Ionian ContemporaryAnimation Festival ICONA November 12th - 15th, 2026
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Selection
Kite
China 2026
Duration: 05:23
Directed: Shihua Lin
Screenplay: Shihua Lin
Production: Shihua Lin
Dialogue Language: English
This short film uses a kite competition as a metaphor for class rivalry driven by adult vanity. Obsessed with saving face, the fathers engage in fierce competition, their facial features flickering in and out repeatedly amid the struggle, a visual representation of fluctuating superficial pride. The relentless tension eventually snaps the kite string. The children fall to the ground, while the candies symbolizing innocence gradually fade. As obsession takes hold, all facial features vanish completely, leaving empty vanity behind. Freed from restraints, the kite abandons its dull grey hue and blooms with vibrant colors, soaring into the distance. The film conveys that only by letting go of vanity and shackles can we embrace our true selves and attain freedom.
Duration: 05:23
Directed: Shihua Lin
Screenplay: Shihua Lin
Production: Shihua Lin
Dialogue Language: English
This short film uses a kite competition as a metaphor for class rivalry driven by adult vanity. Obsessed with saving face, the fathers engage in fierce competition, their facial features flickering in and out repeatedly amid the struggle, a visual representation of fluctuating superficial pride. The relentless tension eventually snaps the kite string. The children fall to the ground, while the candies symbolizing innocence gradually fade. As obsession takes hold, all facial features vanish completely, leaving empty vanity behind. Freed from restraints, the kite abandons its dull grey hue and blooms with vibrant colors, soaring into the distance. The film conveys that only by letting go of vanity and shackles can we embrace our true selves and attain freedom.
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