On Thursday, March 26, the festival’s opening night at the Grand Eldorado auditorium at UGC De Brouckère drew nearly 700 people to a sold-out screening—an incredible display of energy and enthusiasm.

Hosted with wit and ease by Lola, comedian and MC for the evening, the event unfolded in a warm, welcoming atmosphere, setting the tone for a festival all about connection and discovery.

We were especially proud to open this year’s edition with The Extraordinary Journey of Mister Jack, directed by Sarah Moon Howe—a Belgian film that celebrates the richness and creativity of the country’s cinema. Both moving and uplifting, the film takes audiences on a journey filled with hope, resilience, and possibility, encouraging everyone to believe in their dreams and in the power of meaningful encounters.

After the screening, audiences were treated to a surprise live performance by the film’s circus troupe, bringing its poetic world to life on stage and extending the magic beyond the screen.

A heartfelt thank you to our partners—especially UGC—for their invaluable support, and to Sarah Moon Howe and Jacques, whose work brought this remarkable project to life and truly resonated with the audience.

An unforgettable evening, and the perfect way to kick off the festival.