One morning, the police block all entrances and exits of a building in Berlin without explaining the sudden lockdown. Confined to their homes, the residents are only allowed to the courtyard connecting the different wings of the building. Soon, they become consumed by paranoia. Is there a new pandemic or perhaps a terrorist attack? Could one of them be responsible for this drastic measure, and if so, who is to blame?

A 2023 production directed by Aslı Özge, the film explores the consequences of the created climate of fear that has permeated the  world, particularly over the last two decades. From terrorist attacks to the COVID pandemic, we witness the impact on a society where trust has eroded, citizens are suspicious of even their close ones, and whistle- blowing has become the norm. All is reflected in the interactions among the residents of the building where the film unfolds. Meanwhile, the
theme of urban gentrification plays a significant role in this tense narrative as well, as seen in Özge’s most recent film, Faruk, also featured in this year’s edition of the festival.