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 Boy with White Skin, dir. Simon Panay (France, Senegal) 2024, 15’, 15+
A father takes his son to a gold mine. The miners believe that if the boy with albinism sings a song underground, it will bring them good luck.
Film awarded at e.g. RIIFF and Flickerfest ISFF. Polish premiere.

Everybody’s Doing Fine, dir. Adèle Shaykhulova (France) 2024, 29’, 16+
Elina, a young Russian journalist, is writing an article about a wellness resort in the French Alps. But during her stay, the news from her home country starts to haunt her and she must deal with her own unwellness.
Film presented at e.g. Leiden Shorts.

The Third Dimension of Impact, dir. Valentin Devriès (France) 2024, 13’, 15+
During a company seminar, everyone is supposed to reflect together on the company’s values. The facilitators have prepared engaging exercises, but they did not anticipate the resistance of one of the employees.
Film presented at e.g. NIFF. Polish premiere.

The Man Who Could Not Remain Silent, dir. Nebojša Slijepčević (Croatia) 2024, 14’, 15+
On February 27, 1993, the Belgrade-Bar train is stopped at the Štrpci station by paramilitary forces. As they begin to remove innocent civilians, only one man among the five hundred passengers has the courage to resist.
Oscar nominee. EFA and Palme d’Or winner.

Patience, dir. Valentin Guiod (France, Senegal) 2024, 11’, 16+
Moudou is deeply connected to his family, but he must leave them. In the struggle for love and a better life, he is willing to endure a great deal.
Film awarded at e.g. Berlin MVA and Aesthetica SFF. Polish premiere.