SCHLiNGEL Abu Dhabi - A Film Festival for Children and Youth

A Butterfly's Heart (2021)

Sensitive young Juozapas lives a sheltered and solitary life. While other children spend their days together, he devotes his time to his passion for insects and butterflies. Inside an abandoned mansion, he has created a remarkable world filled with colourful beetles, crickets and delicate butterflies. When the curious and spirited Rugilė moves into the area, his life begins to change. A close friendship develops between them, helping Juozapas overcome his loneliness and face life's challenges with new confidence. This moving coming-of-age story explores friendship, acceptance, courage and the importance of embracing one's uniqueness.


The Secret of the Stolen Mask (2026)

When Johanna’s grandfather Kiko visits Germany from Tanzania for the first time, a trip to a museum leads to an unexpected discovery. Kiko is convinced that a traditional mask on display once belonged to his family and was taken during the colonial era. Before they can uncover the truth, however, the mask is stolen and Kiko becomes the main suspect. Together with her tech-savvy classmate Anton, Johanna embarks on an exciting investigation to clear her grandfather’s name and find the real thief. As they follow a trail of clues, the two friends learn more about history, identity and belonging. This engaging family adventure combines mystery, friendship and humour while encouraging young audiences to think about justice, courage and cultural heritage.

Rocca Changes the World (2019)

Eleven-year-old Rocca is brave, curious and full of optimism. When her father leaves for a space mission, she moves from a space base in Kazakhstan to Hamburg to live with her grandmother. After an unexpected turn of events leaves Rocca to manage on her own, she faces every challenge with confidence, humour and a strong sense of justice. Whether at school, with new friends or while helping people in need, Rocca proves that kindness, courage and determination can make a real difference. This uplifting family film celebrates friendship, compassion and the belief that even one person can help change the world for the better.

Best of SCHLiNGEL Shorts - ALL in the Moving Image Room

A lovingly curated selection of award-winning and internationally acclaimed short films for young audiences. These imaginative stories unfold without words and captivate viewers through stunning visuals, humour, and heartwarming adventures.  Writing HomeA young female bark beetle loses her home in a forest fire and becomes separated from her family. As she journeys through the human world, she learns to face new challenges with courage and never lose hope.

Master Painter iiiiiiiif 

The creative octopus iiiiiiiif loves painting with ink in his studio. But when the lights suddenly go out, his world is turned upside down and he must find new ways to express his creativity. 

Wolfie 

An illustrator strives for perfection. When an ink blot unexpectedly brings a little wolf to life, she discovers that mistakes can sometimes lead to the most wonderful surprises. 

House Trap

When a mouse steals the final piece of a puzzle, a chaotic chase begins that ultimately brings a family closer together. A humorous story about togetherness and teamwork. 

The Little One and the Giant 

A small rodent wanders through what seems to be a deserted world in search of life. Along the way, it encounters a giant and learns that friendship often appears where it is least expected. 

First Flight 

Three young birds are about to take their very first flight. But when a group of frogs starts an unexpected show of its own, the big moment turns into a lively and hilarious adventure.

Pingu & Bear 

Pingu and Bear share a big dream: they want to fly. Together, the two friends embark on a fast-paced adventure where friendship, courage, and teamwork take centre stage. 

Akiko, the Flying Ape (2024)

Young Akiko the monkey lives happily in the zoo and enjoys visiting his animal friends every day. One day, however, his grandfather reveals a surprising secret: the zoo is not the true home of their family. Their real home is a vast forest far beyond the city. When a remote-controlled airplane crashes right in front of them, Akiko embarks on an extraordinary adventure. Determined and brave, he sets out to find his relatives in the forest so they can help free the animals still living in captivity. Along the way, he meets a variety of animal companions who support him in overcoming challenges and pursuing his dream of freedom. Full of humour, action and charming characters, the film is a heartwarming story about friendship, courage, solidarity, and the importance of nature and belonging.

Rock My Heart (2017)

Seventeen-year-old Jana lives with a congenital heart condition and faces a life-changing decision. While her family and doctors place their hopes in a new surgical procedure, Jana refuses to undergo the operation. Everything changes when she meets the spirited thoroughbred horse Rock My Heart. A remarkable bond develops between the two, giving Jana renewed courage and a fresh outlook on life. When she is offered the opportunity to ride Rock My Heart in an important race, she embarks on a challenging journey filled with hope, friendship and self-discovery. This touching drama is a powerful story about resilience, believing in oneself, and finding the strength to pursue one's dreams despite adversity.

By car: You can drive to the Cultural Foundation from anywhere in Abu Dhabi. You can park there for free.   

By public transport: The Cultural Foundation is accessible by bus. The nearest bus station would be Abu Dhabi Bus station which is 1.2 Kilometeres away from the Cultural Foundation.   

By taxi: You can also take a taxi to the Cultural Foundation. It's a famous destination and most drivers would be familiar with its location.