R&A Shorts: Boy Friends

At the heart of this screening exploring modern masculinity are the stories of boys and young men. Among friends, casual banter flows, but so do deeper feelings. Connections with friends are sought and maintained in different ways.

With hints of magical realism, North Pole follows ice cream vendor Max, who dreams of a career in electronic music. Yet, crippling insecurity holds him back, and his not-always-so-friendly companion Alex only adds to the confusion.

In Sujip, we meet Aleksandras on his first day answering calls at a crisis helpline. The very first call proves to be exceptionally meaningful, and the conversation between two young men on the line begins to unlock long-held emotional barriers in both.

Kaali discovers that his beloved dog has gone missing from the yard. Together with his only friend Bartilaa, he sets off on a search. Along the way, they face bullies and unsympathetic villagers. Anngeerdardardor, the very first short film ever made in East Greenland and based on true events, was created in collaboration with young people from the small town of Tasiilaq, where it was filmed.

The protagonists of Boys – a seemingly carefree and kind group of friends – believe themselves far removed from toxic masculinity and its ugliest forms. Yet competition and constant challenges simmer beneath the surface, and something long-repressed seems eager to emerge. One evening, their playfulness might go a step too far. Boys will be boys?

Annu Suvanto

There will be a free Jäbät & Tunteet discussion held alongside the screening. Read more on the event page.