An Eclectic Mix of Fiction and Non-Fiction at the Sands International Film Festival

The Sands International Film Festival, now in its third year, has kicked off in St Andrews, Scotland. Ania Trzebiatowska, a full-time programmer at Sundance, has curated a diverse selection of fiction and non-fiction films for the event. She collaborates with a group of part-time student programmers from the University of St. Andrews, who add a fresh perspective to the festival. The festival is also supported by Joe and Anthony Russo’s AGBO, with the Russos having a personal connection to St Andrews through Joe’s daughter who studied there. The Russos were present at the festival opening, expressing their admiration for the town’s energy and the enthusiasm of its students.

One of the highlights of the festival was the screening of “Last Call,” a short film presented by Tom Holland and his brother Harry. The film follows the story of a mother trying to reconnect with her son and received praise from the audience for its ambition and craftsmanship. Harry shared that he was inspired to create the film while working on his brother’s project “Cherry,” which was shot by the Russos. The theme of mental health, central to “Last Call,” remains relevant years after its creation.

In addition to “Last Call,” the festival featured Naqqash Khalid’s debut feature “In Camera,” which made its debut at Karlovy Vary in 2023. Other notable screenings included Anna Hints’ Sundance-winning documentary “Smoke Sauna Sisterhood,” Daisy Ridley’s “Sometimes I Think About Dying,” and the Russos’ 2002 comedy “Welcome to Collinwood.” The latter, starring George Clooney, William H. Macy, and Sam Rockwell, was produced by Steven Soderbergh, who will be attending Sands for an onstage Q&A with the Russos.

The Sands International Film Festival serves as a tribute to the filmmakers, artists, and visionaries who continue to push the boundaries of cinema. With a mix of established names and emerging talents, the festival provides a platform for diverse voices and storytelling. As the festival continues to grow, it remains a celebration of creativity and innovation in the world of film.