LIAF 2024: International Competition 4- Being Human (18)

This programme examines some big life moments and asks some pointed questions. The 10 powerful films include a breathtaking take on an author's experience with mescaline, the internal struggles of a group of female gymnasts, a humorous animated road movie documenting Poland during the communist era and a touching mother-daughter relationship.

Independent animation remains a dynamic and evolving art form, showcasing a stunning array of styles, materials, and techniques—from hand-drawn and paint-on-glass to collage, sculpture, cut-outs, puppetry, abstract forms, and innovative CGI. This year's LIAF highlights the most diverse and exciting developments within this vibrant medium.

After sorting through a huge pile of 2,400 entries, we’ve curated a selection of 83 outstanding new films from 31 countries. These films range from humorous and dramatic to bizarre, subtle, frightening, and autobiographical. What they all share is our belief that they represent the best of the best. These 8 international competition programmes showcase a variety of techniques, genres, and styles. This is your annual glimpse into the vibrant world of international indie animation.

Please visit liaf.org.uk for more details

The Last Drop

Kata is a member of the national rhythmic gymnastics team that is exposed to extreme coaching techniques. The pressure on her is building, and the finals are near.

Hungary 2024 Dir: Anna Tőkés 10’40

Misérable Miracle

Inspired by the poems and drawings of Henri Michaux, this film takes animation to the breathtaking limits of language and perception.

Japan, Canada, France 2023 Dir: Ryo Orikasa 8’15

All Futures

The arrival and evolution of humanity on Somnum, a virgin planet where night is eternal.

France, Argentina 2024 Dir: Barbara Cerro 11’55

On Hold

A young woman is stuck in the hold queue of a telephone hotline. A surreal episodic short film about the absurdities of urban life and the frustration of a paralysing standstill.

Switzerland 2024 Dir: Delia Hess 7’10

Surprisingly Beautiful

An unsuspecting artist is moved by a visit from a seemingly banal moth. As events unfold into the final fleeting moments, a hidden marvel is revealed which the artist fights to preserve.

Canada 2024 Dir: Kathryn Jankowski 7’00

Earth Coal

In the countryside of the past, within the mines and factories, these men appear to share similar sorrows. There seems to be something that resonates with us today—whether it’s a genuine connection or merely the simplicity of everyday life.

France 2024 Dir: Bastien Dupriez 12’45

Box

In a regulated system, different figures live isolated from each other in their boxes. They draw, cut, fold and stack the paper boxes on top of each other. As the stacks get higher and higher and collapse, the figures find each other and discover life together.

Switzerland 2024 Dir: Aline Schoch 8’00

It Shouldn't Rain Tomorrow

As she gets older, Oma’s perception begins to change. While her daughter tries to adapt to her new situation, she seems to sink deeper and deeper into herself. Portugal, Germany 2024 Dir: Maria Trigo Teixeira 11’15

Circle

A girl draws a circle on the ground. Passers-by step into it, one by one. Soon the circle is full of people struggling to make room for each other. Once the girl returns and erases the circle, people start heading on their way.

South Korea 2024 Dir: Yumi Joung 6’55

The Car that came back from the Sea

Six friends drive to the Polish Baltic coast and back in a small, beaten-up car. During their trip, their car and their country fall apart.

Poland 2023 Dir: Jadwiga Kowalska 10’45