Statement of the Jury (Isabelle Casez, Birgit Guðjonsdottir, Sabine Panossian)

»Fence is an experimental short feature film that explores our human limitations and the eternal dilemma of wanting to be an individual but also wanting to be one with someone in a relationship. Shot on 16-mm, the material’s texture defines the atmosphere of the film. With soft colours, contrasts and lighting effects reminiscent of Ingmar Bergman, a painterly effect is achieved. Scandinavia’s natural landscape is like a sensual canvas, a backdrop to the dynamics of a relationship between two women.

Ebba wakes up just an arm’s length away from her girlfriend Jona. That day, she can’t stop thinking about the dream she had about separation and union. Several visual levels give expression to the multidimensionality of the content. Tension mounts between the poles of attraction and repulsion.

A fence is being erected between Denmark and Germany to separate wild boar from domestic pigs and to prevent the spread of swine flu. The images of the animals’ contrasting worlds are extraordinary in their precision and visual power. In sum, we are impressed by the inspired, bold, abstract and lively camerawork. Unconventionally interpreted and consistent throughout, the cinematography still leaves us room for our own imagination. We can concentrate on the unspoken and all that lies behind the words or in the reflection of the mirror image.«

Guests: Roxana Reiss, Hilke Rönnfeldt