32nd Annual ShortFest Begins, Manny the Movie Guy Highlights Two Must-See Films

As the 32nd Annual Palm Springs International ShortFest begins today, NBC Palm Springs' Manny the Movie Guy is spotlighting two standout films audiences won't want to miss.

The first is "Honey, My Love, So Sweet," directed by JT Trinidad. Set in urban Manila, the coming-of-age story follows Life, a young genderqueer child navigating questions of identity, family and belonging.

Trinidad says the film was inspired by the idea that childhood heartbreak often shapes our earliest memories. The story unfolds against the backdrop of Manila's historic district and explores themes of resilience, transformation and self-discovery. A particularly emotional scene between Life and his mother has resonated with audiences at film festivals around the world.

The film is screening Friday at 3 p.m. as part of the "Friends Like These" program, coinciding with both Pride Month and Filipino History Month.

Another highly anticipated selection is "Ali", directed by Adnan Al Rajeev. The film recently made history as the first Bangladesh-Philippines co-production and gained international attention after becoming the first Bangladeshi short film selected for official competition at the Cannes Film Festival.

The story focuses on themes of resistance and empowerment, giving voice to marginalized communities. Al Rajeev intentionally avoided using traditional music, instead relying on natural sounds and environmental audio to drive the film's emotional impact.

"Ali" screens Saturday at 2:30 p.m. as part of the "Days of Youth" program.

Together, the two films showcase the global reach and artistic power of short-form storytelling, reinforcing why Palm Springs ShortFest remains one of the premier destinations for discovering emerging voices in cinema.