The Loop of Ouroboros

In an unknown place and time, a female hero embarks on a journey to transcend societal norms and gender roles, overcoming a series of symbolic trials in the process, to reach her true self. "The Loop of Ouroboros" invites the audience into a narrative woven with mythology and symbols, prompting contemplation around themes of personal transformation, infinite cycles, and individuation. In this sense, "The Loop of Ouroboros" is an extraordinary short film that offers an exploration of the complexity of inner journeys.

About the director:

Derya Polat graduated from the Ege University with a degree in Biochemistry and is currently moved to Canada. She works on sustainability standarts, the climate crisis, and circularity as an sustainability editor, content writer and educator. In addition to her academic pursuits, she has had a long-standing interest in cinema, and she took on the roles of screenwriter and director for her first film, "The Loop of Ouroboros," as part of a joint project between the Izmir Film and Television Producers Association and the EU Civil Society Association's "Media's Lost Eyes." She remains actively engaged in artistic production, focusing on issues related to the climate crisis and gender equality.

Director Statement:

Years ago, I followed the symbols that i saw in my dreams, and now I find myself in a real dream. Our protagonist embarks on a journey to discover their true self, transcending the historically defined endless cycles. After confronting shadows and progressing through trials with awareness, they reach their essence through a healthy ego. Upon returning, they confront a world that lives without questioning the norms imposed by society and family. The selfish and unhealthy ego cycles that modern society has fallen into take us away from nature and unity of meaning. As a result, modern individuals have become individualized but have yet to embark on the journey of individuation, consuming without questioning, living by rigid judgments and dogmas, and straying from justice and equality. Perhaps the mission of modern humanity is to embark on a journey towards the essence. From a macro perspective, all of humanity is on an infinite journey as heroes. However, what the hero needs to see is the absence of a final destination. The goal is not only to see but also, just as the hero in the film continues their journey after seeing so much, to reach their essence, to flourish with it, and to realize that they are 'that essence.' Afterward, one is free to navigate the world as that essence. Both the self and the world share the same essence. Therefore, it is unnecessary for the hero to turn inward. Wherever and whichever path the hero chooses, they are now in the presence of seeing eyes, in the peace of their own essence. The film invites all viewers to embark on this journey in their own lives and to establish a profound connection with their essence, as well as with the shared essence of the world, inviting them to open the doors to infinity.