We are delighted to be partnering with Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) once again and working with the Silver Screen Critics as they comment on this year’s programme. Read below, as Lorna Cady gives her thoughts on Silent Trees.
This documentary highlights the difficult journey that refugees from the Middle East who have attempted to seek refuge in Europe in recent years. Silent Trees focuses on one family who face unimaginable hardships. Runa Husni is a 16-year-old girl, studious and thoughtful, who is forced to take charge of her whole family. Tragically, in Belarus, her mother — while pregnant with her sixth child — dies of hypothermia due to the terrible conditions in the forests.
Runa is left to hold the family together — her father is incapacitated in the face of grief. There are four young, energetic brothers to care for — in harrowing conditions. In spite of the horrendous situation, Runa finds time to reflect on everything . She draws — stark black-and-white images of the trees surrounding them. In the film, these drawings become animated — the roots of evil-looking trees dance and grab at fleeing figures in the forest — a horrifying representation of the family’s situation.
The border between Belarus and Poland is sectioned off with barbed wire, although the refugees had been promised entry to Poland. Eventually, however, they manage to cross and are granted hostel-type accommodation. Runa works on her language skills, and forms friendships with the Polish helpers in the hostel. One local girl becomes a true friend.
Later, the family move into a flat and Runa and the boys attend school. Their father realises he is best suited to looking after the flat, as his lack of language skills and illiteracy make employment impossible — despite his past experience working as a barber. The threat of deportation hangs heavy over their heads. With ambitions of becoming a lawyer, Runa wants to stay in Poland. Her drawings become animated, illustrating the powerful story of Runa and her father dealing with the Polish authorities.
Silent Trees offers hard-hitting insight into the plight of refugees, and the dreadful situations that arise in today’s world. Seeing Runa’s family struggle, drives home the emotional truth of the horrors real families are enduring.
Silent Trees screened at DIFF on 27th February 2025.
For 11 unforgettable days in February, Dublin transforms into a vibrant hub of cinematic excellence as the Dublin International Film Festival (DIFF) brings the best of Irish and international cinema to the capital in a celebration of storytelling. The festival welcomes lovers of film, dreamers, and curious newcomers alike.
From world premieres to intimate screenings, exclusive Q&As to parties and celebrations, DIFF offers a unique journey into the world of cinema — all set against the buzz and energy of the Irish capital. It’s a contemporary cinema experience that connects communities, ignites ideas, and inspires a lasting love for film throughout the year.
Read more about the work they do here or submit your film here.
