XR Stories brings new immersive experiences to Aesthetica Short Film Festival

XR Stories is to run the VR Lab at the 2024 Aesthetica Short Film Festival, providing specialist technical support and equipment to immerse visitors in new stories and perspectives.

Taking place in York from 6 – 10 November 2024, Aesthetica is a BAFTA-qualifying international festival that encompasses short film, virtual reality (VR) experiences and games and shines a light on independent film and digital culture. 

In parallel to their role running the lab, XR Stories has also worked with the UAL London College of Communication to co-programme the event, selecting and curating content to connect audiences to diverse new experiences. 

Taking place in The Hospitium in York’s Museum Gardens, the lab comprises four separate strands:

• Inner Worlds: Personal narratives that explore the human condition, these experiences bring intimate emotional journeys to life, delving into themes of grief, self-acceptance, mental health and relationships.
• Cultural Tapestries: Travel across the globe and through time as these VR experiences immerse you in rich cultural histories and identities. From the Māori legends of Aotearoa to the struggles of Palestinian women preserving their homes, these stories weave together heritage, resilience and tradition.
• Echoes of Change: These powerful narratives explore pressing social and environmental issues including homelessness, sexual assault, climate change and human rights. 
• Dreamscapes and Dimensions: This collection pushes the boundaries of reality and imagination, blending hyper realistic visuals with fantasy including a fable about a cosmonaut’s visit to a strange planet. 

Entry to the VR lab is permitted with an Aesthetica Short Film Festival pass, available to purchase on the ASFF website.

Image courtesy of Aesthetica: A still from ‘Missing 10 Hours’ VR experience directed by Fanni Fazakas.

Published on 21 October 2024