Some films need extra time to develop their themes, to grow and draw us more comprehensively into their worlds. It takes time to think. Reflection tends to work best at a slower tempo. This competition programme is dedicated to showcasing the best of these longer films. 7 longer short films, 7 thoughtful and complex stories.
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.
VENUE & ONLINE TICKETS NOW AVAILABLE!
Wander to Wonder – Nina Gantz, Netherlands/Belgium/France/UK
Mary, Billybud, and Fumbleton star in an 80’s kids’ TV-series called Wander to Wonder. After the creator of the show has died, they are left alone in the studio. Struggling to find enough to eat, they continue to make increasingly strange episodes for their fans.
2023 13’45 min
This film is not included in our online programme
Butterfly – Florence Miailhe, France
In the sea, a man swims. As he does, memories come to the surface. From his early childhood to his life as a man, all his memories are linked to water. Some are happy, some glorious, some traumatic.
2024 15’00 min
Progress Mining – Gabriel Böhmer, UK/Switzerland
Feed the monster, have a cup of tea, and if it’s your first day – don’t pay attention to anything peculiar in Sector 3. Nick shows a new worker around the crumbling Progress Mining Company, while Mary tries to get it shut for repairs.
2024 16’30 min
Shoes and Hooves – Viktória Traub, Hungary
A pedicurist in a small-town, Paula the centaur-girl longs to have human feet. When she meets Arnold the crocodile-man it is love at first sight. Can Paula take the first steps in her search for identity? What will be the price of her attempts to fit in and deny her true self?
2024 15’00 min
The Voice of the Sirens – Gianluigi Toccafondo, France/Italy
At the heart of the sea bed, between rocks and corals, primitive algae undulate, lulled by the muffled and roaring sound of the currents. Up above, on the surface of the water, something extraordinary has just appeared: a voice. So soft and seductive that it is unlike anything we have ever heard before.
2023 19’45 min
This film is not included in our online programme
The Sunset Special 2 – Nicolas Gebbe, Germany
On this exclusive luxury cruise two families meet. While artificial facades dissolve, psychedelic dreamworlds unfold and the reality beyond superficial comfort is unveiled.
2024 18’50 min
Stampfer Dreams – Thomas Renoldner, Austria
This tribute to scientist Simon Stampfer features animated sequences inspired by his Optical Magic Discs, first showcased in Vienna in 1833. It presents 3 dreams that capture young Simon’s visions of future advancements in technology and art, spanning from the 19th century to the present day.
2024 11’50 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
