Who Loves the Sun (Canada) by Arshia Shakiba

*** La Biennale di Venizia, Toronto International Film Festival

In war-torn northern Syria, Who Loves the Sun delves into the world of makeshift oil refineries and the stark realities of life within this post-apocalyptic landscape. Mohammad is a prominent figure in these operations, navigating harsh working conditions and complex local dynamics.

Running time: 00:19:30

The Trees Hold Great Sorrow (Belgium) by Carice van Heusden

What is the meaning of reality when you live in the past? Alula, a 30-year-old woman, is temporarily staying in a house in the midst of a planted forest, while she struggles with a traumatic event from her past. The film presents two worlds: the genuine reality of the forest house and a dark, abstracted limbo that symbolises her trauma world. As Alula tries to regain control of reality with the help of her partner Orpheo, the trauma world becomes an autonomous entity that continues to pester her. 

Running time: 00:32:52

The Dog (Mexico) by Rodolfo Vilchis-Conde

*** Shorts Mexico - Mexico International Short Film Festival, Super Shorts Film Festival London

Dolores is a woman in her thirties who lives with Tristán, her husband who behaves like a dog. One day, while Dolores prepares to have a meeting with another man, Tristán is left alone in the house, following his animalistic routine, taking it to grotesque extremes. They both question their affection for each other, reflecting on their loneliness and dependence on the company of someone with whom they no longer feel a connection.

Running time: 00:21:05

Reep (United States) by Jakub Blank

*** Brussels Independent Film Festival

In the rural South, a young man’s quiet ritual unravels into a harrowing clash of piety and depravity, as hushed tension builds to a shocking, visceral crescendo.

Running time: 00:22:00