In a year where it has felt like time has stood still, PÖFF Shorts looks to the future with the New Talents Competition - a category exclusive to student films, presenting the next generation of filmmaking talent and the burgeoning voices of tomorrow.

From relationship dramas to body horrors; dystopian futures to mundane work lives; anger, heartbreak and injustice to humour, beauty and connection.

The programmes on offer are indeed eclectic, but the films that make them all share the trait of being singular, bold stories, told with personality, convention-challenging vigour and a deep sense of humanity coarsing through their veins.

Whilst the world of cinema currently fights daily battles to ensure its survival, these programmes celebrate the work of emerging filmmakers, and hopefully act as a remedy, a reminder and a resounding affirmation that we all have plenty to look forward to.

There's still fight left in us yet.

Malaika Kegode, Varun Raman, Iris Dosen and Lia Katsiantridou