The out-of-competition Multiverse section was introduced at Message to Man last year as an extension and commentary to the main competition programme. Its very presence in the Festival lineup speaks volumes about the wide variety of diverse films that catch the attention of the Message to Man curators each year. Multiverse is designed for those who seek to see more, to look further and deeper. It requires focused attention.

That is why this year, the Multiverse screenings are divided into three parts—three circles of attention, inspired by Stanislavski’s stage system: the “remote circle,” the “close circle,” and the “inner circle.”

Stanislavsky referred to the interaction between the actor and the audience, their stage partners, and themselves, emphasizing the performer’s concentration. The three Multiverse sessions explore the interaction between an individual and the world, the ones around them, and their inner selves.

The films in “The Remote Circle” probe the boundaries of space and society, exploring territories where it’s easy to lose something vital but essential to venture into to find something meaningful.

“The Close Circle” reflects on family ties and micro-communities—a state of closeness where emotions are laid bare, and where the words and actions of others can bring both joy and pain.

“The Inner Circle” delves into the internal world, touching on themes of loneliness, loss, self-discovery, and the space where inner demons reside and dreams are born.

All the films in this programme appeal to our capacity to feel and invite us into a conversation—especially when that conversation is with ourselves.

Diana Abu Yosef, Katerina Beloglazova, Maria Gotlib, Vasiliy Stepanov,
Programme Curators