PLACES HALF EMPTY

90min Feature Film 

Director: Dorka Vermes

Writer: Sára Törley Havas

Executive Producer: Béla Tarr

Producer: Botond Lelkes

Producer: Balogh Evelyn

Juli (26), an anxious and introverted woman, falls in love with the free-spirited Noá (32), and finds herself in a lesbian relationship for the first time. Although both are part of Budapest's progressive artistic community, Juli's family disapproves, shattering her belief in their progressive values. Torn between loyalty to her family and her love for Noá, Juli begins leading a double life, navigating a complex web of lies that erodes her sense of self.

The tension peaks as their housing situation spirals at a time of a growing housing crisis. Juli's parents offer to buy her an apartment, but this "gift" forces her to confront her divided loyalties. Though she promises Noá they'll move in together, Juli's growing uncertainty strains their bond. Noá's patience waver as dishonesty and instability take their toll, and distrust begins to unravel the relationship.

Through fragmented, time-jumping scenes, the film explores Juli's journey through shifting living spaces—from the family house to Noá's apartment, a staged "fake flat" for her parents, and finally, the new apartment she convinces herself represents independence. Ultimately, Juli's choices reflect a deeper entanglement in the very systems she sought to escape, leaving her caught between conformity and freedom.