This programme explores the full spectrum of human emotions through 9 captivating films that delve into themes of love, hate, jealousy, sensuality, melancholy, anxiety, confusion, fear, and doubt. Each film is powerful and moving, offering profound insights and striking visuals that resonate with contemporary issues.

Independent animation remains a dynamic and evolving art form, showcasing a stunning array of styles, materials, and techniques – from hand-drawn and paint-on-glass to collage, sculpture, cut-outs, puppetry, abstract forms, and innovative CGI. This year’s LIAF highlights the most diverse and exciting developments within this vibrant medium.

After sorting through a huge pile of 2,300 entries, we’ve curated a selection of 75 outstanding new films from 29 countries. These films range from humorous and dramatic to bizarre, subtle, frightening, and autobiographical. What they all share is our belief that they represent the best of the best. These 8 international competition programmes showcase a variety of techniques, genres, and styles. This is your annual glimpse into the vibrant world of international indie animation.

Several filmmakers will be in attendance to introduce their films at the start of the screening.

Please visit liaf.org.uk for more details

The Taste of Pineapple Bread

A young woman returns, through a virtual map, to the world of her childhood in order to once more feel close to her late grandfather — a story about the longing for someone who can no longer be reached.

Switzerland 2026 Dir: Manfei Li 10’20

Ultra Strong (Ultra forte)

Catherine tries to toughen herself to impress the “princes” in her circle, who turn out to be more off-putting than charming. When all her dubious strategies fail, she must face the ultimate test: learning how to embrace her true nature.

Canada 2026 Dir: Catherine Lepage 9’35

Black Box

An elderly photographer pores over old photographs, trying to reconnect his broken memories with the people they depict. A quiet requiem for a bygone era – a reflection on how futile it is to try to preserve people just as they were.

France, Norway 2026 Dir: Anton Dyakov 9’00

2:LOVE

When two ball girls lock eyes on the court of a prestigious tennis tournament, their initial rivalry slowly transforms into a magnetic passion.

Belgium, France 2026 Dir: Ronni Shalev 11’00

Blessed

A tough, no-nonsense Buffalo has always seen himself as strong and fearless. But when his dream of fatherhood comes true, he’s suddenly awkward, overwhelmed, and under constant judgment. Can he become the father he’s always imagined or will his fears hold him back?

Canada 2025 Dir: Birute Sodeikaite 7’40

My Bellyaching Skin

When my body suddenly started breaking out in a rash, I naturally assumed at first that it was a skin problem. But what if the cause of my itching was actually something to do with my stomach?

France 2026 Dir: Etienne Bonnet 6’10

1981

In suburban Long Island,14-year-old Douglas’s birthday party unexpectedly becomes a lesson in desire, masculinity, and the bewildering rituals of growing up.

USA 2025 Dir: Andy London, Carolyn London 7’45

Gently

A seemingly ordinary childhood seen through the eyes of a little boy, but his fearful home keeps him constantly alert. Inspired by the real childhood memories of several adults.

Czech Republic 2026 Dir: Jamaica Kindlová 8’50

Please

In a big city, several characters in need of affection are looking for a relationship, plunging into situations that are absurd, comical, and moving at the same time.

Finland, Norway, Czech Republic, France, Sweden 2025 Dir: Anna Mantzaris 9’05