Exploring the depths of short films through a cinematic journey of human experiences on love

18 short movies from around the world competet at Anibar’s International Competiton

In the realm of cinema, grand narratives often take center stage, but hidden within the confines of brevity lie captivating tales that pack a punch in mere minutes. Short films, with their ability to distill emotion, creativity, and thought-provoking themes, have long enchanted audiences around the globe. In this captivating exploration, we delve into a collection of distinct short animated films from various corners of the world, each offering a unique perspective on the human experience. 18 such films were screened for four nights at the 14th edition of Anibar – International Animation Festival. Last night the audience had the chance to see the final movies to close this category before the jury makes itls decision. Let’s take a peak on them:

 

Drijf / Director: Levi Stoops / Writer: Levi Stoops / Producer: Annemie Degryse

 

“Drijf” is a Belgian movie released in 2023, directed and written by Levi Stoops and produced by Annemie Degryse. The film is 14 minutes and 59 seconds long. It tells the story of Jeremy and Aurora, who find themselves lost at sea, stranded on small tree bark. As they struggle to understand each other’s desires and boundaries, their fight for survival and the survival of their relationship turns into a bloody mess. The movie explores whether they can grow together and find their way back to shore or if they will lose parts of themselves in the process.

 

Dear Passengers / Director: Max Kulikov / Writer: Max Kulikov / Producer: Max Kulikov, Boris Mashkovtsev

 

“Dear Passengers” is a Russian film from 2023, directed and written by Max Kulikov. Max Kulikov and Boris Mashkovtsev are the producers of the 11-minute movie. The story centers around a train journey on Train number 72 departing from platform two of track one. However, the movie description only provides a cryptic hint: “The train has moved…”. The film seems to hold suspense and intrigue as passengers embark on their mysterious journey.

 

Pentola / Director: Leo Černic / Producer: Chiara Magri

 

“Pentola” is an Italian movie from 2022, directed by Leo Černic and produced by Chiara Magri. The film has a duration of 7 minutes and 12 seconds. The movie delves into the complexities of being a hero and focuses on a character named Pentola, who is referred to as someone’s superhero. The description hints at an emotional journey and explores the concept of heroism and what it means to different people.

 

Sandwich Cat / Director: David Fidalgo / Writer: David Fidalgo / Producer: Gonzalo E. Veloso

 

“Sandwich Cat” is a movie that came to Peja from Spain directed and written by David Fidalgo and produced by Gonzalo E. Veloso. The movie is 10 minutes and 54 seconds long and revolves around a character named David, who lives with his cat named Sandwich Cat. An unexpected visit triggers a crucial reflection on humanity for David. The film seems to explore themes of companionship and introspection.

 

Dies Irae / Director: Collective MARU.

 

“Dies Irae” is a 7-minute and 35-second movie from New Zealand, directed by the collective MARU. The description briefly introduces three groups of characters: two playful angels, seven sinful pigs, and one poor righteous passerby. The movie likely weaves a story around these characters and their interactions, possibly exploring themes of morality and human nature.

Leonora Aliu