Out of 501 short film submissions from around the world, 31 short films were screened as part of the competition program at the 11th Star Film Fest. These included 11 animated films, 5 documentaries, 4 experimental films, and 11 fiction films, with 24 of them being student films—aligning with the festival’s mission to provide young filmmakers with a platform to launch their careers.

The competition program also featured four debut films: the fiction film ‘Šutim’ by director Sara Horvatić, the experimental film ‘Inverzija by director Matija Glavač, two animated films created by groups of directors: ‘Paumo D’amour’ and ‘L’Animal Sauce Ail’.

The festival program was entirely dedicated to short films. It opened with a screening of Nebojša Slijepčević’s award-winning and Oscar-nominated short film ‘The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent’. The youngest visitors enjoyed a morning screening of the animated film ‘Garfield’. The festival’s traditional collaboration with Kvizopija tested film knowledge in a movie pub quiz, rewarding the winners. A jam session provided relaxation, while ‘Small Film Talks’ offered an opportunity to engage with young directors from the competition program. Industry professionals also shared insights at a masterclass on international collaboration in film projects, featuring renowned figures such as cinematographer and producer Jonathan Hall (USA), Matt Easton (USA), and producer Anita Juka (Croatia).