With each new edition, the Telemach Youth Film Festival Sarajevo (OFF) brings not only a fresh film selection but also a visual identity that carries a powerful message.
The poster series designed for the Youth Film Festival Sarajevo (OFF) carries strong symbolism through the visual language of the switch. Each poster raises a question of choice – between noise and silence, violence and culture, passivity and engagement. The central poster of the series features a switch with the positions ON and OFF, alluding to the festival’s acronym and inviting the audience to activate – whether it’s about change within themselves or in society. Additional posters explore binary contrasts and clashes of ideas – “BOOKS / GUNS”, “VIOLENCE / CULTURE” – as universal dilemmas of contemporary society.
The visuals are simple, brutalist, and direct, drawing inspiration from the Swiss design style. The intention is to provoke, to spark reflection, and to leave a strong emotional impact.
“ON / OFF” Poster
The visual centerpiece of the series. A switch shown with the labels “ON” and “OFF” refers to the festival’s acronym, creating a play on meaning – is OFF the end, silence, or a beginning? It invites the audience to shift states – from passive to active, from disengagement to involvement. Aesthetically minimal but conceptually rich, this poster sets the tone for the entire series.
“BOOKS / GUNS” Poster
Books versus weapons – a symbol of education against violence. This poster uses contrast as a metaphor for the choices that shape society: a culture of knowledge or destruction. Intentionally presented without context, the viewer is invited to make their own judgment and take a stance.
“VIOLENCE / CULTURE” Poster
The conflict between raw aggression and civilizational progress is portrayed simply but powerfully. This poster evokes an inner struggle – both personal and societal – between impulse and values. Through it, OFF communicates its position as a platform for culture, dialogue, and resistance to violence.
The author of the 2025 visuals is the Festival’s creative producer, Vito Mrvelj.
This year’s edition of the Festival begins on July 18 and will run until July 25. The 17th Telemach OFF closed its calls for film submissions across all categories, including the OFF Co-Production Market, on April 30. Throughout May and June, most of the program sections will be announced. As in previous years, OFF will also present its special festival guests shortly before the event begins.
