Synopsis
Max, a young ice cream vendor with aspirations of becoming a techno musician, is paralyzed by fear just before stepping on stage at a rave club. Forced on an introspective yet visually expressive journey, Max is confronted by his insecurity and the cold presence of Alex, the guardian of loneliness. But when he unexpectedly meets the charming Helen, she is determined to free him from the clutches of self-doubt.
Max, a young ice cream vendor with aspirations of becoming a techno musician, is paralyzed by fear just before stepping on stage at a rave club. Forced on an introspective yet visually expressive journey, Max is confronted by his insecurity and the cold presence of Alex, the guardian of loneliness. But when he unexpectedly meets the charming Helen, she is determined to free him from the clutches of self-doubt.
Full credits
- Section
- International Student Competition
- Director
- Roberts Vanags
- Choreographer
- Karīna Lapšina
- Production countries
- Latvia
- Production year
- 2024
- Duration
- 22 minutes
- Producer
- Nikola Ozola, Emīls Alps
- Website
- https://neonorma.lv/en/portfolio/north-pole/
You might also like:

To be Present but Sometimes Forgotten New Dutch
Merel Severs, 2024, NL, 12 min
In this cinematic adaptation of Severs’ stage performance Coerced and Freely Given ('24), three performers train together to endure the world’s violences and reclaim space for vulnerability and anger through care and solidarity. Known for her unique blend of choreography and martial arts, Severs delves into the body’s resilience, vulnerability, and ability to resist societal and political pressures.

Her Body New Dutch
Daphne Lucker, 2024, NL, 14 min
Sophie, a curious and healthy eleven-year-old girl, is confined to a hospital bed under her mother’s constant watch. When she meets Buck, a cheerful nine-year-old adventurer, they embark on a journey of self-discovery and movement. As they explore together, Sophie begins to question the reality of her situation, wondering if she is truly as unwell as her mother insists.

Sleepless Until I Die International Student Competition
Chorong Yang & Jiaqi Yu, 2024, US, 9 min
Three people tormented by relentless anxiety and prolonged sleeplessness, slowly lose their human forms. As their condition worsens, they evolve into monsters, doomed to an eternity without rest.