YANA selected for the Kids First! Filmfestival in the US

We are very pleased to tell you that YANA - short film was selected for the Kids First! Filmfestival, a showcase festival for professional programmers.

The selection includes a review by Melissa M., an adult juror. We'll gladly share some excerpts of it below.

"I give Yana 4 out of 5 stars."

"I like that the curiosity is built so subtly with the music and camera angles and I like how Yana's face is subtly expressive and her actions are all so purposeful. However, when she does get emotional it comes out really strong and it is very emotional to watch."

"Hasse Huygens, who plays Yana, delivers a very believable performance. We see her trying to be so brave and get the job done, taking on a job that no child should have to do alone and when she hits an emotional breaking point and bounces back to being a happy go lucky child, your heart breaks a bit for her.

My favorite part of the film is when we see her playing and having fun like a kid, despite all the responsibility and emotional trauma she is experiencing.

My least favorite part is when the realtor tells her to tell her mom to clear out the house completely, though her response is terrific!"

"The cinematography is quite good; the camera angles add to building the audience’s curiosity.

I love the location and sets."

"I really like how the story brings Yana to her old house and back on such an emotional journey. It shows that, as sad as she was, she could still be a child and have fun."

"This film shows that kids are very immensely affected by the actions of adults that are central to their lives. It also shows how resilient children are, against all odds.

The film makes me curious to learn more about childhood trauma. There is so much more for us to learn about things that affect children, as this film shows.”