South African short film-making from 1980 to 1995: a thematic exploration

Abstract

ABSTRACT More than 200 short fiction and nonfiction films have been made in South Africa since 1980. The themes of most of these films were initially limited to anti-apartheid texts. Since the late 1980s and early 1990s short filmmakers have also explored themes other than apartheid. The thematic considerations in these short films are briefly discussed in this article and dominant themes are highlighted. The first short films of the 1980s consisted mainly of images against apartheid, but later efforts were lyrical and sensitive portrayals of the destruction of indigenous cultures and forced removals of people due to apartheid laws. Some films also attempted to explore those aspects which were ignored in official history books. In the late 1980s, particularly because of the Weekly Mail Film Festival, new themes were explored in short films, such as gay and lesbian issues and attempts by people to adapt to changes in South Africa. Animation films, including those by William Kentridge, were also made. These short films form part of a new, critical South African film art which emerged in the second half of the 1980s.