International Competition 8

The cohesion of a community can be unshakable, no matter what dangers or crises may arise. The loving bond between a mother and her daughter is no different. Yet sometimes we prefer the company of animals. They don’t hurt our feelings, after all.

Brasas – Director: Baltazar Mello · Belgium · 22 min · Portuguese (OmeU)

The secluded region near the village of Lageosa in the heart of Portugal was ravaged by wildfire in 2024. But environmental destruction isn’t the only problem the community faces. Young people are moving away in ever greater numbers. Life must go on somehow. But for how much longer?

Pankaja – Director: Anooya Swamy · USA, India · 14 min · Kannada (OmeU)

Three days ago, Pankaja’s husband failed to come home from work. In search of him, this young mother and her daughter struggle to navigate the murky bureaucracy and crowded streets of a major city in India.

I’m Looking for Mr. Laser – Director: Laura Boráros · Czech Republic · 6 min · Czech (OmeU)

What would you do if you came across a video in which the laws of physics are convincingly overcome? A zany animated film about the search for the mysterious Mr. Laser, who may or may not exist.

Family Sunday – Director: Gerardo del Razo · Mexico · 17 min · Spanish (OmeU)

On the outskirts of Mexico City, “sicarios” — members of local cartels — extort protection money from residents. When the gangsters give a desperate shop owner an ultimatum, the situation escalates. The action is masterfully staged in a single take.

Crazy for You – Director: Greta Díaz Moreau · USA, Spain · 19 min · Spanish (OmeU)

Sixteen-year-old Alma watches the bullfighters warm up; she’s particularly taken with one of them. But just as they’re starting to grow closer, he suddenly rebuffs her. At least Alma still has the bull whom she considers a friend.