Ahlers | South Africa | 24 min | 2024 

Facing Forward is an inspiring story that highlights the strength, resilience and determination of physically challenged individuals as they conquer the waves. Centred around the transformative power of para surfing, a sport that not only facilitates physical healing but also fosters a deep sense of pride and agency, the film follows the build-up to the Para Surf 2024 competition. Following the stories of athletes who have found support, training and community through dedicated surf programmes such as Roxy Davies' initiative in Cape Town and Made for More in Durban, the film demonstrates how sport can serve as a vehicle for confidence, connection and personal growth. As athletes challenge their physical limitations, Facing Forward emphasises the importance of inclusion, sportsmanship and the healing power of embracing one's true potential despite the barriers.

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!