At last, a cycle of growth has come to an end, alluding to another beginning. Such is the Phoenix’s destiny. Much like this mythical creature, our protagonists in these shorts move from shame to acceptance of their desires or way of existing.

These shorts complete a cycle of growth, in a fierce blaze of hope.

Deep within emerges the first spark. It may be an idea or a dream, but the transformation has been ignited. Imagination is required to enter this state.

This series of shorts deal with ideas of escape, the glimpse of hope that first hits you when it is time to embark on a journey toward change and when you realize there is no turning back.

An ember from the past reignites and soars on the winds of memory to burn into the present. So too our collection of experimental shorts investigates remembrances of things passed through the glow of the present.

Archival images, clips of masterpieces, Google Street View and autobiographical truths are part of the arsenal deployed by many of these emerging and established filmmakers.

As the flames come forth, the atmosphere changes. All are alert for the first blade of fire that brings about an irresistible change.

The characters in these shorts are strong and despite having to push back against social forces which command hiding and secrecy, they prevail and accept who they are, like a simmering conviction. Old rules might have to be broken.

This series of shorts deals with representations of mental health in the MENA/SWANA region and its diaspora.

As the flames gush forth, old boundaries and familiar relationships dissolve. These shorts want to challenge our interactions and disrupt the cold routine of daily life, allowing us to step outside ourselves and take on the world.