Set in ‘80s Syria, near the border with Turkey, Neighbors views village life through the eyes of the expressive and adorable Sero, a 6-year-old who is as inquisitive as he is innocent. With an uncle he adores and parents he respects, Sero later discovers how an us-vs.-them perspective destroys relationships and the joys of life. A tender, humorous and at times devastating, coming-of-age epic. Inspired by the director’s personal experiences. Sponsored by Coffee By Design

‘Kurdish-Swiss director Mano Khalil is making his return to the festival to present Neighbours in a world premiere. And once again, he is turning his attention towards his native land and the conflict exhausting it, this time through the gaze of a carefree child.’ Cineuropa

Festivals: San Francisco Jewish FF (Critics Jury Prize), Shanghai International FF (Best Film), Solothurn International FF (Best Film)