The idea - Where it came from

"culture shock"

the feeling of disorientation experienced by someone when they are suddenly subjected to an unfamiliar culture, way of life, or set of attitudes.

I was 19 when I first moved out of my family home and my country. Relocating from Hungary to Iceland was a harsh change of environment. From the landscape to the culture, everything was different. And there it was: the first time I experienced culture shock. 

By the second time I moved, this time to France, I noticed that I adapted more quickly, yet, in an unfamiliar way. At that point, not only did I have to adapt to French culture compared to my original culture, but I also unconsciously took my Icelandic existence into consideration. It was like a little part of me became Icelandic and I will forever carry that along with me no matter where I go.

As of now, I live in England and here we are again. Culture shock.

When we were first told we have to create a transmedia project about literally anything, at first I was overwhelmed. There are so many things I want to share. But then I realised, culture shock has been what defined my life ever since I first made a conscious decision about my life.

It is such and important issue these days. If the 230 million expats around the world wanted to create their own country, it would be the fifth largest. In today’s globalised world, it is becoming less and less challenging to change countries. At least physically. The emotional challenge will always be burdensome. 

With this short film, I aimed to speak to those who are still in a vulnerable state - who only recently moved countries - with the possibility of expanding it to other countries as well. 

-Sara