Black Daruma + Short Film: Spirit of Independence 18

Struggling with unemployment and a lack of purpose in life, Ryan impulsively buys a Japanese ‘luck’ doll at a local emporium and takes it home to his girlfriend, hoping his fortunes might change. Reluctant to entertain his wishful thinking and annoying pranks with the Doll, Louise finally persuades Ryan to throw the Doll away. But somehow the Doll reappears and tension in the house grows as circumstances for Ryan go from bad to worse.

​Black Daruma is a uniquely shot film, told entirely from the perspective of a doll. Made by local filmmakers, Fionn and Toby Watts, the film will have its world premiere at the festival.

Daruma will be supported by the short film:

Lucid

Directed by Nick Rubino

Running Time: 17min

While living off the grid in rural Ohio, a son’s father goes missing. His estranged uncle travels to join him in hopes of finding answers.