Alexandra Matthaiou's short film Free Eliza selected for Cannes

The short film 'Free Eliza (Notes on an Anatomical Imperfection)' by director Alexandra Matthaiou will have its world premiere at the 58th Quinzaine des Cinéastes in Cannes, scheduled from May 13 to May 23, 2026. The film was selected as one of nine short films for this year's program. It is a co-production between Cyprus, Greece, and France. The story follows a young woman named Eliza who works at a luxury resort. Due to a rare anatomical anomaly, Eliza is unable to smile, which conflicts with the environment's demand for constant positivity. The film explores the pressure to conform versus the need to preserve one's individuality. The shooting process spanned four days at the resort that inspired the script. Alexandra Matthaiou previously gained international recognition for her work on the short film 'A Summer Place'.