Thrilled to announce that LEAF, debut by Horatiu Carpiuc, has been selected for the Official Selection of the 44th Sulmona International Film Festival (SIFF)
The 44rd Sulmona International Film Festival will take place in Sulmona, Italy, from November 4 to November 7, 2026.
The Cinema Pacifico is the gorgeous Theater where the films will be screened.
Leaf is the debut film by the very young Romanian talent Horatiu Carpiuc. It had its world premiere at the Sedona Film Festival in the US and has since been screened at numerous film festivals around the world.
Leaf is a film produced by George Dogaru.
Leaf stars three extraordinary actors: Ruxanda Burlaco, Uretyan Reinheardt and Andi Vasluianiu.
Synopsis:
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.
Horatiu Carpiuc about Leaf:
Leaf (Frunză) 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.
Stay tuned, as we’ll be announcing more successes for our films very soon.
