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.

Firebug, dir. Alexandros Papathanasopoulos (Greece) 2023, 24’, 16+
A young father returns to his childhood home to finish a conversation he never started with his deceased dad.
Film presented at e.g. Teheran IFF. Polish premiere.

Tinikling, dir. Nicolas Birkenstock (France) 2023, 21’, 16+
Cherie, a maid from the Philippines, accepts a job at a party organized by a wealthy family. Upon arrival, she learns that she has to take care of the dogs. Unexpectedly, she meets Milo, the son of the lady of the house.
Film presented at the Tous Courts IFF. Polish premiere.

Warszawa, Holandia, dir. Ming-Wei Chiang (Poland) 2023, 17’, 16+
Amid the hustle and bustle of the Bałuty district in Łódź, a young man gets lost in the grind of part-time jobs and masks his true self. Harsh words and rough streets fill his days until one person makes him realize there’s something more.
Film awarded at Gdynia PFF.

Titanic, Suitable Version for Iranian Families, dir. Farnoosh Samadi (France) 2023, 15’, 15+
In the office of Iranian national television, various channel officials discuss the upcoming broadcast of James Cameron’s film “Titanic.” They take turns explaining their views on censoring passages deemed inappropriate for Iranian audiences. Despite moral pressure, one employee discreetly disobeys the imposed norms.
Film presented at the Toronto IFF. Polish premiere.