Winners 2024
Up & Coming Competition
MY SWEET LAND | Sareen Hairabedian | US | 2024
The jury selected this exceptional debut for its sensitive portrayal of life in the Republic of Artsakh, a region in Nagorno-Karabakh with a strong Armenian cultural identity. Following 11-year-old Vrej and his family, the film explores the dual nature of home: a source of deep connection and security, but also a burden. Against the backdrop of the ongoing threat from Azerbaijan, the community prepares its children for armed resistance, raising profound questions about freedom and sacrifice.
Jury Statement:
„This film carefully engages with complex living environments full of resistance and contradictions while also impressing as a versatile cinematic experience. Through precise and sensitive camerawork, the filmmaker captures the effects of patriarchal structures and crafts a deeply human portrait of resilience and belonging.
Honorable Mention:
SHOT THE VOICE OF FREEDOM | Zainab Entezar | AF | 2024
Under extremely dangerous conditions, this documentary honors the extraordinary courage of Afghan women protesting against the Taliban’s rule, while also facing patriarchal rejection within their families. Shot the Voice of Freedom is a timely tribute to solidarity and resistance, powerfully indicting repression and systematic misogyny.
International Competition
MAYDEGOL | Sarvnaz Alambeigi | IR | 2023
Jury Statement:
„Maydegol vividly captures the journey of a young Afghan woman in Iran, striving to become a Muay Thai boxer. More than a sporting goal, her dream symbolizes a fight for freedom, identity, and self-determination against the social and political constraints of exile. With clarity and empathy, the film sheds light on the immense challenges faced by refugees and women in repressive environments, offering a compelling portrait of resilience and courage.“
Austrian Competition
DIE GUTEN JAHRE | Reiner Riedler | AT | 2024
Jury Statement:
„With sensitivity and respect, Riedler captures the beauty and challenges of caregiving, while offering a profound insight into aging, trauma, and resilience. The emotional depth and artistic quality of this film stay with you long after the credits roll.“
Expanded Shorts
LEILA | Fariba Haidari | SE | 2024
Jury Statement:
„Leila offers an authentic and unflinching glimpse into the life of a trans teacher and dancer in Afghanistan, navigating acceptance and exclusion. Through its direct and empathetic storytelling, the film sheds light on a hidden side of Afghan society and the relentless search for community under repressive regimes. It left a lasting impression on the jury, raising profound questions about freedom and identity.“
