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Siren opens like a curious sci-fi film but slowly transitions into a compelling story of real life horrors and the harsh realities of growing up in the Middle East. Set in an Israeli high school, Siren gives us a glimpse into the lives of fresh-faced youngsters not quite ready for the world beyond the confines of their school walls. The cinematography is breathtaking, relying on warm colors and natural light to bring out the innocence of the schoolchildren. Siren also shows us that jockeying for position, bullying, cliques, pranks, and flirtations are part of teenage life in every country on every continent. The students' fears and hopes and dreams are universal. The relationships are familiar. And that's ultimately what makes Siren so satisfying. We get to know these kids and the culture in which they are trying to survive - with the added twist that "survival" in this land takes on a more literal meaning than much of the world.

The immense challenge of a short film is in telling a complete, fully-fleshed story in a brief period of time - and the filmmakers do this in under a half hour, in the case of Off the Road (Sortie de Route), and quite elegantly. Two rowdy boys from disparate backgrounds (Paul and Karim, played with shocking authenticity by Benjamin Eggenberg and Samir Melly) find they have a lot more in common than is apparent at first glance. It might sound like a story we've seen told many times - and it is, as it's a classic tale - but it's told with such heart and truth that it transcends expectations. Sortie de Route avoids a lot of coming-of-age tropes by remaining true to its characters - they drive the story more than the reverse. The innate talent in these young actors is one of the most pleasant surprises of the film. And that's why I was left wanting more. Wanting to stay with these kids and see what their next adventure would reveal. The relevance of this story, and the lessons that kids can teach adults, is palpable throughout. There's never been a better time for a film like Sortie de Route.

Suspendu is a captivating coming-of-age drama that's more Darren Aronofsky than John Hughes, with hints of Black Swan as our teen protagonist faces his biggest fears. We can almost feel his pain every time he hits the hard floor. Told with minimal dialogue and gorgeously shot in cinema verité style, Suspendu brings us into a world not unlike our own - where hopes and dreams can be dashed in an instant, and small obstacles feel like life-changing failures. In a film like this the filmmakers can either look for actors who can dance or dancers who can act. This one was a no-brainer. Not only can these young people dance (and act), but they are actual students in leading conservatories who've performed to great accolades. Making the transition to the big screen was a natural for them, especially as they really are their characters. Max Ricat, an accomplished dancer and actor, puts his talents on display here to full effect, with a stunning performance that carries the film from opening to closing frame. He makes Suspendu both a heartwrenching and a joyful experience - no small task.