The Focus: Community competition centers on films that bring us together. They address current social issues from around the world, told through the perspective of individuals – often ordinary people trying to find their place in a complex reality. Here you’ll find intimate dramas, personal documentaries, and heartwarming comedies. The competition screenings are divided into thematic sections, allowing viewers to explore the topics that most frequently engage contemporary short-film creators.

The New Red Car, dir. Yeung Tung (China) 2024, 17’, 15+
An eleven-year-old Yangyang goes to visit his father in his mother’s new red car. The son hides her affair. Seeing his father’s abandoned farm, the boy begins to realize his despair and the uncertain future of his family.
Film presented at e.g. Shanghai IFF. Polish premiere.

Ultraviolet, dir. Veerle De Wilde (Belgium, Netherlands) 2024, 24’, 15+
Mathilde is afraid of meeting her mother, who is staying in a psychiatric hospital. Her relationship with Elias allows her to see herself and her family in a new light.
Film awarded at e.g. Ghent ISFF. Polish premiere.

James, dir. Andrés Rodríguez (Guatemala, Mexico) 2024, 20’, 16+
James, a member of the indigenous community, struggles to preserve his innocence while seeking happiness in the urban jungle. Over time, he becomes convinced that following his own path means destroying others.
Film presented at e.g. Venice IFF. Polish premiere.

Tits, dir. Eivind Landsvik (Norway) 2023, 11’, 15+
Iben wants to take the next step in her relationship with Jonas. Oscar is ashamed of his body and does not enjoy the approval of his peers. After an unpleasant experience on the beach, it turns out that they have more in common than they thought.
Film awarded at e.g. Brest ESFF.