MR. BENO

Short, Student, Drama, Comedy

Armenia

2025

Runtime, min

Beno is an elderly teacher of mathematics who has dreamed of becoming a stand-up comedian since childhood. However, his mother pushes him into a life of numbers, steering him away from his true passion. Despite his career, Beno still holds onto his sense of humor, using it to connect with his students during the lessons. One day, during a warm and friendly family dinner, Beno learns about the first-ever stand-up comedy competition in Yerevan. Given his family’s mockings, Beno resorts to acting in secret. Determined to follow his dream, he seeks to prove to himself and his family that it’s never too late to follow his heart.

Director:

Ani Khamoyan

Selections and Awards:

BTS

REVIEWS:

Обалденный фильм. Очень понравился! Смех сквозь слезы. Затронуты важнейшие жизненные сферы - семья, мечты, работа, жизненный путь… глубоко эмоциональный жизнеутверждающий фильм с трагической основой, но теплотой, любовью и юмором. Спасибо! Awesome film. I really liked it! Laughter through tears. It touches on the most important aspects of life — family, dreams, work, the life path… A deeply emotional and life-affirming film with a tragic core, but filled with warmth, love, and humor. Thank you!

Live Screenings Attendee

Mr. Beno made me laugh and cry. The moment he stood on that stage… oh god, my heart was pounding for him.

Alessandro Soldi

Some of those jokes were gold! Especially the line about the square root of -1. That’s geek comedy done right.

Lucia Sanchez Ortiz

Seeing an older man dare to dream again? That gave me chills. It’s never too late, I guess.

Julien Salvo

It felt like I was watching someone from my own family trying to chase a dream. So warm and real.

Jacob Carter

The narrative balance between comedy and personal drama is admirable. The script feels fresh, with clever humor layered over generational tension.

Nino Irvikyan

As a teacher myself, I felt that classroom scene deep in my bones. Humor really is a bridge to the kids.

Kevin Lacombe

The way it blended the mundane with the absurd felt so honest. Hilarious and heartbreaking.

Charlotte Young

At first I thought it’s about an old guy doing dad jokes, but then boom it hit different. Kinda inspiring actually.

Cristina Forero

Strong performance by the lead. Nuanced, funny, but with so much dignity. This one deserves more spotlight.

Federico Passero

Loved the subtle message: don’t let society box you in, no matter your age. Beno’s courage? Big respect.

Rudolf Hamwan