SPACES OF EDUCATION IN FILM FESTIVALETTE CIES 2022​

The eighth edition of the Cinematic Spaces of Education Film Festivalette, showcases two feature-length fiction films and seven documentaries from around the world that promote reflection on the role of idealism in education and social change. The movies explore various forms and shades of idealism, its transformative power, and its potential dark side. It includes award-winning content from The Middle East, North Asia, West Africa, Europe, North America, and South America.

Idealism and hope are vital for tackling challenges in our own lives and more broadly in society. We need idealists to reimagine what is possible, to work to repair and renew. We need idealists to generate alternatives, whether deemed impractical or viable. Idealism can lead us to make more radical demands of ourselves, communities and political leaders and prompt individual and collective acts of change. But, as the famous proverb suggests, “the road to hell is paved with good intentions.” The darker side of the human condition (greed, impulse for power and control, selfinterest) can distort idealism and lead us to dystopian futures. The films in this year’s selection explore the opportunities and tensions between idealism and realism, between utopian and dystopian thinking.

Learn more about the selected films in the festival program.