
The Autumn of Zao 2014
In *The Autumn of Zao (2014)*, Nikolaus Roche-Kresse crafts a delicate, melancholic fable about a young boy named Zao, confined to a lakeside home as he battles an incurable illness.
Director: Nikolaus Roche-Kresse
Cast

Frequently Asked Questions
What is *The Autumn of Zao* (2014) about?
*The Autumn of Zao* follows a young boy named Zao, who finds solace in the company of a mysterious girl named Cloe. Together, they explore a forest by a lake, where Cloe shares a legend about a mythical creature. The story unfolds as a tender allegory about life, resilience, and the power of imagination to soften even the harshest realities.
Who directed *The Autumn of Zao*?
The film was directed by Nikolaus Roche-Kresse, who brings a poetic and atmospheric touch to the short film's emotional core.
Who stars in *The Autumn of Zao*?
The cast includes Caterina Murino, Elia Blanc, Morgane Hocde, and Claudine Bertin in key roles.
Is *The Autumn of Zao* (2014) worth watching?
If you appreciate visually striking short films with deep emotional themes, *The Autumn of Zao* is absolutely worth your time. Its blend of fantasy and realism, coupled with strong performances and Roche-Kresse's dreamy direction, makes it a standout in its genre. While it's a niche title, its haunting beauty lingers.
How long is *The Autumn of Zao*?
The film runs for 19 minutes.
About The Autumn of Zao (2014) — A Dreamlike Short Film of Fragile Beauty
In *The Autumn of Zao (2014)*, Nikolaus Roche-Kresse crafts a delicate, melancholic fable about a young boy named Zao, confined to a lakeside home as he battles an incurable illness. When a mysterious girl named Cloe leads him through the whispering woods, she weaves a haunting legend about the lake's hidden monster—a tale that becomes both an escape and a reflection on life's fleeting beauty. As Zao confronts his fragile existence, the short film transforms into a poignant meditation on childhood, mortality, and the power of dreams to transcend pain. Shot with dreamlike visuals, Roche-Kresse's direction infuses the story with a bittersweet warmth, capturing the essence of innocence and wonder.
Starring Caterina Murino, Elia Blanc, and Morgane Hocde, this 19-minute gem blends fantasy and realism, offering viewers a cinematic experience that lingers long after the credits roll. *The Autumn of Zao* isn't just a story about illness or loss—it's a celebration of life's quiet, magical moments.