A selection of our most honest, truthful short films that shine a light on humanity and remind us that sometimes, whatever life throws at us, we have to just keep swimming!
BONOBO (Switzerland) (18 minutes)
Director Joel Aeschbacher
When the elevator of their public housing breaks down, the fates of three strangers intertwine towards an explosive ending where their limits will be tested.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS: “Expertly handled.”
HOT CHOCOLATE (New Zealand) (17 minutes)
Director David Hay
Maddie, a young student, leaves her 8-year-old sister in the car as she collects some things from her flat - only to discover a tragedy.
WINNER: Best Screenplay
JUDGES’ COMMENTS: “Wow. This was powerful. Incredible acting from the lead took you right there.”
SCRAP (Ireland) (15 minutes)
Director Jamie O’Rourke
Ciaran and Michael meet one summer and become quick friends. When school returns and Michael, a member of the Traveller community, attends the same school as Ciaran for the first time, will they stay friends?
WINNER: Best International Short, Outstanding Lead Performance
JUDGES’ COMMENTS: “The two leads were absolutely wonderful.”
THE VISIT (Germany) (15 minutes)
Director Christian Werner
Klaus works as a Santa Claus in a shopping mall. After an exhausting day, he considers hanging up his Santa boots for good. But then, he gets a call from the children's intensive care unit. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: “Heartbreakingly beautiful.”
A WORTHY MAN (Denmark) (19 minutes)
Director Kristian Håskjold
Erik works nights alone in his bakery and as he becomes more isolated, his only company is a late-night radio program on which he’s desperate to be honoured with “Joker of the Week”. JUDGES’ COMMENTS: “Impeccable performances from an ensemble cast.”
SILENCE (Ireland) (13 minutes)
Director Tristan Heanue
A couple must embark on a journey in the midst of a family crisis and try to heal traumatic wounds that are more than skin deep.
JUDGES’ COMMENTS: “Gently, painfully, slowly heartbreaking. What fabulous performances.”
- £5 per screening. Purchase via the Picturehouse Website, Mobile App, or Box Office
- £30 “Festival Pass” available only at the Box Office, pass redeemable against ten screenings
