On the Last Day of Navarathri is a short film which takes viewers on a charming journey into the secret life of divine dolls on the final day of the Navarathri festival. Directed and animated by Aarya Kalyansunder, the film offers a unique perspective by focusing solely on the dolls, providing an intimate and endearing narrative.
The story begins with a dinner conversation between neighbors, shedding light on the challenges of old age and the significance of Navarathri customs like Tamboolam (return gifts) and Sundal (Channa). The film beautifully captures the essence of cultural traditions and holiday celebrations, offering a brief yet insightful glimpse into the lives of the characters.
As the guests depart, the dolls on the Sundal come to life, marking the beginning of the Golu Afterparty. The film skillfully introduces us to the dolls’ personalities, emphasizing camaraderie and a sense of community. The addition of Lakshmi, the newest member, sparks conversations and nostalgic reflections on past encounters with the altar.
Kalyansunder also lends her voice to the character Lakshmi, adding a personal touch to the film. The voice acting is well-executed, capturing the emotions of the characters and enhancing the overall viewing experience.
The narrative takes an unexpected turn when Lakshmi discovers the dolls’ limited annual existence and the fear of being kept in a box forever. A poignant moment ensues, highlighting the theme of imperfection and the acceptance of broken dolls. The film cleverly personifies these inanimate objects, turning them into relatable characters with emotions and concerns.
The animation, done by Kalyansunder, is vibrant and endearing, complementing the film’s overall charm. The decision to focus solely on the dolls’ perspective adds an intimate touch, allowing viewers to empathize with their fears and joys.
The pace of the short is quick, keeping the audience engaged from start to finish. The title, “On the Last Day of Navarathri,” provides a clear and concise expectation of the story, and the film delivers on that promise. The absence of human characters visually enhances the connection with the dolls, making their animated world the focal point.
On the Last Day of Navarathri is a heartwarming and visually appealing short film successfully blending cultural elements, holiday traditions, and the magic of animated storytelling. Aarya Kalyansunder’s direction and animation bring the dolls to life, creating a memorable and enjoyable cinematic experience.
The remarkable, dystopian film HOLE PUNCHED EAR, employs cinematic filmmaking techniques that make the audience long for more from this short narrative. The story begins strong, with heavy rain pouring over a skyscraper that is later revealed to be a prison. Something bad is about to happen, the score and graphics set the stage to the point that if everything turned out okay, it would be a surprise. Fortunately the filmmakers, Alan Yammin and Ben Tull, do not disappoint.
The futuristic setting is apparent within the first minute of the film, when Zorina’s arm displays a timer counting down that is imbedded into her skin. It’s not quite clear how this is possible, but it feels normal within this universe to the point that writing with a pencil and paper feels out of place. This gives the feeling that Zorina is very much out of her element within the prison as she awaits execution for a crime that in not revealed within the film.
This film could easily be turned into a feature film as the narration and visual cues leave the feeling of Faye desiring justice for her sister. It feels as if more is yet to come, while also being complete as a short film. It gives a cinematic feel with fantastic direction and acting. The beginning to the end makes this film intriguing, peaking curiosity with the desire to explore more of this particular universe.
Yammin and Tull were able to tackle the premise of leaving the audience wanting more of this story. The set up of the universe is almost at an expert level, with stellar graphics and wardrobe to contrast the old world that Zorina is from despite the fact that she is about to be executed in this futuristic, dystopian society that is hell-bent on controlling people.
The film tells about the work of doctor Janusz Garlicki of the Polish national football team, which won, among others, the Olympic gold medal during the time of coach Kazimierz Górski.
All devoted fans of Polish football know well that Janusz Garlicki is one of the best Polish orthopedists who, as a sports doctor, participated in all the greatest successes of the Polish national team. It is worth noting, however, that after the end of this activity, he continued his professional career as the director of the Central Sports and Medical Clinic, a doctor at the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine and the director of the Capital Rehabilitation Center in Konstancin.
Review by Parker Jesse Chase:
“Doctor of the Polish Eagles”unveils the remarkable career of Dr. Janusz Garlicki, the unsung hero behind the success of the Polish national football team during the era of coach Kazimierz Górski. This documentary not only celebrates the team’s achievements, including the Olympic gold medal, but also sheds light on the crucial role played by Dr. Garlicki in the midst of their triumphs.
For devoted fans of Polish football, Dr. Janusz Garlicki is no stranger, being recognized as one of the finest orthopedists in the country. The documentary skillfully weaves together his journey as a sports doctor, chronicling his involvement in the pinnacle moments of the Polish national team’s history. From treating injuries to providing invaluable medical insights, Dr. Garlicki emerges as a pivotal figure in the team’s victories.
What sets this documentary apart is its central focus on Dr. Garlicki’s career. Following his active involvement with the national team, he seamlessly transitioned into diverse roles, becoming the director of the Central Sports and Medical Clinic, a doctor at the Military Institute of Aviation Medicine, and the director of the Capital Rehabilitation Center in Konstancin. This expansion of his professional horizons adds depth to the narrative, showcasing Dr. Garlicki’s enduring commitment to sports medicine and healthcare. It is to be said by his comrades, he may never fully retire.
The film finds its niche in exploring the intersection of on-the-spot physical medicine. It successfully captivates the audience with a rich tapestry of interviews, archival footage, and behind-the-scenes glimpses. The documentary becomes more than a mere sports film; it becomes a journey into the heart of Polish football, providing viewers with a rare and intimate perspective from someone who stood on the sidelines.
The director skillfully intertwines Dr. Garlicki’s personal anecdotes with broader insights into the evolution of sports medicine, creating a narrative that is not only informative but also emotionally resonant. The audience gains a profound understanding of the challenges faced by athletes and the crucial role played by medical professionals in ensuring their physical wellbeing. “Doctor of the Polish Eagles” stands as a testament to the collaborative efforts of athletes, coaches, and medical experts, with Dr. Janusz Garlicki rightfully occupying a central place in this narrative. A compelling documentary that transcends its sports genre, offering a captivating exploration of Polish football, the triumphs of the national team, and the indelible mark left by Dr. Janusz Garlicki on the field and in the realm of sports medicine.
In this short comedy film, Australian wilderness expert, Max Thornwhip, takes on the perilous Australian bush with his trusty partner, John Simmons. With danger lurking behind every corner, will Max make it out alive?
G’Day, ya alright? We’re travelin’ to the back of bourke for a bottler! Thornwhip Explorations ain’t crook and writer Michael Hooper is a right dag, mate. This clever parody of Steve Irwin’s adventures looks as if it could air on Animal Planet. Wonderful graphic logo of the show and Director of Photography Lucas Williams gives us that lush feel of being in the Australian outback.
Directed by Chase Korzed who gives us a hilarious rapport between Max Thornwhip, portrayed by Michael Hooper, and his trusty (reluctant) assistant John, played by Sina Tadayon as one adventure after another goes wildly wrong. It’s fair dinkum over the top light-hearted fun.
If we will be facing a devastating human species crises in the future , can we do it better than 2020 ?
Review by Andie Karvelis:
There’s an old saying about the devil’s in the details. You can have something planned so perfectly but the details trip you up and in effect, ruin everything. The filmmakers of Rehearsal grabbed that detail loving devil by the horns and essentially laughed in his face.
Every detail was meticulously executed in Rehearsal, bringing to life an entire world that was seamlessly integrated between computer graphics and live action. The CG team of Miya Shen and Stephen Hu are a powerhouse of talent. But that’s just one part of making a great short film, you need a fantastic script.
That’s where Liane Yang and director Allan Shen come in. They created a story that was believable yet futuristic. When the Tiara virus threatens the entire population on Earth, other planets become the hope of continuing the human race.
So creating an environment on another planet is no easy feat. Clothing, sets, plant life, technology all have to be envisioned and created. Right down to the drinks and the style of your dishware. Director of photography, Vanon Li made certain the entire film had a futuristic look and feel. Plus every actor did an incredible job keeping you on the edge of your seat until a twist ending you don’t see coming.
Hopefully this is just the first in a series of films involving August and the Tiara virus.
A Farmer from a multi-generational Teton Valley Family uses horse power and antique equipment to show the value of long held practices to a world bent on “progress.”
Review by Andie Karvelis:
Farming has been an integral part of our society for hundreds of years. As the times move forward becoming more technologically advanced, some things are better with traditional methods. Hay Day is a unique documentary about a multi-generational Teton Valley family that uses horse power and antique equipment on their farm.
The interviews with each family member and getting an inside look into the productivity of using traditional farming methods was fascinating. Plus it must make it easier on the environment leaving no carbon footprint. Cinematography was very good and I appreciated the variations of using cell phone footage and camera footage to capture this family at work.
This film is educational and wildly interesting. It definitely makes you stop and think about traditional ways being the better option.
Hope. Inspiration. Freedom. All these words conjure powerful feelings and we each define what these things mean to us. What inspires you? What gives you hope? What is your idea of freedom? These three words are the best way to describe Barbette & Fontaine – hope, inspiration and freedom.
Directors John-Carlos Estrada and Zak Zeh did an amazing job with this film. As did Thomas Swafford with his sensational cinematography work. They honored a trailblazer in the entertainment industry, Barbette. She paved the way in the early 1900’s by embracing the freedom to be herself and gave countless others inspiration and hope. One of those individuals is Cynthia Lee Fontaine, a wonderful drag performer. There have been so many parallels in Fontaine’s life to Babette’s and the struggles they both faced and overcame.
This film is so beautifully and artfully done. You can’t help but be inspired, hopeful and to remember that freedom of expression is a form of love… and love always wins.
A typical suburban neighborhood is plunged into a nightmare as an invisible, monstrous force begins picking the neighbors off, one by one. The terror outside the house is no match to the terror that forms inside the house where survival, isolation, and hunger all play tricks of the mind for a man, an expectant wife, and their unborn child. The film begs the big question and the great reveal – What is eating the neighbors?
“Sparrow Street” takes bold strides in the eerie footsteps of Darren Aronofsky’s “Mother!” by transcending unconventional horror tropes and delving into a narrative rich with allegorical depth. Directed by Billy Jack, the film invites audiences to navigate a world where horror extends beyond the supernatural, into the intricacies of human existence in the dark side of nature.
At the heart of the film lies a compelling gluttonous metaphor, encapsulated by the theme of aggressive eating and discussions about the poisoned state of our food supply. The script artfully explores questions about what defines a healthy diet and the reflections of our dietary choices to our very identity. In a suburban neighborhood where the wind becomes an antagonist, forcing people indoors, the movie builds a mysterious universe where something is in the air, leading to the demise of neighbors.
The initial gluttonous perception of food, the sustenance of our bodies, creates a sense of urgency and desperation among the characters. The narrative follows a couple expecting a child, emphasizing the consequences of their gluttonous choices that push them into perilous territory. The film takes a grim turn when heinous situations unfold within the confines of their home, ultimately resulting in the tragic death of the wife and the harrowing delivery of the baby from her corpse.
“Sparrow Street” masterfully portrays the theme of sacrifice when faced with the bleak reality of having nothing left to live for. The protagonist’s journey reflects the resilience to keep going despite overwhelming despair. A pivotal moment of salvation arises as an apple lies at the end of the bed, challenging conventional perceptions of perishables in an apocalyptic setting. The temptation of the apple, stolen by another, foreshadows the characters demise, drawing a poignant parallel to the biblical story of Eve eating the forbidden fruit.
The film expertly weaves a sense of refuge into its narrative, evolving into an anxiety-driven environment years later. The passage of time provides a glimpse into the future for the main characters, now navigating a world where their baby has grown, walks, and receives an education even. The palpable weight of anxiety in the air resonates, mirroring the real-world experiences of a society emerging back into function from a pandemic. “Sparrow Street” subtly encapsulates the emotions and challenges faced collectively without explicitly stating the parallel to our shared community experiences.
“Sparrow Street” is a thought-provoking cinematic exploration transcending the horror genre, blending allegory with suspenseful storytelling. Billy Jack’s direction, coupled with a poignant script, delivers a film that not only chills but also prompts reflection on the complexities of human choices and the enduring effects of societal upheaval.
A showcase of the best new movies and their respective trailers from around the world today.
AUDIENCE AWARD WINNERS:
Best Story: CANEPA´S ROAD BRIDE Best Editing: WAIT Best Direction: THE MEMORY OF MY HEART Dance Trailer: THE TIDES Student Trailer: DEAR FORGIVENESS Music Video Trailer: FEARLESS Thriller/Suspense Trailer: THE BATON ROUGE SERIAL KILLER Crime/Mystery Trailer: THE D WORD Comedy Trailer: OMG! THE CAPTAIN IS HERE Mockumentary Trailer: THE END OF DAYS Sci-Fi Trailer: BLACK HOLE Mythological Trailer: SICK TWISTED FAIRIES Supernatural Trailer: DELUSIONAL STATE Documentary Trailer: DREAM BIG FOR WHAT YOU WANT TO HAPPEN Horror Trailer: ABHORRENT
See the Full Lineup of Films:
THE TIDES, 2min., Directed by Sophia Williams The beginnings of a movement to amplify the under-heard voices of dance. Created and directed by female Cypriot/New Zealander artistic director, Sophia Williams, and choreographed by Leiland Charles on the Artists of Pointeworks.
DEAR FORGIVENESS, 2min., Directed by Lawrence Dumas Jr. A young and successful entrepreneur is about to launch one of the biggest deals of his life. This deal will put him in the top 1% of the business world. He is striving to honor his mother Sunshine Sandison who passed a year ago. Jaden deals with grief and resentment towards his father Brian who left during Sunshine’s sickness. This is hindering Jaden from completely locking in on the upcoming brand launch.
FEARLESS, 30 seconds Directed by Asel Suluu Our project is a celebration of women’s empowerment, uniqueness, and freedom. It revolves around a fearless female persona who boldly embraces her freedom and refuses to be constrained by boundaries, prejudices, or stereotypes. Her belief is simple but powerful: YOU are in charge of your life, do what you love, and be fearless.
THE BATON ROUGE SERIAL KILLER, 3min., DIrected by Bishop Stevens This film unravels the haunting true story of the first African American serial killer, Derrick Todd Lee, whose chilling reign of terror spanned from 1993 to 2003 in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. The film exposes a dark chapter in history where racial bias shields a cunning predator, challenging investigators and the community.
OMG! THE CAPTAIN IS HERE. Part 2, 1min. Directed by Anaëlle Morf, Cristina Müller A TikToker explores a haunted boat. Part 2. anaelle.morf@gmail.com
THE END OF DAYS, 1min., DIrected by Jonathan Christopher Martin-Ives In this mock trailer, a British teenager, gifted with clairvoyancy seeks to warn anyone who will listen to her about an impending alien attack. She falls on deaf ears.
BLACK HOLE, 3min., Directed by Jim Territo A Space Probe reflects on all it’s learned and lost as it drifts into oblivion; a “Space Cowboy Ballad”. Michael-Leon Wooley, vocals. Proof-of concept for a full-length animated feature.
WAIT, 1min., Directed by Jared Jacobsen, Lorena Diaz A man and a woman suddenly find themselves alone in a vacant lot and neither can remember how they got there.
KUINERRAQ, 4min., Directed by Magnus Shipe A young seventh grader explores the heritage of his maternal grandma through this glance at a Yu’pik village and his Native Alaskan roots.
IF HUMANS WERE PLASTIC BOTTLES, 2min., Directed by Muhammad Wafri Zaidani Telling the feelings of a plastic bottle if it was a human.The film becomes a powerful allegory for environmental sustainability, urging viewers to reflect on their own habits and consider the long-term consequences of a throwaway culture. “If humans were plastic bottles” delivers a poignant message about the importance of individual responsibility, collective action, and the need for a more sustainable way of living.
SICK TWISTED FAIRIES, 3min., Directed by Marisa L. Williams Original music from the motion picture “Demons Among Us” by Thorisaz, Joshua Brian Knight, and Ras Shomari; featuring Flying Veda and Morgan as dark fairies.
THE MEMORY OF MY HEART, 2min,. Directed by Marc Martinez In a quest for healing, a bereaved child psychologist uncovers a sinister secret buried within her patient’s new heart, leading to a dramatic crusade for justice amidst a backdrop of unspoken tensions.
GONE WITH THE WINDSHIELD, 2min., Directed by Lawrence Riggins Crash Test Dummies bust out of their car factory to rescue one of their own. From the Award Winning Screenplay.
CANEPA´S ROAD BRIDE, 2min., Directed by Victor LANGUASCO There is a popular legend “The bride of Canepa’s Road” which was spread among the northern towns in Argentina a long time ago, similar to a Latin American legend called “The Moaning”.
Músika, 4min., Directed by Alberto Herrera A delightfully harmonic tale of the origin of music
ROBOT ASTEROID, 1min., Directed by Paul May A trailer for my sci/fi horror screenplay.
DELUSIONAL STATE, 3min., Directed by Trelanda Lowe Following a near-fatal accident at a party, Ryan McDillon must resolve his issues within thirty days according to Angel and Mr. Grim over a work-related bet the two have together. Ryan must make amends among the people in his life. He must maneuver through his dysfunctional family, a pregnant girlfriend, hiding his boyfriend from his girlfriend, dealing with his long-time best “friend” who only wants to keep Ryan in the party world for selfish reasons, navigating painful PTSD memories from his childhood pastor, and battling sobriety.
DREAM BIG FOR WHAT YOU WANT TO HAPPEN, 3min., Directed by Peter Vordenberg The trailer for Dream Big, a documentary about listening rather than talking in order to make progress in our fight against climate change.
ABHORRENT, 1min. Directed by Anthony Buziak A smalltown deputy must discover the source of a recent slew of animal attacks
Festival Reviews 