ProToPost International Film Festival — A Showcase of Global Cinema: March 22–24 2024
The ProToPost International Film Festival returns for its much-anticipated edition in 2023/24, offering a diverse and thought-provoking selection of films from around the world. From gripping documentaries to experimental narratives, the festival celebrated the richness and diversity of global cinema.
DOCUMENTARY FILMS & MOVIES
Cubana 455: Chronicle of October 6 — Directed by Enrique Berumen, “Cubana 455” is a compelling documentary that investigates the sabotage of a Cuban civilian airliner in 1976. Through interviews with relatives of the victims, ex-CIA agents, and other key figures, the film sheds light on this tragic event and its enduring impact. With a total runtime of 2 hours and 42 minutes, “Cubana 455” offers a comprehensive exploration of a significant historical incident.
A Festival for the City: Venice 1973 — Directors Alice Russo and Alessio Barbazza take viewers on a journey to Venice in 1973, where a historic demonstration unfolds. Through archival footage and interviews, “A Festival for the City” explores the cultural and political significance of this event, offering a glimpse into a pivotal moment in Italian history.
Blur: El Día Que Me Callé — Filmmaker Víctor Arregui delves into his past as a leftist political activist in Ecuador in “Blur — El Día Que Me Callé.” Through a mix of documentary and personal narrative, the film examines the trauma and silence surrounding a significant event in Arregui’s life, offering a poignant exploration of identity and activism.
Cheers to Iranian Women — Pune Parsafar’s “Cheers to Iranian Women” profiles six influential Iranian women activists living in exile, challenging stereotypes and highlighting their resilience in the face of adversity. Through cinematic storytelling, the film celebrates the voices and contributions of Iranian women on the global stage.
Climate Emergency — Director Robert Menefee’s “Climate Emergency” documents grassroots activism against fossil fuel funding, focusing on protests against TD Bank in New Haven. In just under six minutes, the film captures the urgency and determination of ordinary people fighting for climate justice.
Cost of Living — Andrew Creak’s “Cost of Living” offers a powerful commentary on inequality and excess, contrasting the lavish coronation ceremony of King Charles III with the struggles of working-class individuals in the UK. With a succinct runtime of three minutes, the film delivers a poignant message about social disparity.
Dissent — Chris Boyd’s “Dissent” tells the story of David Cody, a conscientious objector who refused to participate in the American military draft during the 1960s. Through interviews and archival footage, the film explores Cody’s journey to becoming a stateless person, highlighting the personal sacrifices made in the pursuit of one’s values.
Fear Death by Water — Leslie Lawrence and Sophia Simensky’s “Fear Death by Water” blends elements of fantasy and social commentary, offering a surreal exploration of art and ecology. Against the backdrop of ecological crisis, the film weaves a tale of ambition and consequence, challenging viewers to rethink their relationship with the natural world.
Forgotten Song — Director Monika Grzybowska’s “Forgotten Song” transports viewers to post-war Poland, where a young boy searches for accommodation for his grandparents amidst the aftermath of conflict. Through music and storytelling, the film explores themes of love, identity, and resilience.
Full Yellow Jacket — Marc Khanne’s “Full Yellow Jacket” offers a firsthand account of the Yellow Vest movement in France, with 12 individuals sharing their motivations for participating in protests against government policies. Through personal testimonies, the film provides insight into a grassroots movement fueled by discontent and a desire for change.
Goldplay — MJ Politis’s “Goldplay” takes viewers on a thrilling journey to 1907 New Mexico, where a group of revolutionaries plots to rob a train loaded with gold. With shifting alliances and hidden agendas, the film offers a captivating exploration of ambition and betrayal.
How May I Help You — Ella Harmon’s “How May I Help You” presents a series of vignettes based on real phone conversations between call center workers and customers, offering a glimpse into fleeting moments of connection and misunderstanding.
Legend of the Cornpone Kid — Director Charlie Walden’s animated short “Legend of the Cornpone Kid” explores the early life of US President Lyndon B. Johnson, blending comedy and historical fiction to tell a whimsical tale of destiny and transformation.
Mimmo Lucano — Used to Pulling — Not Pushing Back — Costantino Ciervo’s documentary “Mimmo Lucano” offers a portrait of the former mayor of Riace, Italy, known for his innovative approach to migration and asylum. Through interviews and poetic narration, the film explores Lucano’s impact on his community and the challenges he faces in the pursuit of social justice.
Storming Caesars Palace — Hazel Gurland-Pooler’s “Storming Caesars Palace” chronicles the grassroots activism of low-income mothers in Las Vegas during the 1960s and 1970s, highlighting their fight for economic justice and empowerment.
The Man Who Was Thursday — Leslie Lawrence’s collaborative film “The Man Who Was Thursday” reimagines G.K. Chesterton’s novella as a contemporary narrative about conspiracy and resistance, blurring the lines between art and reality.
W — Anna Eriksson’s “W” transports viewers to a dystopian future where Europe is on the brink of collapse, offering a surreal exploration of power and resistance. Europe is a mortally sick woman who is killing time with her Chinese Man Machine. They are at their last post. Outside lies a snow covered wasteland.
With a Gun in Their Hands — Tuero Uncal Omar’s “With a Gun in Their Hands” offers a testimony of resilience and resistance in post-war Spain, highlighting the enduring spirit of those who fought against oppression.
Women Dreaming a Nation — Fernando Fraguela Fosado’s “Women Dreaming a Nation” profiles three Cuban activists, offering a glimpse into their lives and struggles in contemporary Cuba.
ARTS & MULTIMEDIA
ACHTUNG BANDITEN?! [VR] — During the Liberation War from Nazi-Fascism, spanning from September 3, 1943, to May 2, 1945, following the Cassibile armistice between Italy and the Allied forces until the surrender of German troops in the Italian theater of war, approximately 11,400 Italian military personnel, 44,720 partisans, and 9,180 civilians, including children, women, and men, were killed by the retreating German armed forces. This virtual installation by ARTOLDO serves as a symbolic and digital memorial for the Italian victims of Nazi-Fascist reprisals, who have yet to receive proper justice, particularly from the German side. This lack of justice stems from the failure to acknowledge Italian court verdicts beyond the Alps, denying both criminals due process and victims full human justice.
ProToPost Culture
The ProToPost International Film Festival provides a platform for these films to engage with audiences and spark meaningful conversations about pressing social, political, and environmental issues. Through storytelling and cinematic artistry, these filmmakers offer unique perspectives on the world we live in, inviting viewers to reflect, empathize, and take action.
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