POTATO, 14min., Sweden
Directed by Birgitta Liljedahl
When Mother 1 (46) struggles with a tired body, a failed bun-baking project and hopeless over-aged children, Lisa (22) and Dennis (64), conflicts soon escalate beyond what's accepted by The State of Sweden. The doorbell rings. And The Inspector enters, providing the States quality solution: a shining, new Mother 2 (27). A Mother that fulfills all criteria, not only for the children and the state, but that might even interest a most critical, new Father. Mother 1 fights for her life against the Inspector, the State and Mother 2's tetra-organic cabbage from Peru, but soon finds herself deported to Svalbard, by the police. When Mother 1 strikes back, the children will meet a force they've never witnessed before. POTATO is an absurd, socially critical comedy that takes place in a future more close than we would like..

Get to know the filmmaker:

1. What motivated you to make this film?
We are building a society where perfection is demanded. Always. It's insane. And boring. And just bad business. The human as a species, is magic, where development comes from imperfection, failures and mistakes.

2. From the idea to the finished product, how long did it take for you to make this film?
One year. Efficient time? 1-2 months.

3. How would you describe your film in two words!?
Absurd future.

4. What was the biggest obstacle you faced in completing this film?
Financing and time constraints during shooting.
(The team is a dreamteam 100% highly professionals, with high engagement and creating magic despite conditions!)

5. What were your initial reactions when watching the audience talking about your film in the feedback video?
They got it!!! (pure happiness - it's an absurd story, not everyone gets it...)

6. When did you realize that you wanted to make films?
When I was working with UN in Haiti after the earthquake 2010. Late night. I was sitting in the dusty tent, taking a mental break from the brutal horror, writing on a follow up on a novel. Then a new story came. In pictures. And I was stuck with screenplays ever since. I feel like, I didn't choose film . It chose me.

7. What film have you seen the most in your life?
Star Wars, Lord of the Rings and Matrix

8. What other elements of the festival experience can we and other festivals implement to satisfy you and help you further your filmmaking career?
Physical festivals where your films are screened and you can join

9. You submitted to the festival via FilmFreeway. How has your experiences been working on the festival platform site?
Great!

10. What is your favorite meal?
Cheese platter

11. What is next for you? A new film?
Yes. An absurd roadtrip in the Arctic, where two daughters fight over the urn with their Moms ashes. In the backseat: the dead Mom (87) crowded with herself, as the young woman before she had the kids (27). They have unfinished business to clear out.... The crowded little car is a pressure cooker ready to explode....