Synopsis
Opera glasses are necessary to watch the stage from the back rows of the auditorium. If you content yourself with the foyer, you only need alert eyes and instinct: not only for the larger-than-life gestures of musical theatre, but also for the small (self) performances in public space. Checking oneself in the mirror, overzealous re-adjustments of one’s facial expression for a selfie, the inimitable coolness of aging cloakroom attendants – all this is part of the spectacle of visibility. (DOK. Leipzig, Lukas Foerster)There are plenty of red carpets for major stars, maybe enough. A very different location provides the scene for this film, a scene in which, for once, the staff and the guests play the main roles. With a subtle sense of humour, sensual imagery, precise sound design and an ability to unobtrusively follow the introverts while leaving the extroverts space to play to the gallery, the director provides entertaining – in the best sense of the word – observations on the soiree crowd and society in general. The cloakroom of an opera house becomes the stage, and we find ourselves waiting full of anticipation for the next act. The Golden Dove German Competition Short Documentary and Animated Film goes to Mila Zhluktenko for Opera Glasses. (GOLDEN DOVE, DOK. Leipzig, Jury Statement)