International Filmmakers Explore Themes of Trauma and Humanity

The Contenders Film International event, hosted by Deadline in March 2025, highlighted a diverse selection of films that delve into complex themes of trauma, identity, and the human experience. Among the featured films were *No Other Choice* and *Late Shift*, both showcasing the unique storytelling perspectives of international filmmakers.

Exploring Cultural Narratives and Personal Histories

One filmmaker, who hails from Finland, shared insights into their project, emphasizing the duality of humor and tragedy. “You know, we Finns drink too much, like in many countries,” they stated. “I sort of wanted to tell a story which is like a drinking story that it starts, it’s very funny. And at some point you realize that it’s not fun at all.” This reflection sets the stage for a deeper examination of societal issues through the lens of personal anecdotes.

Another participant, Soledad Deza, discussed her collaborative process, revealing, “She was very open with me all the time, in every part of the process, like the script. She’s an easy person to be with, which made it very easy for me to feel her energy, to create a merger between her personality and mine.” The blending of personal experiences with broader cultural narratives is a recurring theme throughout the panel discussions.

The exploration of trauma also resonated in the works presented. One filmmaker noted, “I think it all began with just the idea of covering three generations of one family, to show kind of the passage of trauma and to really explore this collective trauma that we Palestinians call the.” This statement underscores the significance of storytelling as a means to address historical and ongoing struggles.

Universal Themes and Human Connections

Throughout the event, many filmmakers expressed a desire to tackle universal themes that transcend cultural boundaries. “I wanted to find a theme that was more universal because this kind of culture of violence transcends all kinds of social classes,” one filmmaker remarked, emphasizing the relevance of their work in today’s world.

Another filmmaker reflected on the challenges of portraying sensitive subjects, stating, “I just felt like it was too tragic to put in a movie. But even as I felt like my head was saying no, I couldn’t stop thinking about this story. I felt like this is not just a story about this terrible mistake, it’s something much deeper. It’s about what it means to be human.” This sentiment captures the essence of why many filmmakers are drawn to difficult narratives.

The creative process itself was also a topic of discussion, with one director mentioning their unconventional approach: “I think we shot our second draft, which is crazy. I wouldn’t recommend anyone do that, but it was kind of cool. … It was a tiny film; we shot it on $200,000. The spirit of the crew and cast was really what carried us and what carried the film.” This dedication to storytelling highlights the passion driving independent cinema.

Filmmakers also addressed misconceptions about their home countries. A director noted, “People had this impression of Hong Kong films being about action, kung fu, and all that. But really, the topic I’ve dealt with is actually much more of a global trend.” This statement reflects a broader aim to challenge stereotypes and present multifaceted narratives.

In discussing societal issues, one filmmaker raised a pressing concern: “It’s like, very intentionally, hospitals are understaffed to make more profit. This just kept brewing and simmering in me and I felt it was a really important topic to look at from a filmmaker’s perspective, also a feminist perspective and a political perspective.” Such insights reveal the critical role of cinema in addressing societal challenges.

As the event continued, the filmmakers shared their experiences of reconciling personal and cultural stories. “When you tell the story through the eyes of children in general, you play way more with the emotions and not with such a constructed world,” one director explained. This approach emphasizes the purity of perspective that children can bring to storytelling.

The collaborative nature of filmmaking was also evident in the discussions. One participant recalled a light-hearted exchange with their co-writer: “After reading the screenplay, the first question that Lee asked me was, ‘Can it be funny?’ My response was, ‘The funnier the better — you can make it as comedic as you want.’” This playful dialogue helped shape the final product, illustrating the dynamic nature of creative collaboration.

As the event concluded, filmmakers emphasized the importance of their stories in reshaping perceptions. “Stories have identity, have DNAs, have roots. And this story was very much rooted in the marshes of Iraq, in the south of Iraq, in Baghdad,” one director stated. “I also wanted to break this stigma about Iraq, which is perceived in a very certain way in people’s minds.” Such assertions highlight the potential of film to foster understanding and empathy across cultures.

The Contenders Film International event demonstrated the power of cinema to address vital themes, inviting audiences to engage with stories that reflect both personal and collective experiences. As these filmmakers continue to explore the depths of humanity, their works are likely to resonate with a global audience.