The inaugural EUNIC Brussels Film Festival will feature the premiere of the Romanian documentary 'Vis.Viață,' directed by Ruxandra Gubernat. The festival is scheduled to take place in Brussels from October 6th to 16th, 2025, serving as a platform for contemporary European narratives and fostering dialogue on pressing European themes.
'Vis.Viață' is set to screen on Thursday, October 9th, 2025, at 6:30 PM at Cinema Vendôme. The documentary offers an intimate look into the lives of Romania's Generation Z, exploring their realities, aspirations, and the unique challenges they face, including drug use.
The film provides a four-year observational journey into the lives of as they navigate their final high school years, a period significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. This generation, born between the mid-1990s and mid-2000s, contends with economic uncertainties and societal pressures. Studies indicate that while Romanian Gen Z members are motivated by financial gains and personal fulfillment, they are also increasingly affected by financial constraints and the stress of responsibilities. Environmental concerns are also prominent, with a significant portion worried about the destruction of nature and pollution.
Director Ruxandra Gubernat, known for her impactful social and cinematic projects, approaches her subject with empathy, capturing how young individuals construct their identities in a rapidly changing world. The film highlights their aspirations, including entrepreneurial ambitions. However, they also grapple with anxieties about the future, such as fears of war, inadequate healthcare, and unemployment.
The EUNIC Brussels Film Festival, in its first year, aims to showcase films that resonate with shared values and contemporary challenges. The festival's objective aligns with the documentary's focus on the evolving experiences and outlook of Europe's youth, numbering over 60 million people, promoting a deeper understanding of their collective journey and the potential for unified approaches to their concerns. The Romanian Cultural Institute in Brussels, a key organizer, plays a vital role in promoting Romanian culture internationally and facilitating cross-cultural exchanges. Cinema Vendôme, the venue for the screening, has a history of celebrating cinema and diverse cultural expressions.