Devil’s Instrument

Akmar (17), a queer violin prodigy and recent immigrant to Germany, earns a spot at the prestigious Academy of Music in Munich. Having fled persecution in Russia, he finds fleeting peace in a budding romance with Wai, a gifted cellist. But under relentless pressure from his perfectionist teacher and the looming threat of losing his legal status, Akmar’s trauma resurfaces. He senses his shadow dissociating and splitting from him: playing better, acting bolder, embodying all he represses. At first, it helps him thrive, sharpening his performance and confidence. But when it nearly chokes Wai to death in a jealous fit, Akmar spirals, losing his grip on reality. As he advances to the finals of a major competition, he must confront the pain and darkness within himself to stop his shadow from fully consuming him; onstage, in front of the world.