Dag van de Korte Film

The short film is exciting, versatile, and has something to offer everyone. It is also the place where young filmmaking talent makes its entrance. However, short films often receive little time on the big screen. To give more attention to short films in Europe, we have been celebrating the Day of the Short Film for a few years now, on the shortest day of the year, December 21, both in the Netherlands and in various European countries. 

PROGRAM 
The regular program showcases the versatility of short films: from animation and documentary to dance and drama. Seven powerful stories from Dutch creators: moving, imaginative, and sometimes raw. 

Wad is, is nu – Jikke Lesterhuis (2 min) 
On a sandbank in the Wadden Sea, there is a special roadside restaurant. Not for people, but for birds. A light-hearted animation that captures the beauty and fragility of nature in less than two minutes. 

Summer Souvenir – Louka Hoogendijk (19 min) 
Katja is fully enjoying a surfing vacation with her friends until a paragliding session takes an unexpected dark turn. A sensitive coming-of-age film about freedom, friendship, and the aftertaste of a summer that changes everything. 

Teken en zie de wereld – Safi Graauw (11 min) 
Three young Surinamese wanted to contribute to the liberation of the Netherlands during World War II. This short documentary shows how the battlefield forever changed their ideals and lives. Their forgotten story represents that of many others. The film, featuring Daniel Kolf in the lead role, won two awards at Go Short this year: the Audience Award and the Youth Award.

Mr. Sun & Miss Universe – Souffien Melad (7 min) 
When superstar Mr. Sun notices that his shiny golden locks are beginning to fall out, he embarks on a journey through the cosmos where he reevaluates his relationship with impermanence with the help of Miss Universe. Graduation film by Souffien Melad for the Willem de Kooning Academy. 

Paulien – Yücel Kopal (7 min) 
Superfan Paulien wants to get closer to her idol: a folk singer with a big ego and an even larger fanbase. A humorous, awkward portrait featuring standout roles for Isa Hoes and René le Blanc. 

Teugels – Harmen van Liemt & Tatjana Almuli (9 min) 
Five dancers portray the inner world of young male cancer patients. A moving, multidisciplinary film that shows what words sometimes cannot express: the vulnerable space between illness and recovery. 

Close Your Eyes Hind – Amir Zaza (32 min) 
After an attack in Gaza, six-year-old Hind is left alone in a destroyed car with her cousin. Surrounded by tanks, they try to survive. But the emergency services can only come when the army gives permission. Awarded the Golden Calf for Best Short Film at the Netherlands Film Festival.