The narrative short, The Resistance, had its World Premiere in the Fusion Shorts Block 7 at Dances With Films LA 2026. Written and directed by Natalie Schwan, the film is produced by Jessica Olthof. The film was screened on Thursday, June 25, 2026, at the TCL Chinese Theater in Hollywood, CA. The film is based on a real-life event in 1943.
About: In Nazi-occupied Belgium, Eva’s sheltered life fractures after a brutal act of violence forces her to confront the cost of willful denial. Drawn into a covert Resistance group championed by her sister Helene, she finds small ways to help Jewish citizens survive under tightening control. But as the danger escalates, so does their ambition. Alongside Pierre and Gérard, Eva and Helene prepare for a daring operation targeting a prisoner train bound for Auschwitz: an act that could save lives or cost them everything. As night falls, Eva must decide how far she’s willing to go in her newfound defiance.
Set in 1943 Nazi‑occupied Belgium, Eva (Ella‑June Henrard) is living in her world but fully informed about what is happening to her neighbors, until one day in broad daylight. The actress’s performance of the transition in her life appears authentic, from passive survival into action – resistance. Eva decides to join her sister Helene (Cielke Bessemans), who is already part of a covert network, one Eva had avoided. Small acts escalate to a dangerous mission to save prisoners on a train bound for Auschwitz. The film also stars Felix Meyer and Michel Bauwens, among others.
The 14-minute film was shot in Belgium with a nearly entirely Belgian cast and crew and was produced by an American production company.
I have attended the Austin Jewish Film Festival for many years and seen great films. This narrative short would be a good fit for long-term and new film festival attendees. The performances are top-notch with their portrayal of real-life characters. I have seen films that have highlighted the transport of people to the camps, but his story focuses on those who took steps to save lives as best they could.
About the 29th Annual Dances With Films: LA Film Festival (June 18-28)
Los Angeles’ largest independent film festival screened 279 films, including 36 World Premieres of Narrative and Documentary Features, and 4 North American Premieres.
Jay Silverman’s YALE makes its World Premiere as the Opening Night Selection, and Adam Hoelzel’s TENDER makes its World Premiere as the Closing Night Selection.
This year’s DWF: LA’s lineup included 184 short films (99 narrative and 21 documentaries, 32 midnight, 15 Kidz section, 17 Downbeat/Music), with an impressive number of films making world, North American, or U.S. premieres.
Source: DWF LA 2026