Not all comedy comes from punchlines - sometimes, it’s found in the gentle quirks of life. This comedy programme brings together a selection of short films that explore the joys, oddities, and ironies of existence, whether through sharp satire, dark humor, or whimsical charm. Some films will have you laughing out loud, while others will simply leave you smiling, capturing life’s tender moments in unexpected ways.

PROGRAM

▶Welcome home, 12’, Amanda Nalbant Nordpoll, Norway • 2023            
When a dysfunctional family gathers for their annual Christmas dinner, oldest son Tormod sees it as an opportunity to introduce his newest relation: a young, beautiful woman named Maria. The dinner puts prejudice to the test, causing unfortunate assumptions to be made.                 

▶Pierre West, 28’, Henrik Larsson, Jakob Arevärn, Sweden • 2024
One day Pierre's TV breaks down, what at first seems like another setback will soon take him down a new road.
Pierre West is a drama about hope and darkness, filmed over 17 years. Through Pierre’s isolated life and his unjust struggle with trauma, the film explores emotions that arise when the light at the end of the tunnel seems so very far away. A character-driven portrayal balancing hardships and inner demons with humor and longing. In an existence without compassion – how long can Pierre endure?

▶Diary of a Photobooth 9’, Elias Koller, Lisa Jödicke, Switzerland • 2024        
It's the first day of spring: Numerous couples come to visit the old photo booth in the park. While capturing memories, they don't hesitate to kiss wildly, eat and sing inside the booth. What nobody knows: Behind the mirrored glass, the Photo Booth Lady lives and works taking photos. She is increasingly annoyed by the tedious visitors and the day doesn't seem to end.

▶Bottle George, 13', Daisuke "Dice" Tsutsumi • Japan • 2024  
A strange creature living in a bottle of alcohol is captured by a little girl, and in her hour of need he must remember who he is and why he is stuck.

▶Bad Actors, 10’, Harry Schleiff, Sidney Schleiff, USA • 2024  
A spirited group of activists inadvertently glue themselves together while preparing for a protest. 

▶The Grievance, 8’, Richie Keen, USA • 2023
After five months of the writer’s strike, comes an idea that hatched on the picket line! What if AI filed a complaint to HR about harassment in a comedy writers room on a sitcom? Starring Rosie O’Donnell & Kevin Pollak, written by Carol Leifer (Hacks, Curb Your Enthusiasm, Seinfeld) & Andy Gordon (Big Bang Theory, Modern Family) & directed by Richie Keen (Always Sunny in Philadelphia)