BREAKING: The 2025 Oldenburg Film Festival is set to captivate audiences with its eclectic lineup from September 10–14. This year, five standout films have been highlighted that promise to redefine indie cinema, showcasing the bizarre and the unconventional.
Festival-goers can expect to be immersed in a range of gripping narratives, including a Belgian punk-music satire and a chilling Mexican cartel thriller. Notably, one film uniquely tells its horror story from the perspective of a loyal Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever, marking a fresh approach to the genre.
One of the must-see features, Horseshoe, is a haunting Irish drama that delves into familial bonds and unresolved grief. Following the death of their father, four siblings return to their childhood home, only to confront not only old resentments but also the spirit of their father, who isn’t ready to let them go. As tensions rise, secrets are unearthed and alliances are tested within a mere 24 hours of decision-making about their family estate.
Emerging from the Slamdance Film Festival, Under the Burning Sun tells the poignant story of Mowanza, a young woman navigating a harrowing journey across the desert to seek legal abortion after a traumatic assault, in a country where such rights are denied. This microbudget film channels feminist outrage into a compelling narrative, making it a standout that audiences cannot afford to miss.
Returning to Oldenburg is Jerome Vandewattyne with his latest satire, Summer Hit Machine. This film offers a humorous yet dark glimpse into the music industry, where a band is trapped in a studio under the watchful eye of a delusional label boss, spiraling toward chaos as reality blurs.
In a gripping turn, Good Boy, directed by Ben Leonberg, presents a supernatural horror tale through the eyes of Indy, a devoted dog who senses lurking dangers within his home. As dark forces threaten his owner’s safety, Indy must summon his courage to protect him, providing a unique canine perspective on the haunted house trope.
Finally, Cocodrilos, by J. Xavier Velasco, will have its European premiere at the festival. This tense thriller follows young photojournalist Santiago in Veracruz, who risks his life to expose corruption after his mentor is murdered. The film sheds light on the real-life dangers faced by Mexican reporters, making it a gripping watch for those invested in the fight for truth.
With just days until the festival kickoff, cinephiles are gearing up for an unforgettable experience that promises emotional depth, thrilling narratives, and a celebration of independent filmmaking. Stay tuned for more updates as the festival approaches, and don’t miss your chance to witness these groundbreaking films.
