Thrilled to announce that the short film LEAF, directed by Romania’s rising star Horatiu Carpiuc, has been selected to compete in the first edition of HollyShorts Dubai, United Arab Emirates.
With the aim of showcasing diverse independent voices and emerging filmmakers from the Middle East, HollyShorts, a qualifying festival for the Hollywood Oscars, is launching its first HollyShorts Dubai, which will be held from 12 to 14 December 2025 at Dubai’s cutting-edge Studio One Hotel.
LEAF is a production by acclaimed Romanian filmmaker George Dogaru who has enjoyed success on the international film festival circuit with titles such as OCTOPUS and Ter Chono, a Mongolian Story.
LEAF is wonderfully performed by three brilliant stars from the Carpathians: Andi Vasluianu, Ruxanda Burlacu & Uretyan Reinhardt.
A single father’s surprise for his 14-year-old daughter turns into a tense confrontation when he discovers her with an older boy, forcing them to confront their bond.
Director’s Statement:
Frunză (Leaf) encourages communication, rational debate, and the willingness to embrace new ideas and perspectives — ones that may differ from the realities we are accustomed to.
I wish I could say that my motivation was to explore the theme of coming of age, which is a challenge faced by both characters. On one hand, there is the impulsive, naturally rebellious nature of the daughter, shaped by her age and on the other hand, there is the father, who is struggling with the fear of a third possible abandonment. Beyond reconnecting with his daughter, the father ultimately gains a deeper understanding — that sooner or later, every child must choose their own path. That is his own personal growth.
I could also say that I wanted to portray what healthy communication should look like, or to reflect an education rooted in culture and values, or even to shed light on the reality of domestic violence in Romania — an issue that remains widespread. The truth is, Leaf is my message in a bottle, cast into the ocean of time, addressed to my own daughter. A reminder that every conversation left unspoken shapes who we become.
We will soon be announcing more good news about this magnificent European cinematic gem on the international film festival circuit. Stay tuned.
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