The Newt Congress

For years now, giant talking newts have been used both for their labor and as laboratory animals. The Newt Congress takes place at a conference building surrounded by nature where participants have come together to optimize the exploitation of the animals. The short film is a free adaptation of Karel Čapek‘s War with the Newts.

Directed by Matthias Sahli, Immanuel Esser, The Newt Congress leans on a strong ensemble — Ursula Bienz, Tobias Bienz, Wiebke Mollenhauer — to carry a story that balances spectacle with character.

The film landed with audiences for its craft and performances, and remains one of the most talked-about drama titles of 2022.