Shorts 1:

10-14 years

“Finding Friends” is a big issue in young people’s life especially when being some kind of a misfit/outsider. In very touching and funny ways the characters in these films show how to deal with being different and how to find a real companion. The students are encouraged to consider the different characters portrayed in the short-films and will have the opportunity to compare the characters’ situations to their own experiences throughout the discussion.

UK, dir: Nicky Lianos, 2008, Fiction

A story about monsters, moon-walks and what happens to your imaginary friend when you make your first real one…

UK, dir: Katja Roberts, 2010, Fiction

Lonely misfit Amy Jones has noticed a new boy in her street. While playing football alone in the back lane she catches his attention and he begins to reach out to her in his own quirky way. However, Jack’s world is complicated and after a promising start he seems to withdraw from her. It’s only when Amy desperately needs help that Jack is forced to face his greatest fear and reveal the truth behind his mysterious behaviour. ‘The Ball’ portrays the tender beginnings of a burgeoning childhood friendship in which communication takes on touching, funny and inventive forms.

UK, dir: Philip Hunt, 2008, Animation

A magical tale of loneliness and friendship based on the award-winning book by Oliver Jeffers.  One day, a boy finds a penguin on his doorstep . The boy presumes he is lost, so he takes him to the lost and found office. Once they reach the office the boy discovers that no one is missing a penguin, though. The boy then goes on a journey to try and find out where the penguin has come from and to bring him back home – even if that means rowing all the way to the South Pole! A film about an unexpected friendship full of surprises.