Filmmakers Share Insights at Deadline’s 2025 Contenders Film International

The recent 2025 Contenders Film International event hosted by Deadline showcased a range of thought-provoking films, including No Other Choice and Late Shift. Filmmakers shared their creative processes and thematic explorations, shedding light on the narratives that shape their works.

One filmmaker presented a story that reflects on the culture surrounding alcohol consumption. “You know, we Finns drink too much, like in many countries, but we are quite famous in that,” the director explained. “I sort of wanted to tell a story which is like a drinking story that starts funny but ultimately reveals a deeper seriousness.”

Another notable discussion centered on the Palestinian experience. A director highlighted the significance of portraying trauma across generations within their family narrative. “I think it all began with just the idea of covering three generations of one family, to show the passage of trauma and explore the collective trauma that we Palestinians call our own,” they said.

The collaborative nature of film production was also a focal point. Soledad Deza, an influential figure in the industry, was praised for her openness throughout the creative process. “She was very generous and easy to work with, which helped me merge our personalities into the character,” a filmmaker noted.

The thematic exploration of violence in society emerged as a critical topic. A director expressed the desire to address universal themes, stating, “I wanted to find a theme that was more universal because this kind of culture of violence transcends all kinds of social classes.”

One filmmaker discussed the emotional depth of their project, saying, “I just felt like it was too tragic to put in a movie. But I couldn’t stop thinking about this story. It’s about what it means to be human.” This reflects a broader trend in cinema—an exploration of the human condition through nuanced storytelling.

In a more technical discussion, a director recounted the challenges of shooting a film on a limited budget of $200,000. “We shot our second draft, which is crazy,” they admitted. “But the spirit of the crew and cast was what carried us and the film.”

Another filmmaker challenged stereotypes associated with Hong Kong cinema, stating, “People have this impression of Hong Kong films being about action, but the topic I dealt with is actually much more universal.” This sentiment reflects a shift towards broader themes in regional cinema.

The issue of healthcare and profit was highlighted in a director’s narrative. “It’s like, very intentionally, hospitals are understaffed to make more profit,” they remarked, indicating a critical perspective on systemic issues within the healthcare industry.

Throughout the event, the emotional resonance of storytelling was emphasized. A filmmaker shared insights on narrative perspectives, stating, “When you tell the story through the eyes of children, you play with emotions more freely, avoiding the prejudices that adults often carry.”

The creative process often involves humor, as evidenced by a director’s experience. “After reading the screenplay, the first question that Lee asked me was, ‘Can it be funny?’ My response was, ‘The funnier the better,’” they recalled, illustrating the collaborative spirit that drives innovation in filmmaking.

The cultural roots of stories were also a point of reflection. “Stories have identity, have DNAs, have roots,” a filmmaker remarked. “This story was very much rooted in the marshes of Iraq, in Baghdad, aiming to break the stigma associated with the region.”

As filmmakers continue to explore complex themes and narratives, events like Deadline’s Contenders Film International provide a platform for meaningful dialogue. The insights shared at this event underscore the power of cinema to challenge perceptions and foster understanding across diverse experiences.

The event not only highlighted the films but also served as a reminder of the interconnectedness of stories and the importance of sharing them on a global stage.