Focus: Theme is a competition in which we pay special attention to the content of the film and the way in which the authors talk about the problems they present in their films. Short films very quickly respond to current trends and phenomena, and often pave new paths for full-lengths. In this competition can be found many themes that trigger both local and global discussions. We hope that the films we have selected will help us understand different points of view on a complicated reality.
Sideline, dir. Valérie Leroy (France) 2023, 27’, 15+
Marjorie is the doctor of a League two male soccer team. The stakes for tonight’s match are high, as they might move up to Second League. But the coach chose to make an injured footballer play against Marjorie’s will. Marjorie will have to choose between team loyalty and her professional duty. Film presented at Clermont-Ferrand ISFF. Polish premiere.
The Fence, dir. Tomasz Wolski (Poland) 2022, 19’, 15+
Two men move into a horse farm that used to belong to the late father of one of them. Leszek is afraid of horses, Mikolaj is afraid of everything and becomes obsessed with fixing the farm’s broken fence. Film awarded at IFF Febiofest Bratislava.
Big Bang, dir. Carlos Segundo (Brazil) 2022, 14’, 15+
Chico earns his living fixing ovens in Uberlandia, Brazil. His small size helps him in his work, however it also makes him a misfit. He begins to rebel against the social system. Film awarded at Locarno IFF. Polish premiere.
Ruthless, dir. Matthew McGuigan (Ireland) 2021, 13’, 13+
Belfast, early 1970s. British soldiers patrol the streets, and 10-year-old PJ’s only concern is getting money for a new album by his favourite band, T. Rex. Film presented at KFF.
