"I kept thinking of the winding road, and the dialogue that seemed to "rain" on this road, with its love for language and revelation. "You're right, whether I read it or not, I"ll die anyways." - Samar Abulhassan, STFF 2020 Grand Jury Member

"Incredibly efficient visuals and character development in just a few seconds of a location or a few words of dialogue. Beautifully balanced shots, and production design that echoed the curiosity of the inner life of the protagonist." - Tifa Tomb, STFF 2020 Grand Jury Member

BREAK OFF

ÖYKÜ ORHAN | TURKEY | 2020

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Zeliha, mother of two children, is a poor laborer who works in a steel soucepan factory. One day, she is fired as an unexpected moment. While she is attempting to find new job, she also searchs for solution in order to prevent children noticing this situation. A solution created by her, shows deadlock condition as a result of poverty.

"Centered on social commentary yet this film felt immediately close and intimate, the sounds of pots banging our heartbreak along. Main character's acting is deeply moving. Her hands are marked in my mind." - Onur Bakiner, STFF 2020 Grand Jury Member

OCTOPUS

ENGIN ERDEN | TURKEY | 2020

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“Octopus” is a short film that follows 8 and 9 year-old best friends Ece and Efe on a hot, lazy summer day in Aegean seaside. Ece and Efe encounter different adults until they get tired of being pushed around and make a plan to prove themselves. But they are not aware of the price that they will have to pay for it.

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"Effortless feeling of being in the seaside world. Following the kids felt like an actual day in these kids lives. Natural dialogue between kids. Intense Octopus scene was effective in taking us out of the dreamlike state." - STFF 2020 Grand Jury Members