Balloonfest

Out of Gitmo(en)

The dramatic story of a Gitmo detainee released from the controversial U.S. prison after 14 years. With NPR, a report on the struggle over freeing prisoners once deemed international terrorists. Also, the untold history of the Guantanamo Bay prison.

Staging Success: The PlayhouseSquare Story(en)

As PlayhouseSquare celebrates its first 90 years, “Staging Success: The PlayhouseSquare Story” pays tribute to the people who were instrumental in saving the theaters and shows how the community worked together to create a cultural showplace in the heart of downtown Cleveland. This new documentary, a production of WVIZ/PBS, in collaboration with Think Media Studios, reveals a Cleveland rags-to-riches tale as dramatic as any on Broadway.

Christopher Hitchens: Believe Me, It's Torture(en)

When the renowned author, orator and journalist Christopher Hitchens was challenged to undergo the brutal interrogation technique known as waterboarding, few would've expected he'd accept such a task - he had previously expressed the position that the controversial procedure would not qualify as torture, and most who'd claim such a thing would not have the courage to test their convictions. Yet, in May 2007, Hitchens did just that - and his experience profoundly impacted both himself and his stance on the matter, prompting him to declare he'd been wrong, and later to publish his 2008 article for Vanity Fair's August issue, simply titled 'Believe Me, It's Torture'.

Our League(en)

A community of bowlers outside of Cleveland cope with fundamental change when new owners take over at a landmark alley and a longtime league member comes out as a trans woman.

Dangerous Lies: Unmasking Belle Gibson(en)

The real story of wellness campaigner Belle Gibson's massive worldwide fraud and the famous interview that brought the con artist down.

At the Edge of Russia(pl)

Alexei is a nineteen year old recruit being flown in to perform his military service on the frontier of northern Russia. The base is one of few such remaining outposts on the Arctic Ocean. There are five other seasoned and long serving soldiers stationed here, each with their own personal story or secret that has caused them to retreat from the real world. Their training and breaking in of the new arrival is sometimes humorous, at times harsh. Gradually, they each reveal something of themselves in their daily interactions and private moments as they continue their absurd duty in this snow covered no man's land, hundreds of miles from the nearest human settlement.

Coronavirus(en)

Struggling with fear, tension, and anxiety amid the early stages of the COVID-19 pandemic, a high school student reflects upon what really matters.

Sea Blind, the Price of Shipping Our Stuff(en)

17 of the largest ships emit more sulfur than all the cars on the planet. How is this possible?

Us and Them(en)

Etilaat Roz(ps)

For ten years, the journalists of the Etilaat Roz have been making the most widely circulated daily newspaper in Kabul—entirely transparent, and constantly on the lookout for abuses in society and politics. But what do you do when this work becomes practically impossible? This film follows the team as the city is recaptured by the Taliban.

Brigitte macron, un roman français(fr)

OXI, an Act of Resistance(en)

The popular resistance to the current Greek economic crisis explored and expressed through the ethical and political writings of Ancient Greece.

News Without A Newsroom(en)

As local newsrooms vanish, "News Without a Newsroom" explores journalism's uncertain future in the digital age. Through powerful stories and expert insights, the film examines the collapse of traditional media, the rise of misinformation, and the fight to preserve truth, trust and accountability in an era of disruption.

Information Violence(en)

Looney Lens: Split Skyscrapers(en)

The warping lens used to photograph 10th Avenue seems to puzzle the filmmakers.

Looney Lens: Tenth Avenue, NYC(en)

Black & White, Short Film, United States, Silent.

Twisted Secrets Revealed(en)

Michael Lynn Jr. discusses tips on how to make balloon animals.

The Water Slide(en)

A skewering of local news cadences that travels to Kansas, where Libertarian-leaning politicians fast-track the world’s largest slide.

Print It Black(en)

After the Robb Elementary school shooting in Texas, local Uvalde Leader-News journalists are left to report on the fallout – and on one of their staff members. Reporter Kimberly Rubio rises to national prominence as an advocate for gun reform after her ten-year-old daughter, Lexi, is killed in the shooting. Through the journalists’ reporting, we witness the social fabric of this small Texas town unravel as Kimberly and other victims’ families search for accountability from law enforcement and local leaders. The documentary also shines a light on the critical role of community journalism, at a time when local newspapers are folding rapidly across the country.

All Eyes and Ears(en)

A timely exploration into the complex links between the U.S. and China. Interspersed with remarks from journalists and experts, All Eyes and Ears interweaves the stories of U.S. Ambassador to China Jon Huntsman, his adopted Chinese daughter, Gracie Mei, and blind legal advocate Chen Guangcheng as they find purpose, identity and resolve amid the two nations’ evolving relationship.

NULL(en)

A hitman is tasked to take out ex-mobsters when he suddenly hears a voice that questions his morality.

Nullarbor(en)

An animated road-movie set across the vast and barren landscape of Australia's Nullarbor Plain.

Captain Nulle(lv)

Valdis Nulle is a young and ambitious captain of fishing ship 'Dzintars'. He has his views on fishing methods but the sea makes its own rules. Kolkhoz authorities are forced to include dubious characters in his crew, for example, former captain Bauze and silent alcoholic Juhans. The young captain lacks experience in working with so many fishermen on board. Unexpectedly, pretty engineer Sabīne is ordered to test a new construction fishing net on Nulle's ship and 'production conflict' between her and the captain arises...

(NULL)(xx)

An unknown girl breaks out of her daily grind by undergoing an intense audio-visual trip.

Six Hours: Surviving Typhoon Yolanda(en)

In the middle of a broadcast about Typhoon Yolanda's initial impact, reporter Jiggy Manicad was faced with the reality that he no longer had communication with his station. They were, for all intents and purposes, stranded in Tacloban. With little option, and his crew started the six hour walk to Alto, where the closest broadcast antenna was to be found. Letting the world know what was happening to was a priority, but they were driven by the need to let their families and friends know they were all still alive. Along the way, they encountered residents and victims of the massive typhoon, and with each step it became increasingly clear just how devastating this storm was. This was a storm that was going to change lives.

Projota - AMADMOL (A Milenar Arte de Meter o Louco)(pt)

12(en)

After blowing his professional ballet career, John's only way to redeem himself is to concoct the demise of his former partner, Leah, who he blames for his downfall; he rehearses his salvation in his mind in the way that he rehearses a dance, but being able to break from the routine will be the key to his success.

Cincinnati's Rock 'N Roll Legends(en)

An excellent comprehensive look at all the music that came out of Cincinnati, Ohio. Cincinnati "Rock Legends" "James Brown" "King Records" "Pure Prairie League" "Lemon Pipers" "Syd Nathan" WEBN "Bootsy Collins" "Lonnie Mack" "The Who concert 1979" "Rick Derringer"

Jun Hau Timi(en)

Jun Hau Timi is a romantic tale of unexpected love in the heart of London. Samir, a dashing and fitness-conscious man from Nepal, is searching for the perfect partner. Shristi, a young and beautiful woman from India, is exploring life in the United Kingdom. One day, Samir decides to visit Tower Bridge in London. As he stands admiring the iconic landmark, he notices Shristi walking nearby. Captivated by her beauty, he approaches her and introduces himself. Shristi warmly responds, and the two strike up an instant connection. Eager to share the city's charm, Shristi takes Samir on a tour of London's landmarks, including London Bridge and other picturesque spots. Their friendship deepens as they spend more time together, and a spark of love begins to grow. The story conveys a simple yet profound message: love can happen anytime, anywhere, with someone who feels like destiny

Guru Chela(en)

Guru Chela is a heartfelt short film celebrating the timeless bond between a teacher Guru and student Chela. The story revolves around a young Chela who invites his Guru to attend his Bratabandha ceremony, a significant event in Nepalese culture marking a boy's transition into adulthood and spiritual maturity. The ceremony takes place at the Southall Temple in the United Kingdom, bringing together tradition and diaspora life. The Bratabandha combines choodakarma tonsure and Upanayana samskara, symbolizing a promise vrata and a sacred bond bandhana. It is a moment of reflection on cultural identity and spiritual growth. As the Guru blesses the Chela during the rituals, the film delves into their profound relationship. The Guru, representing the source of wisdom and guidance, imparts teachings on life and spirituality, while the Chela demonstrates respect and gratitude for his mentor's influence.

Florence Fight Club(ru)

Intertwined stories from the gladiator/athletes participating to the Calcio Storico Fiorentino yearly championship.

Auris - Die Frequenz des Todes(de)

Il Magnaccio(it)

Italian 60's drama about a pimp called Il Principino and his violent and troubled relationship with a prostitute called Laura.

Soy médico(es)

Jasmine That Blooms in Autumn(bn)

Love blossoms secretly between two old women at an elderly care home while the specter of patriarchy looms large overhead.

Soulless 2(ru)

Max Andreev thought the best place to start a new life would be at the other end of the world. What he didn't know, is that you can't outrun your past.

Kandasamys: The Baby(en)

The in-laws head to Mauritius for the birth of their grandchild and stir up comic trouble.

Dharmaveer 2(mr)

Explores Anand Dighe's life, tracing his political journey and capturing the essence of his impactful legacy as a prominent figure.

TRAPPED(te)

Trapped between lies and law, where danger lurks behind every shadow. The night’s edge cuts deep, and the clock is racing against survival. Will he escape, or is fate already sealed?

Super Video Bros(pt)