YUGO MANCHESTER, 13min., Netherlands
Directed by Daniel Rodrigues Correia
“MARIBOR, YUGO MANCHESTER” is a captivating dance short-film that takes the audience on an immersive journey through the evolution of the city’s industry, rise, and fall in Maribor (Slovenia) during the 20th century. Through mesmerizing choreography and powerful storytelling, the film unravels the transformation of Maribor from an industrial powerhouse to a cultural gem. Each dance sequence illuminates key historical events that shaped the city’s identity, celebrating its triumphs, resilience, and exploring the impact of the changing industrial landscape. Seamlessly blending history and artistry, “MARIBOR, YUGO MANCHESTER” invites audiences to experience the beauty and power of dance as it brings Maribor’s captivating story to life.
https://www.instagram.com/maribor_yugo_manchester/
Get to know the filmmaker:
1. What motivated you to make this film?
The goal of this short dance film was to show the journey through the legacy of development, rise and fall of industry in Maribor in the 20th century. We wanted to show, through choreography, the transformation of the city, which was once considered the Yugoslav “Manchester City”.
2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
It took around 1.5 years from the concept to final mastering.
3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
A Legacy Journey
4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
One of the main challenges was to find the locations to shoot the film and to get the right costumes.
5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
It’s really fascinating to see people’s comments and their points of view. I was especially happy to see that they understood the concept and idea we tried to pass.
6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
I got invited by the dance school to think about a film concept that would connect dance and the city… and this idea came along after a few brainstorms. We wanted to show how important the industry was for the city and how everyone living there was connected to that past.
7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
One of my favourit films and also a big inspiration for this film is Dancer in the Dark by Bojrk.
8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Posting and sharing images of the films awarded and selected on the social media pages would be great.
9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Great, I love the platform.
10. What is your favorite meal?
A Portuguese dish called “Bacalhau com Natas” (Codfish with cream)
11. What is next for you? A new film?
I’m currently working on a new project for 2025 – a documentary about dance. And I am a video editor currently editing a long documentary about street kids playing cricket in India.
Matthew Toffolo's Summary 