tu
9:38, 16mm b+w, 2020
narrative short film
Written & Directed by Suzanne Friesen
"tu" translates to "here", in the Polish language.
In the shape of a visual poem tu narratively explores a meditative respite from the human condition, and formally investigates the relationship between viewer and medium via temporal stasis and "play back".
Here we are, in a film where memories, identity, and inter-generational trauma and diaspora become merged and confused. Several voices culminate in unrest, but in parallel, one unshakeable and foundational truth remains: “I am here.”
Vancouver International Film Festival (2020) - World Premiere
Austin Arthouse Film Festival (2020)
Riga International Short Film Festival 2ANNAS (2021) - European Premiere
Beirut International Women Film Festival (2021)
Philosophical Film Festival (2021)
On Art - Poland (2021)
Dreamers of Dreams Film Festival (2021) - Winner 'Best Poetry Short'
Torino Underground CineFest (2022)
DOC LA Los Angeles Documentary Film Festival (2022) - Winner 'Best Film'
Toronto International Women Film Festival (2023) - Winner 'Best Canadian Filmmaker'
![](https://format.creatorcdn.com/42b645f3-5895-4dfe-9979-e8226024d318/0/0/0/0,0,2042,1234,2042,1200/0-0-0/5bdb466f-7342-42fd-9670-8da4912eb3f5/1/1/tu_friesen_publicitystill_1.jpg?fjkss=exp=2040508159~hmac=55a2ffcdbd7f994b4d1ec1d3b9e8bac00c17b580e2ea9a6a945cd585f1115018)