Shorts National Competition 2

The world still feels small. Even though many of us are moving into some sort of normality – whatever ‘normal’ is nowadays – the endless stretches of isolation and distancing have conspired to make life seem more constrained and fragile. Yet cinema – and the films in the PÖFF Shorts International Competition – reminds us that there is still a whole community of humanity out on a big planet full of wonder. That there are people who – even if we have differences – we share a connection with and whose stories show us that any isolation is ultimately temporary.

While the pandemic is touched upon in the programme, the films here remind us that the everyday struggles of humanity still go on. There are loves to be found and hearts to be broken. There are corporations to fight and death to confront. There are mysteries to solve and joy and laughter to be had.

With a range of styles and genres, from dark drama to fun comedy with a little detour into the realms of magical realism, all the filmmakers in the International Competition not only astound with their talent but become a constant source of reminding us that we are still together, even if we have felt far apart.

Laurence Boyce and Tara Karajica

Till We Meet Again

An animated documentary about an old lady who returns home after sixty years. The film is based on a true story and taking place on a remote island of Baltic sea. All objects in the film are made of materials found on that island, island Ruhnu.

Old Men and the Sea

Led by the mysterious mirage of his once lost ship, a retired sea captain follows the vessel to the very end.

Wednesday

Jaanus spends the last day with his wife Karin at home. In the midst of common eiders, seagulls, fishing nets and summer breeze, they send Karin's soul to the eternity. An everyday life full of bitter sweet love falls with the setting sun into the depths of the sea.

Common Language

The director, who has always been viewed as the black sheep in her family, sets out to the Belarusian town of Vitebsk to talk with her parents about previous grievances and topics that were considered taboo. The effort to find a common language, which runs into stormy emotions and the inability to voice honest opinions, is captured through both personal moments and detailed shots of the protagonists’ faces.

Grandma, meet Mary

The middle-aged perfectionist Virve has done everything so that her mothers 80. birthday party would be traditionally perfect. But with no warning her niece brings a surprise guest - her same sex partner.

How To Be Naked

An experimental creative documentary about the process of opening up to oneself and others. An old actor is trying not to act. How to be yourself?