In this competition we are giving the voice to directors of documentary films. Each of those productions has a different theme, and they also differ in terms of their approach to the form. However, the authors are connected by their in-depth analysis and broad, nuanced look at the problems. For them, the world is not black and white, but it has all shades of grey.

Exit Through the Cuckoo’s Nest, dir. Nikola Ilić (Switzerland) 2024, 19’, 15+
A soldier’s decision to never to pull a trigger leads him to resistance and ultimately to military prison. Pretending to be mentally ill, he leaves the war zone and returns to Belgrade via the insane asylum on the day NATO begins bombing the entire country.
Film presented at e.g. Visions du Réel IFF. Polish premiere.

Been There, dir. Corina Schwingruber Ilić (Switzerland) 2023, 11’, 13+
Weekend trips, city breaks, a detour into nature or once around the world. Barely a few days off, you’re already gone. Never before has the desire to travel been so widespread and visited places so overloaded. What do we get out of it, other than the picture proof that we have been there?
Film awarded at e.g. Reykjavik IFF and Locarno IFF.

Vyrai, dir. Jakub Stoszek, Magdalena Mistygacz (Poland) 2023, 30’, 15+
The residents of Shestovytsya, liberated from Russian occupation, try to live their old lives. Adults take care of the fields, visit the nearby town, and throw parties. Children play with dogs and prance among numerous ruins. However, the reality of war does not allow itself to be forgotten.
Film awarded at the Krakow Film Festival.

All About Shaochang, dir. Peiyao Xu (China) 2023, 25’, 13+
Born as a replacement for her elder brother Shaochang’s early demise, 22-year-old Peipei seeks to unveil the profile of this most familiar stranger from her family.
Film awarded at the Mulan IFF. European premiere.

Calls, dir. Ming-Wei Chiang (Poland) 2022, 18’, 16+
Center 112 receives numerous phone calls every day. The operators take care of and connect with various outside situations as well as within the office, meanwhile setting boundaries and dealing with their own emotions.
Film awarded at e.g. Cork IFF and Przeźrocza FF.