World of Work and Cinematic Art, Between Political Reality and Aesthetic Rebellion – an evening that builds bridges. From the raw poetry of Aki Kaurismäki to the sharp media critique of Total Refusal, and up to the dizzying heights of queer self-assertion on a construction crane in Beirut – the festival’s opening weaves cinema with social reflection. Representatives from labor market and education policy meet filmmakers, actors, and activists. Through conversations and images, questions of work, identity, and resistance unfold. An opening that shows: film is not only entertainment – but also a tool for insight, an act of solidarity, and an invitation to discussion.

Welcome speeches and discussions with: Renate Anderl (AK), Marko Miloradovic (waff), Winfried Göschl (AMS Vienna), Ernst Gesslbauer (OeAD), Herbert Schweiger (VHS), Jeanne Werner (actress), Total Refusal, and many others

Moderation: Barbara Waschmann (Staytuned, normale.at)