ENCOUNTERS 2026: SHORTS BLOCK - Thank You For Being

Every year since our founding in 2010, The Bioscope has proudly hosted screenings of The Encounters South African International Documentary Festival. Now celebrating its 28th year as a festival, Encounters returns to The Bioscope once again with screenings at The Bioscope from 5 - 14 June. Tickets are R90. 

SEE THE FULL BIOSCOPE ENCOUNTERS PROGRAM HERE.

NYEMBEZI ZENDODA (PG13)

Dir. Mandlakazi Zilwa | South Africa | 2025 | 12 min.

INYEMBEZI ZENDODA introduces us to artist Lwanda Dlamini, who was brutally attacked and left for dead. Unable to discuss his trauma with his family, his canvases are the place where he finds resolution and healing.

Just Because I’m a Street Kid (A)

Dir. Faith Riyano | South Africa | 2025 | 14 min. 

This heartrending film introduces us to Shorty, the Melville Poet, a talented wordsmith who has published two volumes of poetry while living on the mean streets of Johannesburg.

Dear Sikhonkwane (7-9PG)

Dir. Sihle Hlophe| South Africa | 2025 | 21 min.

A tribute to SiSwati author, Sikhonkwane Mahlalela, whose life of teaching and writing becomes a portrait of language, memory, and cultural preservation through the lives of those he inspired.

One Last Order (10)

Dirs. Lauren De Filippo & Sam Soko | United States | 2026 | 22 min.

After 37 years at a Florida drive-thru, Sighle Williams’ final shift becomes a town-wide celebration of gratitude, turning routine service into a heartfelt collective farewell.