This film left us speechless: The impressive landscape images, the poetry of the language, the emotionality of the music and the masterful use of light paired with the captivating story about the young orphan Matar were overwhelming. The Bedouin Matar stands out for his sense of justice and his high ethical standards in a merciless environment full of vanity and injustice. The absolute prioritisation of the welfare of his companion, the camel Hofira, and the appreciation of his family history characterise the actions of this excellent jockey. No money in the world, no prospect of victories and successes interest him, but only the peaceful, respectful coexistence with Hofira, for whom he himself would give his life. At the same time, we were able to immerse ourselves in a culture that is completely foreign to us and learn about its values, family structures and traditions.
29th International Film Festival for Children and Young Audience SCHLiNGEL
The Ecumenical Jury at SCHLiNGEL 2024 awarded its prize to "Hajjan", the second feature film by Egyptian director Abu Bakr Shawky, as well as a Special Mention to "La Petite et le Vieux" by Patrice Sauvé from Canada, which also received the Jury Prize of the Federation of International Film Critics (Fipresci). The European Children's Film Jury Prize went to "Lampo, the Travelling Dog" (OT: O psie, który jeździł koleją) by Magdalena Nieć from Poland, the National Feature Film Jury Prize went to "Gotteskinder" by Frauke Lodders, the International Feature Film Jury Prize went to the Dutch-Latvian co-production "The Book of Everything" (OT: Het boek van alle dingen) by Ineke Houtman and the MDR Special Prize to "Superpowers for Your Mind" (OT: Superkrachten voor je hoofd) by Dylan Haegens, also from the Netherlands.
On 25 September, the 29th International Film Festival for Children and Young Audiences SCHLiNGEL opened with "School of Magical Animals 3" at the Chemnitz Opera House. The festival screened a total of 181 films from 52 countries. They were divided into six competition categories (children's film, junior film, youth film, animated film, short film and Blickpunkt Deutschland, the national competition) and further special programmes. The Ecumenical Jury awards its prize to a film from the competitions for children and juniors.
Awards
The film takes us on a journey into the world of the 80s in French-speaking Canada. Tough economic constraints, failed dreams and broken family relationships determine people's reality. Nevertheless, compassion finds its way: the old man who protects the main character Jo like an angel. Her job colleague, who helps without expecting anything in return. And the young Jo herself, who is constantly confronted with the shortcomings of adulthood as she grows up. But she is never discouraged from looking for the good in people for her own small happiness and helping selflessly.
