Doc Edge Festival 2023: Little Gems 2

Four Short Films

Finding Alaa
A grandfather embarks on a quest to find his granddaughter, Alaa, in a Syrian refugee camp. It delves into themes of identity, belonging, and atonement, exploring the impact of terrorism on innocent families. While grappling with guilt over his son's role in the Paris Attacks, the film offers a message of hope and redemption.

The Fear Cycle
Artist Nicolas Bruno suffers from a rare form of narcolepsy causing sleep paralysis. He turns his condition into creative inspiration, recreating his nightmares in haunting photographs, showcasing the transformative power of art to overcome fear and mental health struggles. A unique perspective on the intersection of art and mental health.

The Volunteer
After being mistaken for the enemy by fellow U.S. forces during the Vietnam War, a Japanese-American veteran struggles to overcome his feelings of guilt and anger, find a sense of belonging, and reunite with the friend who saved his life in this intimate, occasionally hilarious, and moving short documentary.

Uncle Vakoh's Dream
Vakho lives a simple life with his goats in a remote village in the Kazbegi mountains, haunted by a prophetic dream that has come true, and through his reflections and memories, he seeks to find peace with himself and his past in his isolated existence.