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WINNERS
MONTH OF MARCH
UNTHINKABLE Appetite
LOGLINE - When a high school student can no longer beg for money from her mother, she is forced to get a babysitting job that reveals a deadly secret.
Traitor
With the assistance of an experimental subliminal file, a spy hunter is tasked with tracking the source of a false flag event by pretending to be the Russian defector who had been paid by a rogue American agency to carry out an attack.
Too Little, Too Late
In part 3 of the trilogy, Harry Little is sent back to 1912 to find Ariel and work in the silent film industry.
The Cure: An inside job
Discover the secrets to natural healing and how you can radically transform your health using holistic methods not promoted in mainstream medicine. Awaken your inner healer, you are the cure!
The Crow's Shadow
In a dimly lit room, a man sits alone. Thomas D. Rice, a performer who gave life to a figure the world would never forget. But tonight, he is not alone. An unknown presence challenges him, questioning the legacy of the character he created and the weight of what it has inspired.
Super Villan Coffee
"Supervillain Coffee" is a satirical comedy about Maximum "Chaos" Maxwell, a once-feared supervillain now slinging espresso in a hip downtown coffee shop. Max trades doomsday devices for latte art, grumbling about his past while perfecting milk foam with the precision of a mad scientist. His sidekick in this caffeine-fueled redemption arc is Travis "The Trendsetter" Thompson, ex-villain obsessed with livestreaming his barista life for TikTok clout—complete with hashtags like #VillainToVanilla. The shop’s a circus of chaos and coffee until Captain Righteous, Max’s old heroic nemesis, struts in to rub salt in the wound with smug jabs and a lactose-laden latte order that backfires hilariously. Between plunging toilets and dodging Travis’s phone, Max wrestles with his villainous past and barista present—until a rare moment of wisdom from Travis hints at deeper redemption, only for Max to shrug it off with a grunt. It’s a wild brew of absurdity, heart, and sharp laughs—a tale of evil gone mild, one overpriced coffee at a time.
SILENT MURMUR
In a quiet, sunlit garden, two elderly friends, Helen and Margaret, share an afternoon of tea and memories. Among the laughter and recollections, Helen's demeanor shifts as she begins to tell the story that has haunted her heart for years—the story of her beloved granddaughter, Emily.
Emily, a bright and spirited 24-year-old, seemed to have the world at her feet. Her vivacious smile and infectious enthusiasm masked a secret she kept hidden from even her closest family. When Emily met Ryan, a charming and seemingly perfect boyfriend, her life took a darker turn. Behind closed doors, Ryan's facade crumbled to reveal a controlling and abusive nature that slowly began to consume Emily's spirit.
Helen's voice trembles as she describes the subtle signs of Emily's distress that went unnoticed—the sudden changes in her behavior, the quiet withdrawal from friends, and the faint bruises she always found an excuse for. Helen speaks of her own regrets, the moments she wishes she had asked more questions, the times she saw Emily's forced smiles and convinced herself everything was alright.
Through poignant flashbacks, we see Emily's journey from love to fear, from hope to despair. Despite the toxic relationship, Emily clung to the belief that Ryan could change, that their love could conquer his demons. But the cycle of abuse tightened its grip, leaving her isolated and powerless.
Helen's sorrow deepens as she recounts the fateful night that shattered their lives. Emily's lifeless body was found, a victim of Ryan's final, brutal outburst. The police investigation revealed the extent of the abuse Emily endured, shocking those who knew her.
As Helen finishes her story, tears well in her eyes, and she grasps Margaret's hand. She expresses her determination to ensure Emily's story is heard, to raise awareness about the silent suffering of abuse victims, and to encourage others to speak out and seek help before it's too late.
"Silent Murmur" is a powerful and heartrending narrative that underscores the importance of recognizing the signs of abuse and the devastating consequences of silence. It is a call to action, a plea for empathy, and a reminder that behind every smile, there may be a cry for help.
Director Biography - TUNDE OLOYEDE SOBOWALE
Emily, a bright and spirited 24-year-old, seemed to have the world at her feet. Her vivacious smile and infectious enthusiasm masked a secret she kept hidden from even her closest family. When Emily met Ryan, a charming and seemingly perfect boyfriend, her life took a darker turn. Behind closed doors, Ryan's facade crumbled to reveal a controlling and abusive nature that slowly began to consume Emily's spirit.
Helen's voice trembles as she describes the subtle signs of Emily's distress that went unnoticed—the sudden changes in her behavior, the quiet withdrawal from friends, and the faint bruises she always found an excuse for. Helen speaks of her own regrets, the moments she wishes she had asked more questions, the times she saw Emily's forced smiles and convinced herself everything was alright.
Through poignant flashbacks, we see Emily's journey from love to fear, from hope to despair. Despite the toxic relationship, Emily clung to the belief that Ryan could change, that their love could conquer his demons. But the cycle of abuse tightened its grip, leaving her isolated and powerless.
Helen's sorrow deepens as she recounts the fateful night that shattered their lives. Emily's lifeless body was found, a victim of Ryan's final, brutal outburst. The police investigation revealed the extent of the abuse Emily endured, shocking those who knew her.
As Helen finishes her story, tears well in her eyes, and she grasps Margaret's hand. She expresses her determination to ensure Emily's story is heard, to raise awareness about the silent suffering of abuse victims, and to encourage others to speak out and seek help before it's too late.
"Silent Murmur" is a powerful and heartrending narrative that underscores the importance of recognizing the signs of abuse and the devastating consequences of silence. It is a call to action, a plea for empathy, and a reminder that behind every smile, there may be a cry for help.
Director Biography - TUNDE OLOYEDE SOBOWALE
Shadows of The Past
On his wedding anniversary, a former assassin must find a way to avoid death when a familiar face comes into town with a mission.
Samurat
A wandering samurai's brief encounter in the winter woods.
OUT OF SERVICE
Mr.Lai drives the night shift in his taxi. One night he picks up a motley crew of passengers on a ride share fare. Am unidentified man, A business woman who is working late into the night, a kitchen staff stinking of cooking oil, and a recently jilted young woman.
On their journey from Mong Kok to Tung Chung, a knife falls out of the bag of the kitchen staff. At the same time, the radio tells the “true” story of a serial killer “The Butcher” who was still at large. The tension in the taxi was palatable.
On their journey from Mong Kok to Tung Chung, a knife falls out of the bag of the kitchen staff. At the same time, the radio tells the “true” story of a serial killer “The Butcher” who was still at large. The tension in the taxi was palatable.
MARABU’
In places at the limits of survival, where the only dream is to escape in search of a better world and a better life, towards more industrialized and socially well-off countries, friendship and trust can exist
LORRAINE
Lorraine is a captivating 15-minute documentary showcasing the extraordinary life and career of Lorraine Michael, an influential New Democratic Party (NDP) politician in Canada. Through her dedicated service and the embracing of her Lebanese roots, Michael has marked an indelible impact on her community and Canadian politics.
Interpreting Erik
Award-winner from Canada: How the loss of one family's displaced brother [in Vancouver, BC] taught them not to see homeless people as just the end result; they were once beautiful, talented, creative and loved; they were us. Human. Erik was not nothing; he was everything.
"For fans of 'The Devil And Daniel Johnston', Interpreting Erik [Jury Award Winner at our festival] encapsulates everything you need in a good documentary: a human story, emotive music, beautiful art, and personal loss."
Folkestone Film Festival
United Kingdom
"For fans of 'The Devil And Daniel Johnston', Interpreting Erik [Jury Award Winner at our festival] encapsulates everything you need in a good documentary: a human story, emotive music, beautiful art, and personal loss."
Folkestone Film Festival
United Kingdom
Imagine Peace
Imagine Peace is an anti-war documentary and experimental animation short, painting the light of peace upon the scars of history.
This short film presents a silent dialogue between war and peace, reflecting the universal struggle for human rights, dignity, and freedom. It explores shared emotions and hopes that transcend nations, cultures, and races, reminding us that the yearning for peace and justice is deeply embedded in every heart. These fundamental values have shaped our history and continue to guide humanity toward a more just and compassionate future.
With a restrained approach, this short film portrays the inner scars left by war, focusing on trauma (such as PTSD) and moral dilemmas. Through silent struggles amid turmoil, it explores the endurance and transformation of human nature in the shadow of conflict.
THE STORY BEHIND THE FILM
"Imagine Peace" is a deeply emotional anti-war documentary and experimental animated short film that explores the pain and sorrow caused by conflict, as well as the profound yearning for peace within the human soul. Through a series of symbolic scenes, the film reflects silent grief and inner turmoil, while also depicting the enduring light of love and hope that shines through the darkness.
Living in a region where the shadow of war looms ever-present, the feeling of uncertainty often permeates the daily lives of individuals. The distant thunder of conflict echoes in the background of every decision, and the specter of violence sometimes feels all too close. Yet, even in this atmosphere of heightened tension, the human desire for peace remains strong and unwavering. "Imagine Peace" speaks to this universal longing for peace that transcends borders and is shared by every heart, regardless of where we are in the world.
"Imagine Peace" is a visual manifestation of love, loss, hope, and rebirth—powerfully conveyed without words. It serves as a silent reminder that, no matter where we are, peace is the greatest gift we can give to ourselves and to future generations. The film is a heartfelt call for collective responsibility, urging us to stand united in the face of a world fraught with conflict and environmental crisis.
When peace is absent, everything we hold dear—our dreams, our love, our hope—begins to fade. But peace is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Through this short film, we can only hope to spark reflection and action, not only in the regions most affected by conflict, but throughout the world. Let us unite for a future where peace is not just a dream, but a reality for all.
This short film presents a silent dialogue between war and peace, reflecting the universal struggle for human rights, dignity, and freedom. It explores shared emotions and hopes that transcend nations, cultures, and races, reminding us that the yearning for peace and justice is deeply embedded in every heart. These fundamental values have shaped our history and continue to guide humanity toward a more just and compassionate future.
With a restrained approach, this short film portrays the inner scars left by war, focusing on trauma (such as PTSD) and moral dilemmas. Through silent struggles amid turmoil, it explores the endurance and transformation of human nature in the shadow of conflict.
THE STORY BEHIND THE FILM
"Imagine Peace" is a deeply emotional anti-war documentary and experimental animated short film that explores the pain and sorrow caused by conflict, as well as the profound yearning for peace within the human soul. Through a series of symbolic scenes, the film reflects silent grief and inner turmoil, while also depicting the enduring light of love and hope that shines through the darkness.
Living in a region where the shadow of war looms ever-present, the feeling of uncertainty often permeates the daily lives of individuals. The distant thunder of conflict echoes in the background of every decision, and the specter of violence sometimes feels all too close. Yet, even in this atmosphere of heightened tension, the human desire for peace remains strong and unwavering. "Imagine Peace" speaks to this universal longing for peace that transcends borders and is shared by every heart, regardless of where we are in the world.
"Imagine Peace" is a visual manifestation of love, loss, hope, and rebirth—powerfully conveyed without words. It serves as a silent reminder that, no matter where we are, peace is the greatest gift we can give to ourselves and to future generations. The film is a heartfelt call for collective responsibility, urging us to stand united in the face of a world fraught with conflict and environmental crisis.
When peace is absent, everything we hold dear—our dreams, our love, our hope—begins to fade. But peace is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Through this short film, we can only hope to spark reflection and action, not only in the regions most affected by conflict, but throughout the world. Let us unite for a future where peace is not just a dream, but a reality for all.
I Know What You Did
A teenage boy haunted by guilt is abducted by a mysterious figure seeking revenge for a deadly secret they both share.
40 days
Naguib and his wife Mariam decide to take over a dangerous Journey to the united States starting from central America all the way to the US - Mexico Border facing many tough life threatening obstacles.
Breaking The Rules
LOGLINE:
A former rugby player turned filmmaker obsessively studies the rules of filmmaking at Emerson College- only to question them all. In his final project, he takes a bold, rebellious leap to break convention and prove that sometimes, breaking the rules is the only way to stay honest, and leave a lasting impression. Will he succeed?
SHORT SYNOPSIS:
Breaking the Rules is a 4-minute student essay film created entirely by a one-man crew using just an iPhone 11. Directed and narrated by Saif Kareem, a former U.S. Army translator and rugby player, the film reflects his journey through the rigid expectations of film school and his decision to rebel, challenging not only the rules of filmmaking but the deeper norms that shape how voices are validated in cinema.
A former rugby player turned filmmaker obsessively studies the rules of filmmaking at Emerson College- only to question them all. In his final project, he takes a bold, rebellious leap to break convention and prove that sometimes, breaking the rules is the only way to stay honest, and leave a lasting impression. Will he succeed?
SHORT SYNOPSIS:
Breaking the Rules is a 4-minute student essay film created entirely by a one-man crew using just an iPhone 11. Directed and narrated by Saif Kareem, a former U.S. Army translator and rugby player, the film reflects his journey through the rigid expectations of film school and his decision to rebel, challenging not only the rules of filmmaking but the deeper norms that shape how voices are validated in cinema.
Children of hope
Real story of Katalin Schönléber. This film is a dramatic story set during World War II in Dunaharaszti, Hungary. It centers around two sisters experiencing the heartbreaking events of war and its horrors. The narrative unfolds through personal recollections and realistic scenes, showcasing the strength of family bonds, the struggle for survival, and the trauma brought on by the war.
This story honors the many families who endured the horrors of World War II and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving their stories. Through these narratives, we pay tribute to their sacrifices and learn from history’s lessons, hoping to build a future where such tragedies never happen again.
This story honors the many families who endured the horrors of World War II and serves as a reminder of the importance of preserving their stories. Through these narratives, we pay tribute to their sacrifices and learn from history’s lessons, hoping to build a future where such tragedies never happen again.
As Long As You Want
Two actors, Brad and Liz, rehearse lines one evening and start to connect on a deeper level. But time is ticking as Liz has a train to catch, and a boyfriend waiting on the other end...
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