7 YEARS, 28 SHORTS, AND 1 PANDEMIC LATER

IDLE SHORTS UNVEILED

Idle Shorts spans seven years, featuring 52 films across Europe and the Mediterranean, exploring human connections. Following successful premieres in Hamburg and Berlin, we're thrilled to extend our screenings to include Marseille this fall. Stay updated and discover what's next by subscribing to our newsletter.


COMING THIS FALL

MARSEILLE PREMIERE

Join us this fall in Marseille for the next screening of Six Idle Shorts. After Hamburg and Berlin, we're excited to bring our six personal stories to the heart of the Mediterranean. Prepare for a special night with a unique cinematic experience and a live music event. Subscribe to our newsletter to stay informed about the event details and more. We can't wait to share this special night with you in Marseille!

SUNNY SIDE UP

Les Œufs au plat

Nº23

An defining concert, a pending eviction, a marriage under strain. Majid — an undocumented Raï musician — and his wife are getting kicked out of their place in Marseille, hours before one the most important gigs in Majid’s life.

Ivan's Gift

Nº06

Ivan is not your average cinematic hero. A gifted artisan, of a lawless craft, with a dangerous clientele, and a high-functioning form of autism. This short thriller drama follows Ivan as his life turns upside down when he gets a visit from an assassin.

To See a Woman

EINE FRAU ZU SEHEN

Nº41

Longing, connection, and a bumpy journey to self-discovery, amidst the breath-taking landscape of the Engadine in the Swiss Alps.

All Things Burn

TOUT BRÛLE

Nº24

Inspired by true events, a historical wildfire reminds us that in a battle against nature, we will always be on the losing end.

Hitchhiking

Sur le Pouce

Nº12

Sarah is an unusual 20-year-old. She doesn’t have a phone or an app to rely on. However, she has a serious case of wanderlust, a disarming smile, and a tireless thumb.

Getting Lost

Nº49

A couple's search for a lighthouse during a weekend trip strains their relationship to a breaking point. But perhaps, getting lost is the best way to find the way back to each other.

Stay Tuned

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About

An Open Film House in Hamburg

Idle Films is an independent film collective and a company. We are based in Hamburg and hosted by Filmfabrique at the heart of a creative hub in the Kreativquartier Oberhafen. We develop and produce short-form fiction for the big screen, the web, and everywhere in between. We love telling stories from all walks of life that will make you feel something, no matter where you're from or what language you speak. We work with fresh and experienced talents to create cinematic experiences that inspire and get you talking.

Iliès Terki

Iliès is an Algerian-born filmmaker based in Hamburg. He graduated from Istituto Europeo di Design in Madrid and ESSAG Penninghen in Paris. He tells intimate stories from diverse cultures, exploring themes of love, loss, and resilience. Iliès is the founder of Idle Films and the co-founder of Idle Shorts.

ANGELIKI KARNOUPAKI

Angeliki is a creative director born in Greece and based in Hamburg. During her 12 years of experience in brand communication and copywriting, Angeliki had the opportunity to work with advertising agencies, small businesses, and start-ups. Her work has been recognised in various international festivals and competitions. As a creative partner at Idle Films, she helps shape the creative direction of our film house.

Timmi Kwaku Davis

Timmi is a talented filmmaker and cinematographer with diverse experience in the film industry. He has collaborated extensively with director Iliès Terki and Idle Films, experimenting with innovative camera work and storytelling methods to bring their shared vision to life.

Fernando Silvestrin

Fernando is a Brazilian writer, co-creator of Idle Shorts and published author. He graduated from UCLA's renowned Professional Program in Writing for Television and is currently pursuing a Master's degree at The Lisbon Theatre and Film School. He is a committed writer with a passion for effective storytelling.

CHRISTOPH KLINGER

Christoph is a German pianist, composer, and producer. He grew up improvising on a 120-year-old piano. After studying philosophy, he moved to Hamburg to pursue music. He composes for most of Ilies Terki's film projects.

Gabriella MAIS

Gabriella is a spirited Brazilian based in Hamburg. She has brought her multifaceted skills to Idle Films as a Director's Assistant since 2022, supporting the promotion and growth of the ongoing project Idle Shorts.

HOLGER JAQUET

Holger Jaquet, a Hamburg-based cinematographer, cultivates innovative visuals in commercials and short films. Notable works include "The One" and the "World Record" project. His expertise guides the enhancement of Idle Shorts' visual signature, lending a refined touch to our growing body of work.

PAULA BIEREND

Paula is a committed assistant producer and writer seamlessly merging her study of English Literature with her role in Idle Shorts. Since 2021, she has been a steady hand behind the success of over five productions, offering a fresh perspective that helps to shape thoughtful narratives.

What is Idle Shorts?


THE 52-WEEK ANTHOLOGY

IDLE SHORTS


Idle Shorts is a film project made of 52 stories of human connection.Launched in 2016, the anthology captures quiet reflections, fleeting joys, and unspoken ties. Each film tells a standalone story that explores how we connect to life and each other. It is organized like a weekly journal, with the episodes following the four seasons and aligning with the 52 weeks of the year.

“It is in our idleness, in our dreams, that the submerged truth sometimes makes its way to the surface” - VIRGINIA WOOLF.


Stay Tuned

Idle Shorts is an on-going project. To learn more or stay up-to-date with progress and new releases, sign-up to our newsletter, follow us on Instagram, or why not both.

Berlin Program


BERLIN PREMIERE

SIX IDLE SHORTS

Following our successful premiere in Hamburg with over 320 attendees, we're excited to bring Idle Shorts to Berlin. The Hamburg screening featured six diverse films from France, Germany, and Switzerland, exploring themes from wanderlust to mental health. Now, on February 6th, we invite you to a more intimate yet equally captivating event in Berlin, promising a cozy, engaging setting to experience these unique stories.


SIX PERSONAL STORIES

Each short film we screened conveyed a unique and personal story. Our goal was to showcase works by slightly offbeat talents while encouraging appreciation for stories that represent various worldviews.

La Madeleine de Proust

Our premiere symbol is the Madeleine, rooted in Proust's" La Madeleine de Proust." Each film in our diverse anthology aims to be a catalyst for the viewer, evoking a sensorial experience. Our shorts ensure that every viewer finds a story that resonates intimately with them, just like everyone has a personal "Madeleine de Proust."

Previous Events


SIX IDLE SHORTS

Our recent premiere in Hamburg was a startling success with over 320 registrations. The screening featured six unique standalone short films, each filmed across the diverse landscapes of France, Germany, and Switzerland. These films delved into various themes, from wanderlust and the complexities of mental health to the devastating reality of wildfires.


SIX PERSONAL STORIES

Each short film we screened conveyed a unique and personal story. Our goal was to showcase works by slightly offbeat talents while encouraging appreciation for stories that represent various worldviews.

IMMERSIVE SCREENING EXPERIENCE

Our Premiere was more than an ordinary film screening. It offered a unique experience, where a surprising live music performance accompanied our final short film, 'Sunny Side Up.' This fusion of film and music created an unforgettable evening. The event included an engaging Q&A session and a lively after-party with Café Noaille - an Algerian band from Marseille.

Looking Forward

The success of our Premiere in Hamburg has set the stage for more exciting screenings and events in 2024.

Register Now

    06.Feb 2024 - 1930 | Moviemento Kino, Kreuzberg Berlin





    Contact

    QUESTIONS, FEEDBACK, INQUIRIES?


    LET'S TALK

    If you would like to find out more about our projects or are interested in a collaboration the Idle Shorts project, or other work that we do in , do not hesitate to contact us

    Stay Tuned

    For monthly updates and exclusive content, subscribe to our newsletter. For daily snippets, follow us on Instagram.

    Support

    SUPPORT IDLE SHORTS

    reserve a seat

    We are working hard to make this event a great experience for our guests, and we need your help. By becoming a sponsor or buying a seat, you can help us cover costs and ensure that all filmmakers and talents have the opportunity to attend.Different seat categories are available so that you can find the perfect option for your budget. Check out the seating map and reserve your seat today!

    If you want to become a partner of the Premiere and help more, please reach out following the link below.

    OUR SUPPORTERS

    Imprint

    Company Information

    Company Name: Idle Films UG (haftungsbeschränkt)
    Address: Filmfabrique, Stockmeyerstrasse 43, DE 20457, Hamburg
    HRB: 118122
    Managing Director: Iliès Terki.H
    TAX ID: DE287763802

    Contact Information

    Email: mail@idlefilms.tv
    Website: [idlefilms.tv]

    Copyright Notice

    The copyrights in the video content and short films displayed on our website are owned by Idle Films UG. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or use of this content without prior permission from Idle Films UG is strictly prohibited. All rights reserved.

    Privacy Policy

    At Idle Shorts, we value and respect the privacy of our website visitors. This policy, encompassed in our overall Terms and Conditions of Use, delineates the manner in which we handle the personal information you entrust us with.Information You Provide
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    Sunny side up

    Sunny Side Up is a short film about love and music. It’s also about gentrification and the challenges associated with precarious living and life as a musician.


    SYNOPSIS

    The film follows the story of Majid—an undocumented Raï musician in Marseille. Hours before the single most important concert of his life, one could secure his residence permit, Majid and his wife are getting evicted from their apartment. When Majid insist on rehearsing and even declines help from his friend Hamid, Asma is struggling to keep it together. As time is running out, tensions are rising and Asma finally confronts Majid's indifference.

    Sunny Side Up (Les Oeufs au Plat) is Episode Nº23, part of the Idle Shorts Anthology.Learn more about Idle Shorts


    FILM INFOS

    Directed & Produced by Iliès Terki
    Starring: Djamel Reffes, Naziha Homrani, Mouelhin Nasser
    Original Title: Les Œufs Au Plat

    10 minutes
    Drama Music
    5.1 Audio | Color, 4k Scope (2.39)
    French/Algerian (CC)

    CREDITS

    Story and screenplay by Iliès Terki
    Cinematography by Holger Jaquet
    Produced by Iliès Terki.
    Set design: Nathalie Oger

    Music Score by Djamel Reffes
    Sound: Mathieu Altmann
    Sound Mixer Walter laguerre
    Colorist: Alen Jelić


    Ivan's Gift

    Ivan's Gift is an unusual thriller of an autistic outlaw who narrowly escapes death, leading to an unexpected encounter that offers him a chance at a fresh start and a perhaps a new life.


    SYNOPSIS

    In the remote hinterlands of Southern France, Ivan, an underground gunsmith with Asperger syndrome, lives a solitary life in a dinghy trailer workshop. His secluded existence revolves around his craftsmanship, repairing and creating firearms for anonymous patrons, of questionable morals and intentions, in exchange for life necessities. His methodically crafted routine is abruptly shattered when an unknown assailant targets him, turning Ivan's world upside down. Confronted with death, Ivan’s flight instinct kicks in, as he attempts an escape in the assassin’s car. Only to soon discover that he’s not alone in the vehicle.

    Ivan's Gift is Episode Nº06, part of the Idle Shorts Anthology.
    Learn more about Idle Shorts


    FILM INFOS

    Directed & Produced by Iliès Terki
    Starring: Daniel Thomas

    12 minutes
    Thriller Drama
    5.1 Audio | Color, 4k Scope (2.39)
    German (CC)

    CREDITS

    Cinematography: Timmi Davis
    Story by Iliès Terki
    Screenplay: ilièsTerki & Fernando Silvestrin

    Music: Christoph Klinger
    Sound: Walter Laguerre
    Production Design: Benjamin Aignan


    To see a woman

    An aspiring stage actress who struggles with a role travels to the Swiss mountain village of Sils Maria, searching for inspiration. But fate has other plans.


    SYNOPSIS

    Marie struggles to embody a character for a play about Swiss writer Annemarie Schwarzenbach. In search of inspiration, Marie sets off on a journey to Sils Maria—a small village where the writer spent her final days. But despite the beautiful backdrop of the snowy mountains of the Engadine, Marie grapples with her lines and the emotional depth of her character. Until an unexpected encounter with a mysterious woman shifts her focus from her creative block to an avalanche of unexpected feelings.

    To See a Woman (Eine Frau zu Sehen) is Episode Nº41, part of the Idle Shorts Anthology.
    Learn more about Idle Shorts


    FILM INFOS

    Directed & Produced by Iliès Terki
    Starring: Verena Gerjets,
    Naemi Latzer, Marta Kalka
    Original Title: Eine Frau zu Sehen

    12 minutes
    Drama Romance
    5.1 Audio | Color, 4k Scope (2.39)
    German (CC)

    CREDITS

    Cinematography: Timmi Davis
    Story by Iliès Terki
    screenplay: Iliès Terki, Paula Bierend, Amina Balajo.

    Music: Christoph Klinger
    Sound: Christoph Hellmich
    Sound Mixer Walter Laguerre


    All Things Burn

    When a wildfire of historical proportions breaks out at Plaine des Maures in the South of France, Ana makes a few very uncomfortable choices.


    SYNOPSIS

    As Ana, a sawmill operator in southern France, finishes her shift, she notices unfamiliar bird chirps and rising smoke. Soon she discovers that a wildfire is raging in the area. Desperate to get to her unconventional home, nestled in a majestic oak tree, Ana struggles to get passed the roadblocks. Even though her home is at the path of the raging fire, Ana is determined to get there to protect the life she’s built. Her battle against the fire may be a battle against the odds, but Ana will not give in without a fight.

    All Things Burn (Tout Brûle) is Episode Nº24, part of the Idle Shorts Anthology.
    Learn more about Idle Shorts


    FILM INFOS

    Directed & Produced by Iliès Terki
    Starring: Evelise Mendes
    Original Title: Tout Brûle

    12 minutes
    Drama Environment
    5.1 Audio | Color, 4k Scope (2.39)
    French/Portuguese (CC)

    CREDITS

    Story & Screenplay by Iliès Terki
    Cinematography: Holger Jaquet
    VFX artist: Philippe Maron
    Production design: Margot Gueguen

    Music Score: Glantz.Cortez
    Sound Design: Walter Laguerre
    Colorist: Franziska Heinemann


    Hitchhiking

    Sarah's journey through the French Provence is filled with adventure, enigmatic strangers, and a few unforeseen twists and wrong turns.


    SYNOPSIS

    Set against the backdrop of the sunlit Provence, Sarah, a spirited twenty-something seasonal worker, sets out hitchhiking to reach her new job. Relying exclusively on her disarming smile and tireless thumb, Sarah is making her way through scenic landscapes and bumpy roads, surrounded by cork oak evergreen forests, with the help of three strangers. And just like a modern-day Ulysses, Sarah’s journey cannot reach its destination without running into a few unforeseen twists and wrong turns along the way.

    Hitchhiking (Sur le Pouce) is Episode Nº12, part of the Idle Shorts Anthology.
    Learn more about Idle Shorts


    FILM INFOS

    Directed & Produced by Iliès Terki
    Starring: Eva Flaure, Benjamin Aignan, Élise Clément, Viktor Sterwald
    Original Title: Sur le Pouce (French)

    15 minutes
    Road Movie Adventure
    5.1 Audio | Color, 4k Scope (2.39)
    French (CC)

    CREDITS

    Story by Iliès Terki
    Screenplay: Iliès Terki & Paula Bierend
    Cinematography: Holger Jaquet

    Music Score: Christoph Klinger
    Sound Design: Walter Laguerre


    Getting lost

    A couple’s weekend getaway at the North Sea becomes a reminder of the things they can’t get away from.


    SYNOPSIS

    During a trip to a small harbor town, Jenny and Timmi search for a lighthouse that holds special meaning to their relationship. As they become lost, tensions rise between them, leading to a breaking point. Jenny takes off on her own towards a nearby forest, while Timmi stays put, thinking Jenny will come back soon. After some time, still no sign of Jenny. Only the distant echo of a gunshot and hunting dogs. As anger gives way to fear, an increasingly concerned Timmi is heading towards the woods looking for his partner.

    Getting Lost is Episode Nº49, part of the Idle Shorts Anthology.
    Learn more about Idle Shorts


    FILM INFOS

    Directed by Iliès Terki
    Starring: Timmi Davis, Jennifer Lotsi

    15 minutes
    Romance Drama
    5.1 Audio | Color, 4k Scope (2.39)
    German (CC)

    CREDITS

    Produced by Iliès Terki & Fernando Silvestrin
    Story by Iliès Terki
    Screenplay: Iliès Terki & Fernando Silvestrin
    Cinematography: Moritz Tessendorf
    Set Design: Jillian van Koutrik

    Music Score: Christoph Klinger
    Sound Design: Walter Laguerre
    Sound: Christoph Hellmich

    Sunny Side Up


    Ivan's Gift


    To See a Woman


    All Things Burn


    Hitchhiking


    Getting Lost


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