Bonobo

Bonobo presents a look into the issue of living together. We see people who are brought together by necessity, as a result of the urban life. The events that cause the rising tension of these people have been depicted in a realistic language. This realistic language draws us into the film, and also makes us think about the topic of living together.

Fine cinema with interesting use of space and humor

If you are talented storyteller, the recipe is simple: mix one high-rise boulding, some ordinary people and bloody elevator. Result? Bonobo - wonderfull, gripping short about frustration.

The movie follows three different characters. There is an old disabled guy Felix, the type of neighbor who is always calling police and yelling at children; single mother Ana, struggling with her move and young guard Seydou, who wants to be a dancer (you may say he's a dreamer*). When the elevator of their boulding breaks down, the fates of Felix, Ana and Seydou intertwine towards an intense finale.

Young director Zoel Aeschbacher gives a realistic look on everyday life, social problems, relationships and clearly shows the anger and frustration of people who feel trapped by their circumstances.

The cinematography and editing are great, the story is really well written, characters are likeable and the actors do a very good job. Emotionaly Bonobo is a rollarcoaster. I think we'll be seeing a lot more of Zoel Aeschbacher.

* But he's not the only one.

I saw 'Bonobo' at the 2018 Melbourne International Film Festival and thought it a cleverly interwoven story of intersecting lives, all influenced by the spasmodic behaviour of the elevator. It was all the more impressive on a second viewing. It winds up the audience with all the frustrations of modern life: bureaucrats who don't listen, companies with no service, social injustice. It's a universal slice of life in 2018 we all can recognise.

Bonobo is an impressive short film! Our program jury has voted the short into our 14th edition of 20minmax Short Film Festival. Congratulations!