European Films

An audacious black and white film from Argentina called La antena (The Aerial) will open the upcoming International Rotterdam Film Festival 2007, organisers confirmed yesterday. The festival, known for showcasing daring films from upcoming directors from all over the world, chose cinematographer-turned-director Esteban Sapir's second film because it is "one of next season's most lovingly crafted and strikingly original films" according to festival director Sandra Hamer, who also calles La antena "an engaging statement against the power of mass media and its cult of recycling". The festival runs from January 24, when La antena will be screened, through February 4 and will showcase some twenty titles in its Tiger Awards competition section, including the opening film. 

La antena is set in a surrealistic, snow covered city ruled by Mr. TV, a dictator who controls the spoken word, which he uses for broadcasts as well as for food production. It has left the inhabitants speechless and dependent. Only La Voz, a female singer, escapes the rule of Mr. TV. She and her young son are the only persons able to speak. A man, his father and his young daughter join forces with La Voz in an attempt to overthrow Mr. TV. The film, also written by he director, was partially financed by the Hubert Bals Fund, which is connected with the Rotterdam Film Festival. Eight films have been previously announced for the Tiger Awards competition, including Kevin Mortier's Ex Drummer, Pia Marais' Die Unerzogenen and the first Macedonian DOGME film from Aneta Lesnikovska.

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