Italian
Thessaloniki Film Festival unveils international competition roster
Discovering the talents of tomorrow
The Thessaloniki Film Festival has rolled out the red carpet for its International Competition section, a showcase featuring twelve films from emerging directors worldwide. This year’s lineup promises a diverse and compelling array of cinematic voices, spotlighting some of the most anticipated films of the year.
Highlighting the entries
Among the contenders is “Julie Keeps Quiet” (https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/julie-keeps-quiet), Belgium’s official entry for the Oscars. Directed by Leonardo Van Dijl, this poignant drama centers on Julie, a promising tennis talent whose life is upturned by the tragic suicide of a fellow athlete. The film masterfully tackles themes of grief and silence, as Julie grapples with the fallout and her own unspoken traumas.
Poland’s entry, “Under the Volcano” (https://trailers.movieetv.com/search/under-the-volcano) by Damian Kocur, provides a hauntingly beautiful portrayal of a Ukrainian family grappling with their new reality as refugees following Russia’s invasion. The film’s melancholic tone and deep emotional resonance strike a chord, offering a unique perspective on the ongoing conflict.
Award-winning contenders
Several films in this year’s competition have already garnered acclaim at other prestigious festivals. “Arcadia” by Yorgos Zois, winner of the Best Director award at the Sarajevo Film Festival, tells the story of neurologist Katerina and her journey of confronting past traumas while solving a chilling mystery.
“Happy Holidays” by Scandar Copti, which clinched the Best Screenplay award in the Venice Horizons section, interweaves the lives of four characters from different backgrounds. The narrative explores the complexities of gender, culture, and generational conflicts, wrapped in a tapestry of poignant human experiences.
From San Sebastian, “On Falling” by Laura Carreira, follows Aurora, a Portuguese immigrant in Scotland, as she navigates the isolating gig economy while preserving her sense of self in a dehumanizing environment. This introspective drama highlights poignant themes of loneliness and connection, set against a backdrop of an algorithm-driven world.
Nelicia Low’s “Pierce”, which took home the Best Director award at Karlovy Vary, delves into the psyche of Zijie, a young fencer reunited with his estranged brother after years of separation. The film delves into complex family dynamics and questions of identity and trust, offering a gripping narrative.
The festival jury and awards
The festival’s esteemed jury comprises renowned filmmaker and producer Sara Driver, distinguished filmmaker Denis Côté, and accomplished producer Konstantinos Kontovrakis. They will bestow several honors, including the coveted Golden Alexander for Best Feature Film, which comes with a 10,000 euro prize. Additional accolades include the Silver Alexander for Best Direction (5,000 euro), awards for Best Actor and Actress, Best Screenplay, and Best Artistic Achievement, along with up to two special mentions.
In-depth look at other competing films
“Meat” by Dimitris Nakos presents a gripping tale set in rural Greece, where a father’s dilemma following his son’s crime unfolds in an intense and morally complex narrative. The film explores themes of responsibility and justice, presenting a stark portrayal of life in a close-knit community.
“She Loved Blossoms More” by Υannis Veslemes, a Greece-France collaboration, takes viewers on an eccentric journey with three brothers attempting to resurrect their mother with a time machine. The plot’s unique blend of dark comedy and emotional depth creates a compelling exploration of grief and family bonds.
“Edge of Night” by Türker Süer is a Turkish-German thriller set against the backdrop of the failed 2016 coup attempt in Turkey. The film follows Sinan, a lieutenant caught in a night of political chaos, crafting a narrative filled with suspense and existential dread, all underscored by a haunting soundtrack reminiscent of 80s cinema.
“September Says” by Ariane Labed adapts Daisy Johnson’s gothic novel “Sisters”. This film dives deep into the complex relationship of two inseparable sisters, juxtaposing their intense bond with their turbulent adolescence and family dynamics, set against a mysterious and eerie atmosphere.
“To a Land Unknown” by Mahdi Fleifel charts the perilous journey of two friends entangled in the underworld to escape their dead-end lives in Athens. This gripping tale of friendship and desperation offers a raw look at the lengths people will go to for freedom.
“Went Up the Hill” by Samuel Van Grinsven combines psychological drama and ghost story elements, drawing from the director’s childhood memories in New Zealand. It explores the themes of abandonment and reconciliation, wrapped in an intimate and haunting narrative.
Sharing the passion for film
Be sure to keep an eye on the Thessaloniki Film Festival’s website and social media channels for updates on these films and the outcomes of the competition. Engage with the rich tapestry of storytelling presented by these remarkable new filmmakers and discover the voices shaping the future of cinema.
