This programme explores the full spectrum of human emotions through 9 captivating films that delve into themes of love, hate, jealousy, sensuality, melancholy, anxiety, confusion, fear, and doubt. Each film is powerful and moving, offering profound insights and striking visuals that resonate with contemporary issues.
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.
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It’s Just a Whole – Bianca Scali, Germany
An unpleasant examination by a meticulous doctor leads to a supposedly inevitable medical intervention that leaves the young patient scarred in body and soul.
2023 10’35 min
In Thousand Petals – Louise Bongartz, Belgium
A young married woman collects the sweet memories of her romance. On closer inspection, she leaves bits of herself behind.
2023 10’05 min
Freeride in C – Edmunds Jansons, Latvia
The serene whiteness of the mountains is interrupted by vibrant winter sports enthusiasts indulging in downhill skiing.
2024 10’10 min
Chicken – Anna Benner, Germany
A woman who is escaping an abusive situation stumbles and finds herself eye to eye with a hen who is in the same situation.
2023 7’55 min
Three Birds – Zarja Menart, Slovenia
A wise birdwoman sends three birds to guide a girl into the dark unknown landscapes of her inner world.
2024 8’15 min
Yuck! – Loic Espuche, France
Yuck! Couples kissing on the mouth are gross. And the worst thing is, you can’t miss them: when people are about to kiss, their lips go all pink and shiny.
2024 13’10 min
This film is not included in our online programme
Stale Smoke – Arthur Jamain, France
The most difficult questions and secrets are invariably the ones within families.
2023 9’30 min
Cold Soup – Marta Monteiro, Portugal/France
A victim of domestic violence looks back at the years when she was married, recalling how difficult it was to stay afloat.
2023 9’50 min
This film is not included in our online programme
Žarko, You will spoil the child! – Veljko Popovic & Milivoj Popovic, Croatia
Memories of a childhood in Split in the 1980s and a moving tribute to the love of a grandpa and grandma who did their best to keep their granddaughter smiling.
2024 13’00 min
Our Funding Partners
With Special Thanks to the Arts Council England
Event supported by Film Hub London, managed by Film London. Proud to be a partner of the BFI Film Audience Network, funded by the National Lottery.
Venue
Opened in March 2022, The Garden Cinema screens repertory seasons and new releases from around the world. Being truly independent, they choose films that are worth seeing, films you’d be happy to see more than once. Films of all genres that are true to life, well made, that left us feeling better or wiser for having seen them. For more information about The Garden Cinema and how to get there, find out more.
Online, The Garden Cinema
