Aleksa Ristovic, Serbian-born, Maltese-made Filmmaker Wins Best Short Film at New York Film Festival
Maltese-based independent filmmaker Aleksa Ristovic has once again made Malta proud on the international stage, winning third place for Best Short Film for The Chapel Door at the prestigious Hard Faith Film Festival in New York City. Competing against a strong selection of global entries, Ristovic’s achievement highlights the growing presence and quality of Maltese independent cinema.
Ristovic’s filmmaking journey began a decade ago in Malta, and since then he has become the most awarded independent filmmaker currently working on the island. As he often says, he is a “Serbian-born, Maltese-made filmmaker,” whose work has travelled from East to West, winning awards across the United States, Europe, and beyond.
With 140 official selections, numerous nominations, and over 30 awards earned from just five short films, Ristovic has consistently promoted Maltese independent film abroad, often travelling personally to represent the local industry.
The award-winning film puts Malta directly in the spotlight, featuring the emotional story of the Saint Paul’s Shipwreck Chapel. The project showcases outstanding performances from acclaimed Maltese actors Henry Zammit Cordina and Josette Ciappara, continuing Ristovic’s mission to collaborate closely with local talent of the highest calibre.
At the NYC festival, Ristovic also advanced his new partnership with American producer Chris Johnson, who has joined him as Executive Producer on Ristovic’s first feature film, Illusion of Faith, currently in production.
Ristovic’s determination to reach the highest level of independent filmmaking has already attracted international producers and distributors who are expressing strong interest in his work.
The goal is clear: to complete “Illusion of Faith” in time for its planned Hollywood premiere in June 2026. The upcoming feature prominently includes Maltese actors and cinematographers, with Henry Zammit Cordina again leading the cast.
Ristovic dedicated his New York award to his wife Tania and daughter Doroteja, saying that none of this would have been possible without their unwavering support.
The Maltese premiere of The Chapel Door is scheduled for 10 February, the Feast of the Conversion of Saint Paul, and will be broadcast on TVM.
