Lumière's IFFR Favourites

An unexpected surprise was Ghost Trail, a film described by IFFR as an 'intense thriller'—normally not my first choice. The film follows a Syrian refugee who encounters his former torturer in Straatsburg. Don't expect wild chases or intense fights, but rather a layered portrayal of trauma, loss, and the elusive nature of justice. Adam Bessa plays the lead role with a subtle intensity that grips you. In my opinion, it's a must-see, even for those who usually avoid thrillers. Dutch release: 10 April 2025.

Daphne Stubbe (Manager Marketing & Communications)

My highlight of IFFR was the Brazilian drama I'm Still Here, directed by Walter Salles (Central Station, The Motorcycle Diaries). The film is about the family of Rubens Paiva, who live on the beach in Rio. However, the military regime in power increasingly comes to the forefront until Rubens is arrested by the secret police. From then on, the film focuses on his courageous wife Eunice. It's a beautiful story of unlikely brave resistance against the forces of oppression. To celebrate the release of this film in mid-March, we will also be showing Walter Salles' earlier masterpiece, Central Station from 1998, in 4K restoration three times. Dutch release: 13 March 2025.
Tickets for this film are already on sale

Wouter Greven (Head of Programming)

The old master Mike Leigh (Secrets & Lies) is back to his best with a tragicomic, candid drama where emotions are wonderfully magnified. It's impressive how actress Jean-Marie Baptiste portrays a woman who is perpetually angry at everything and everyone. Mike Leigh makes the deep sorrow behind that anger intensely palpable, in a way that is both moving and confusing. It's a painfully beautiful film about the power—and the limits—of unconditional love in family relationships. Dutch release: 6 March 2025.

David Deprez (Artistic Director)

During my first ever visit to IFFR, I watched two films, including my favourite, The Return. The protagonist, Odysseus, played by Ralph Fiennes, washes up on the shores of Ithaca, his kingdom which he left over twenty years ago to fight in the ruthless Trojan War. The once mighty king, now unrecognisably scarred by the war, finds a kingdom that has completely changed. Ralph Fiennes draws you into the story with his powerful acting, making it possible to understand Odysseus's inner conflicts and decisions. Dutch release: 27 March 2025.

Andrea de Jong (Marketing & Communications Intern)