Jerusalem Film Festival

"The film explores difficult subjects while making room for humor, compassion, and vitality. It avoids easy answers, choosing instead to observe its characters in all their complexity, vulnerability, and strength. Through an authentic and attentive gaze, the film creates a precise and deeply affecting cinematic experience that stays with the viewer long after the screening ends."

"A poetic, philosophical, and deeply meditative film that invites us on a journey along the Yangtze River. With quiet grace, it reminds us of the value of embracing madness and accepting that, in the long river of life, one must learn to get wet, not just fear the water."

"'Silent Flood' directs its gaze toward what remains beyond the battlefield, discovering there the profound movement of history. With a rare faith in the power of observation, the film crafts a cinematic language that is at once poetic, political, and deeply human. In the shadow of war, it offers an artistic stance that views compassion, attentiveness, and contemplation as acts of resistance."

"The prize for first feature film goes to the movie "17" by Kosara Mitic. A raw, unapologetic punch. Full of rage and skillful cinematography, a very talented director and incredible acting. The film depicts a long silenced violence which must be faced."

"The award goes to Karlis Arnolds Avots in the film Ulya for the embodiment of a character through movement and looks, the courage to be serious and still, the beauty of the expression of body and face."

"We were impressed by the masterful direction and the handling of the film's multiple themes. Borders, European identities, and interpersonal stories are all masterfully explored. We congratulate the director on this film, which has truly impressed us."