PIAFFE

The title Piaffe comes from dressage riding and refers to one of the most challenging disciplines. In her debut feature film, director Ann Oren keeps a firm grip on the reins at the start, but eventually allows the film to break into a fully fledged gallop.

With its vivid, colourful 16mm cinematography and delicate sound design, Piaffe is a highly sensual experience. The soundtrack is reminiscent of an ASMR sound wave rolling out over the main character's body. The scenography has been painstakingly executed down to the smallest prop. The result is a mystical, captivating film about a quiet, modest woman who goes through an inexplicable transformation.

About the director
Ann Oren (b. 1979, Tel-Aviv) studied film and art at The School of Visual Arts in New York and is now based in Berlin. After a period focusing on art/video installations, Oren set her sights on film direction. In 2022, she premiered her first feature film, Piaffe, at the Film Festival in Locarno. The debut garnered praise for its visual expression and boldness. Piaffe won the award for best film in the New Directors Competition at the Chicago International Film Festival.