The films in this year’s International Competition meet at the intersection of what many of us need in the current social climate. On the one hand, cinema is there inform and provoke us – to make us think about the world and change our perspectives. But cinema is also there to help us escape, to let us throw off the shackles of everyday life and run free in a space devoid of judgement and worry. These shorts do an admirable job on both counts. There are powerful and emotional works, showing determination in the face of insurmountable odds. There are films which make us laugh and delight in the ridiculousness of everyday life and interactions.

But whether they stir us into a fit of righteous indignation or make us squeal with joy (or, indeed, sometimes both) these are films are rooted in the human spirit and raging against the dying of the light with passion, fire and – on occasion – tenderness.

With many of the shorts on offer giving POFF audiences the first chance to experience them in the world, the International Competition is a journey of discovery of exciting new cinema and new voices.