Spain and Japan will jointly present their short films at the 17th edition of EuroAsia Shorts, an esteemed film event to be held in Washington, D.C. from June 15 to June 23. Originally known as the Asian-European Short Film Showcase, this collaborative festival involves select embassies and cultural centers in the Washington, D.C. area. Since 2006, the festival has showcased over 300 short films, including several award-winning works making their U.S. premiere.
EuroAsia Shorts 2023 revolves around the theme of “Freedom from Themes.” Essentially, there is no overarching topic, style, narrative direction or specific aspect of life that unifies all the films individually. By defying conventional categorization, EuroAsia Shorts 2023 indirectly sheds light on a frequently overlooked trend: the consistent inconsistency of life and human nature.
The event is jointly organized by The Japan Information & Culture Center (JICC) and the Cultural Office of the Embassy of Spain in Washington, D.C. Spain and Japan, along with other European, U.S., and Asian films, will present their short films together on the festival’s closing night, scheduled for June 23.
Spain’s lineup comprises five captivating short films. Among them is “Loop,” directed by Pablo Polledri, which portrays a society where individuals repeat the same action endlessly. Another intriguing Spanish entry is “The Treatment,” directed by Alvaro Carmona, which revolves around Miguel, a bald man who considers his condition problematic. However, his life takes an unexpected turn when a clinic contacts him, offering a treatment with supposedly guaranteed results.
Japan, on the other hand, will showcase four captivating short films. One of these is “The Old Woman Skin,” directed by Hiroki Inoue. The film narrates the story of Kyoko, who receives a magical skin that allows her to transform into an old woman. Through this ability, she embarks on a journey to discover the true nature of others’ hearts. Another noteworthy Japanese film is “Manga Girls,” directed by Kedoin Yuki and Okado Takashi, which follows the story of a middle school student who loves drawing manga and expressing herself but struggles to find a peaceful environment to concentrate.
EuroAsia Shorts offers a unique cinematic dialogue on an international level, with a distinct Washingtonian flavor. Each night, the festival presents post-film cultural Q&A sessions and discussions with experts, providing a platform for filmmakers and audiences to engage in meaningful conversations about the films and the themes they explore.
Spain and Japan’s participation in EuroAsia Shorts 2023 present the transformative power of film, surpassing boundaries and fostering unity among people. In our increasingly intricate and interconnected world, events like EuroAsia Shorts serve as vital reminders of the significance of cultural exchange and understanding.
