Alejandro de Icaza

This atmospheric coming-of-age tale from Ecuador eschews any sentimentality to convey the shyness and confusion of a young girl as she navigates the troubled waters of childhood. An award-winning first feature, carried by poignant, understated performances.

With a patient, 9-minute opening shot Malaventura starts as it means to continue: this slice-of-life, minimalist drama situates its protagonist in their everyday urban environment and asks us not to look away. An excellent debut from Michel Lipkes, an impressively sobering, existential experience.