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.

Beyond is the Day, dir. Damian Kocur (Poland) 2020, 25’, 15+
Pawel is working on a small river ferry close to his village. One day he notices somebody traversing the river by swimming. This person is Mohammad, an illegal immigrant from Palestine. Pawel decides to help him. Film awarded at e.g. Clermont-Ferrand ISFF and Krakow Film Festival.

The Unknown Soldier, dir. Alexis Loukakis (France) 2021, 23’, 16+
November 11, 1918, the very end of World War I. France must honor the memory of its fighters by organizing a symbolic funeral for an unknown soldier. Corporal Solal and his troops are given a mission to roam the battlefields in search of the perfect corpse. Who will prove worthy enough to be a symbol of sacrifice? Polish premiere.

Sideral, dir. Carlos Segundo (Brazil) 2021, 15’, 13+
The launch of Brazil’s first manned space rocket is approaching. This event will change the lives of Marcela and her family in a way that no one has expected. Film presented at e.g. Cannes IFF and the Chicago IFF. Polish premiere.

Aurora, dir. Hyuny-kyung Nova Lee (Republic of Korea) 2021, 30’, 16+ A young woman does her best to make a living in a big city. Despite her efforts, she cannot afford to pay the rent, so she looks for a new apartment. And it may turn out to be more difficult than she expected. European premiere.

Pops, dir. Lewis Rose (United Kingdom) 2021, 20’, 15+
How would you react if your father’s last wish was to send his ashes to a very eccentric place? For siblings, Roz and Elli, there is no consensus on the answer. Film awarded at e.g. Flickers’ Rhode Island IFF .