Under The Surface

What lies behind beauty or silence? Laughter or struggle? Under the Surface is a one-time screening of four short animated films, presented by Willem de Kooning Academy alumni Oleksandra Davydenko and Souffiën Melad. With the support of WORM, they are joined by former classmates Leja Kancerevyčiūtė, Adelen Holt, and Bonne Steinz to celebrate the work they created during their graduation period.

Under the Surface brings together films that reveal in their own way what usually remains unsaid: from stop-motion sets to new and experimental animation software, from comedy to poetic self-reflection.

1. Fryd by Adelen Holt 2025 / Netherlands / 6:39 min. / English spoken - A struggling girl ruins her friendship with Fryd with an underwater kiss.
2. Mr Sun & Miss Universe by Souffiën Melad 2025 / Netherlands / 6:59 min. / English spoken - When superstar Louis (also known as 'Mr Sun' for his golden locks and outsized personality) realizes he's going bald, he embarks on a cosmic journey that sees him rethink his relationship with his aging body.
3. Fathoming Dinner by Oleksandra Davydenko & Leja Kancerevyciute 2025 / Netherlands / 8 min. / English spoken - Lost in trivial topics, a dysfunctional family's lavish dinner reflects a world where real problems are merely side dishes.
4. An Elephant in a China Cabinet by Bonne Steinz 2024 / Netherlands / Runtime not yet known / Spoken in Dutch, English subtitles - A tower full of delicate treasures learns to open its doors to an unexpected visitor. As they discover the wonders within, both tower and guest embark on a journey of self-discovery and the power of connection.

A program by Souffien Melad and Oleksandra Davydenko, two emerging animators, both recent graduates of the Willem de Kooning Academy. Their work combines the comedic with the personal, wrapped in a colorful and somewhat exaggerated style.

Join us on September 16th to see these little gems and hear more from the filmmakers during the Q&As about their working methods and future projects. And, just as importantly, meet up with each other over a cool drink at the bar.

Organized by MDT, WORM, and Skills Court. Cineville valid at the door and online on the day!