South Korea Stills
2 frames
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Credits
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Synopsis
This is the story about 'April,' a young girl in her 20s, who finds herself entangled in conflicts with her boyfriend, grappling with the pressures of a demanding workplace, and navigating a sense of direction lessness in her life following the sudden passing of her sole family member, her grandmother.
Director's Statement
At 25, I gradually began facing new pressures and contemplating my life more deeply. For a long time, I have liked standing on the roof of a building and staring. Almost every day, a few birds soar in the sky. I watch them and some thoughts gradually pop into my head: Do they also have moments when they can't find their way? Do they also continue to fly when they can't find their way? Not only young people but at any age, any person will have moments of confusion and contemplate self-worth. That's why I am writing the story "Semper Liber" --- a story that is ordinary but probably experienced by everyone, about growing up, women, and courage.
What makes this one special
- Nominated in 3 AFIN categoriesBest Emerging Female Director · Best Lead Performance · Best Student Film
- A first-time filmmaker
- A student film
From the Judges
From the Judges
The shot choices and framing drew real admiration from the panel, composed with a care that gives the film its poise. They found the performances believable across the ensemble, with the lead carrying the material with genuine presence. It struck them as a thoughtful, well-made piece about self-worth and finding one's way.
Director's Biography
SiWen Shi Director
Siwen Shi, a girl born in ShanXi, China. She entered the university in 2017 to start studying film. After graduation, she decided to pursue an MFA in Film in Korea. In the process of participating in projects and studying, more and more she realized that film is something she loves. ‘Semper Liber’ is the debut film.
Trailer
Official laurels
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SEMPER LIBER: ALWAYS FREE was an official Nominee for Best Emerging Female Director, Best Lead Performance and Best Student Film at the AFIN International Film Festival 2024, a Top 100 Best Reviewed and IMDb-qualifying festival.
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- Open the AFIN International Film Festival event page on IMDb and choose the 2024 edition.
- Choose Edit (contribute), then Awards, and add your film under the category (Best Emerging Female Director, Best Lead Performance and Best Student Film) with the outcome shown on your laurels above.
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