Two newcomers stood out during this year's Underdox festival in Munich: Sec Rouge – one of 2018's most striking, perfect and beautiful films – and the innovative and delicious 48 minute film Accession.
Two important documentaries that demonstrate the potential of the short film format and highlight the diversity of today's documentary film narratives.
The film industry has turned the spotlight on women's experiences, and any film festival with respect for itself provides gender balance. So did CinéfestOZ, which offered several new movie gems.
Romania is struggling with population decline and emigration. The film scene in the country, on the other hand, is both dynamic and growing, something this year's Transilvania International Film Festival highlighted.
The Edinburgh International Film Festival introduces fresh talent and new voices during this year's festival, while reflecting the cultural diversity Edinburgh has to offer.
Among many outstanding works at this year's Melbourne Film Festival were two short films that distinguished themselves with their courageous, empathetic and clear attitude to LHBTI rights.
The thought-provoking reality of Javisha Patel's short film Circle contrasts sharply with the life of cotton-picking Alabama, as depicted in Maris Curran's short film While I Yet Live.