Aire: Just Breathe
In the near future, a scientist races against time to change humanity’s fate.
91'
Dominican Republic
IFFR 2024
In a world devastated by chemical warfare, with a dwindling human population that beckons the spectre of its extinction, a lone scientist plans to ensure a future. In seeking an antidote to the sterility that has blighted the last vestiges of the male human population, conservation biologist Tania, in tandem with Vida, an artificial intelligence system, has found a symbiotic relationship. The arrival of Azarias, a mysterious and troubled traveller, disrupts the solitary environment Tania has built. But as the two become more relaxed in each other’s presence, Vida feels her own relationship with Tania – and by turn her sense of belonging – is threatened.
Writer, director and producer Leticia Tonos Paniagua’s strikingly beautiful fifth feature eschews effects-laden cinema in favour of a more intimate probe into the nature of human existence. The interplay between the three characters, ably performed by Sophie Gaëlle, Jalsen Santana and Paz Vega, as the voice of Vida, becomes a study of loneliness – particularly in our technology-driven, post-lockdown world where industrialised society has driven nature towards the precipice. The sci-fi genre has been considered rare in Caribbean cinema, making Paniagua’s intelligent film all the more precious.
– Vanja Kaludjercic
IFFR 2024
Programme IFFR 2024
A diverse competition bridging the gap between popular, classic and art house cinema. An expert audience jury picks the winner.
Read more about this programmeIn the near future, a scientist races against time to change humanity’s fate.
91'
Dominican Republic
IFFR 2024
A nation’s chilling desire for war and the toll it took on its children.
65'
Finland
IFFR 2024
Revered teacher Pietro has an affair with one of his students in this exquisite thriller.
136'
Italy
IFFR 2024