The Méliès d’argent Winner at Splat!FilmFest 2026

The 12th edition of Splat!FilmFest, Poland’s International Fantastic Film Festival, has come to a close after ten days of bold, unconventional genre cinema. The festival presented nearly 100 films from around the world, spanning horror, thrillers, fantasy, science fiction, black comedy and other forms of fantastic cinema. As a member of the Méliès International Festivals Federation, Splat!FilmFest continued its commitment to showcasing original visions of European fantastic filmmaking.

And the winner is… 

The winner of the Méliès d’Argent Award for Best European Fantastic Genre Short Film at Splat!FilmFest is Orla directed by Marie Lukáčová (Czechia, 2026).

A rap fairytale of justice, told in three acts. In a kingdom bound by a strict hierarchy and surrounded by a magical wilderness, there lives a young maiden named Jasna. Gifted with sharp wit and a heart full of justice, she stands against the wicked and tyrannical ruler, Volk, who exploits his people. In his wrath, he banishes her on a treacherous journey to a faraway land, one from which none have ever returned. But with courage as her guide, and through overcoming her deepest fears, Jasna discovers a powerful ally in Eagle, the guardian of the forest. Together, they unravel the key to breaking the chains of the kingdom and setting its people free.

The journey of Jasna draws on contemporary ecological and feminist perspectives, highlighting interpersonal acceptance and understanding. The visually challenging form combines live-action scenes with 2D and 3D animation, complemented by musical sequences inspired by the contemporary rap genre.