Ado Hasanović, long-time selector of the short film Telemach of the Sarajevo Youth Film Festival and advisor for OFF Pro Film Market, answered quick questions about this year’s OFF Short selection and introduced us to the stories of 24 films. Although OFF Shorts Festival presents the selection only in the second half of June, Ado tells us briefly what we can expect from this year’s selection.
Incidentally, Ado as the selector and program manager of the Short Film Festival will be hosting talks with filmmakers again this year.
What can you tell us about the themes and thematic focuses that you have noticed in the films submitted for this year’s selection of the OFF Shorts program?
A: This year we have a variety of themes that reflect current social, political and cultural trends. Many films have dealt with themes of identity, migration, as well as personal stories about growing up, love and loss.
How does this year’s OFF Shorts stand out compared to previous years? Are there any significant differences or improvements?
A: This year’s OFF Shorts selection program is highlighted by an increased number of entries and a higher quality of production. There is also a remarkable diversity in themes, storytelling and film language, which shows the creativity of young authors.
OFF: What were the key characteristics or elements that you were looking for in the films during the selection process for this year’s OFF Shorts program?
A: During the selection process, I focused on the originality of the story, the acting and the language of the film. I particularly appreciated films that brought a new and innovative approach to storytelling, as well as those that provoked emotion and stimulated thought. However, the most important thing was that the film had clearly defined characters and that the authors successfully told their story in a simple way.
OFF: How would you describe the development of the quality and diversity of short film submissions for this year’s OFF Shorts program? Have you noticed any interesting changes in the approach and creativity of young authors?
A: The quality of applications for this year’s OFF Shorts program has increased significantly. Due to the large number of entries, they decided to select 24 short films from 22 countries. The diversity of themes and styles indicates that young authors are exploring different approaches and forms of expression. We’ve also noticed an increased interest in socially engaged themes and experimental forms, which shows the authors’ desire to address relevant issues and push the boundaries of traditional film narrative.
OFF: How do you see the role of the OFF Shorts program in supporting and promoting young filmmakers in the region and beyond?
A: The OFF Shorts program plays a key role in supporting and promoting young filmmakers. It provides them with a platform to showcase their work to a wider audience, enables networking with industry professionals and interaction with the audience, and offers an opportunity for development through various workshops and discussions. Also, this program helps to affirm young talents and their entry into the professional world of film, giving them visibility and recognition
OFF: What do you hope the audience will take with them after watching OFF Shorts at this year’s Sarajevo Youth Film Festival and what makes this year’s program special?
A: I hope that the audience will take with them a sense of inspiration and a fresh look at the world. We want the films to inspire them to think, to talk and to understand more deeply the subjects that may have been less familiar to them. This year’s program is special because of its diversity and quality, and because it provides an insight into the creative spirit of a new generation of filmmakers.
