The first edition of SEA-EU Film Festival, launched by the University of Split got the winner Paweł Golonko from the University of Gdańsk.
Students were offered a unique opportunity to submit short films ranging from 3 to 15 minutes. The festival’s main goal was to encourage the creative expression of young filmmakers and provide a platform for emerging talents to present their work to an international audience. An esteemed jury, composed of experts from all SEA-EU partner universities, evaluated the submissions, focusing on both artistic and technical quality. Out of 30 entries, 11 outstanding films were selected for screening at the University Gallery in Split during the Art Staff Week on 7 November 7, held from November 5 to 7, 2024.
The winner was announced on the official SEA-EU Instagram profile:https://www.instagram.com/p/DBGg_ffzul0/?igsh=MTYwZmcydHFzaWl1cw%3D%3D
The Creative Process Behind the Paweł Golonko’s Latest Film
The director’s latest film delves into the vivid and turbulent emotions of adolescence, capturing the awkwardness, excitement, and unpredictability that define this phase of life. Inspired by the raw feelings of teenage years, he built the story around a powerful image of the final scene, then worked backwards to explore what led to that moment. Central to the film is the theme of self-acceptance—urging viewers to embrace their unique traits rather than seeking validation from others.
The filmmaking process had its challenges, particularly with a very limited budget. The director and his team had to be resourceful, especially when depicting the protagonist’s superpower. Collaboration and creativity were key, with special recognition going to Staszek Juszczyk for his vital work on the VFX, which helped make these scenes convincing.
Visually, the film is vibrant and quirky, highlighting the positive aspects of being different. The cinematography is crucial to the storytelling, with dynamic camera movement in the final scene symbolizing the protagonist’s newfound freedom, in contrast to the earlier stillness.
For the director, the final scene was both emotionally significant and the most complex to execute, blending visual effects with a custom-composed score. As he looks ahead, the director is exploring new ideas, eager to find inspiration for his next short film.
For more informations about Paweł’s artwork, please refer to the following link:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/Inthebxtime/
Conclusion and Reflection
SEA-EU community celebrates the importance of artistic expression in film, encapsulated by the quote: “The best cinema speaks to you personally, reveals a part of yourself you didn’t know existed.” This sentiment resonates deeply as the festival will not only highlight Golonko’s achievement but will also underscore the collective creativity of all participants whose works will also be displayed on the small screen during the SEA-EU Film festival in Split. We hope this event will encourage other students and young artists to share their through motion picture.
