Taoba 2024 came to a thrilling conclusion on September 26, with the announcement of the festival’s winners. After a week of incredible films, masterclasses, and discussions, the young jury selected their favorite films across several categories, recognizing the best of both short and feature-length films. Here are the winning films:
International Short Film Competition for Young Audiences: The Wake Up Chirp (Sweden, 2023)
Director: Kaan Orgunmat
This heartwarming Swedish short film tells the story of a 10-year-old boy who, while spending time at his grandfather’s oppressive summerhouse, discovers that the crickets around the house communicate with him in morse code. As he decodes their messages, the boy embarks on a journey of self-discovery and independence, finding the strength to break free from the emotional suffocation around him. The film captures the beauty of personal growth through a unique and imaginative lens.
International Feature Film Competition for Young Audiences: Scrapper (United Kingdom, 2023)
Director: Charlotte Regan
Scrapper follows Georgie, a 12-year-old girl who lives alone in her London flat after her mother’s death. Creating a magical world for herself, Georgie’s reality is disrupted when her estranged father, Jason, returns. As they try to adjust to their new circumstances, both father and daughter navigate their complicated relationship and discover they still have much to learn about growing up. Scrapper is an emotional journey about resilience, healing, and the challenges of family bonds.
Best Feature Film Competition: C’è Ancora Domani (Italy, 2023)
Director: Paola Cortellesi
Set in the late 1940s in post-war Rome, C’è Ancora Domani follows Delia, a woman trying to navigate life in a working-class neighborhood with her domineering husband and three children. Despite her circumstances, Delia dreams of a better future for her daughter, Marcella. However, her life changes dramatically when she receives a mysterious letter, forcing her to reevaluate her destiny. This Italian drama is a moving exploration of resilience, hope, and the pursuit of a better life in the face of hardship.
These three films captured the hearts of the Taoba 2024 participants, who praised them for their compelling storytelling, rich emotional depth, and their ability to engage young audiences. Each film explores powerful themes of personal growth, family, and overcoming challenges, leaving a lasting impression on all who watched them during the festival.
