Hungarian animation in the spotlight: MOME film at Annecy
Focusing on the dynamic between training and coaching abuse, the film provides an intimate look into the world of rhythmic gymnastics from the perspective of Kata, a young athlete. Behind the glittering costumes, the smiles, and the synchronized routines, the harsh realities of the sport come into focus, as teenage gymnasts are often subjected to relentless pressure from their coaches. The psychological and physical demands of preparing for the Olympics gradually wears Kata down, draining her enthusiasm, strength and perseverance with each passing moment. Once a passionate competitive athlete, she is forced to confront the question of where the team ends and where she begins, embarking on a journey to rediscover her sense of self and her place in the world.
The Last Drop is a deeply personal film for the Anna Tőkés, drawing on her own experiences as a member of the Hungarian rhythmic gymnastics national team for twelve years, during which time she experienced extreme and often shocking training methods.
“When making the film, I was driven by a desire to spark a conversation among athletes about the pressures they face and encourage meaningful dialogue,” said the filmmaker, who also conducted in-depth research for the film.
Produced by MOME Anim with support from the National Film Institute, The Last Drop was completed in 2024 and has already garnered widespread acclaim in the festival circuit. It premiered internationally at the Sarajevo Film Festival before being screened at the CineFest Miskolc International Film Festival, Friss Kakas (Fresh Rooster), and most recently, the 44th Hungarian Film Festival, where it won the Special Prize for Short Animated Films. Prior to this, the film had already received significant professional recognition, earning certificates of merit from Cinemira DIGIC Pictures and Primanima. In 2021, it was awarded development support in the Rising Star section of the CEE Animation Forum. Before its upcoming screening in France, the film will also be showcased at Monstra, one of Portugal’s most prominent animation festivals, which begins today, and will compete at the Stuttgart ITFS International Animation Festival in May.
Visually, the film reflects the grace of rhythmic gymnastics through clean, geometric shapes and a colour palette that mirrors the emotional shifts of the characters. The sound design, incorporating the sounds of cracking bones and stretching muscles, plays a key role in building the film’s atmosphere. Along with its social sensitivity, the film tackles an important issue that affects many but is seldom discussed openly, contributing to its well-deserved success.
The film, which received the MOME Rector’s Special Award, has been praised for faithfully reflecting the director's vision, with her mastery serving as an inspiration for future graduates.
The film was produced by József Fülöp, edited by Judit Czakó, with dramaturgy by Zsófi Ruttkay, music by Balázs Alpár, and sound design by Péter Benjámin Lukács.
In 2025, Hungarian animation will take centre stage at the Annecy International Animation Festival, introducing a curated selection of artists, workshops, leading production companies, and emerging talent, championed by the National Film Institute to mark the 110th anniversary of Hungarian animation.
Trailer: https://vimeo.com/1022092040?share=copy
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tokes_anna_/
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