World at Stake

Austria2025animated17'Short Film Competition

A footballer battles on the pitch with himself and the world, a golfer makes another mistake in front of the crowd and a rally car driver suffers the consequences of one poorly executed manoeuvre. Employing the style of popular video games, such as FIFA, PGA Tour and Dirt Rally, the animation tackles issues that go far beyond sports arenas. Each of the protagonists struggles not only with their rivals but also emotions, expectations and spectators, who constantly judge the players. It is a story about pressure and powerlessness in the face of the world, and about the need to keep winning. Unsettling music and slow motion effects build tension and make you ask yourself whether this game is only about scoring points.