The Nature of Tide

Estere, a woman in her late twenties, drifts between reality and dreamlike visions as she navigates an emotionally charged evening. Her journey begins in a peaceful meadow but is quickly disrupted by a pang of disappointment that shifts her into a bustling bar, where she meets Leo—her new, enigmatic love interest. As the night progresses, their dialogue is rich with unspoken tension and surreal imagery. Leo flickers between his real self and fluid, shifting patterns, while Estere’s thoughts unravel into visions: swirling silhouettes, staring eyes, and a mysterious Giant rising from the sea. These dreamscapes reflect her inner turmoil—uncertainty, longing, and the need for true connection. Misunderstandings arise, but through subtle reconciliation and the symbolic exchange of a ribbon, Estere begins to see Leo’s sincerity. Her perspective transforms, dissolving confusion and merging inner and outer realities. A visually poetic tale of perception, emotion, and fragile human connection.

Director’s statement
The Nature of Tide explores how human perception shapes reality. It follows Estere, a young woman caught in emotional tides where longing and fear collide. Her present is colored by past disappointments, distorting her view of a budding relationship with Leo. Though drawn to him, Estere is more entangled with her own inner world than with him—reacting to how the relationship makes her feel. Leo, unaware, remains in his carefree bubble, unable to see her emotional depth. Their differing temperaments and unmet needs lead to miscommunication and mistrust. As Leo grows more attentive, Estere becomes more confused, perceiving him as both distant and caring. Her journey is one of self-realization—shifting from reacting to emotions to observing them. This opens a space for dialogue and understanding. The film poses questions: Can we trust our perception? Is real closeness possible without first understanding ourselves?