Mezipatra: Austrian Shorts – Bold, Fresh and Uninhibited

Austrian films by a young generation of female filmmakers tackle topics that resonate not only with their peers – fearlessly, playfully and with understanding. We introduced Marie Luise Lehner last year at Mezipatra with her feature debut, which won the Teddy Jury Award at the Berlinale. Her films address current social issues from a queer and feminist perspective. She approaches them with lightness and humour without losing their urgency.

Her film The Zipper of My Pants Is Open, Like My Heart explores female desire and the search for its fulfilment through the vivid fantasies of its main character.

Gaps – in fragments of conversations between several women – reveals the presence of sexualised harassment in everyday life.

The programme is rounded off by Natural 95 by filmmaking duo Emma Hütt and Tina Muffler, which premiered at the Locarno Film Festival. It takes us to the countryside, where life revolves around the local petrol station, which doubles as a surprising spot for lesbian cruising. It's also important for three friends whose secret relationships lead to more than one drama.

The event is held in cooperation with the Austrian Cultural Forum in Prague.

Austria / 72 min The Zipper of My Pants Is Open, Like My Heart; Gaps; Natural 95

Admission – voluntary

Accessibility – dog-friendly

Vibe check – seating available, outdoor space

Organised by – QFF Mezipatra Mezipatra is the largest queer film festival in Central and Eastern Europe.