The director of “Breath” believes that having a filmmaker as the director of the festival is one of the advantages of this edition and she expects bright prospects for the upcoming editions.
In an interview with the public relations office of the 34th FIFF, Narges Abiar said, “The international section of the festival used to be overshadowed by the national section when they were held simultaneously. I think the independence of the international section in the last two years has been a good change.”
She added, “The independence of the international section helps Iranian filmmakers to put more time into submitting their works and participate in the international market of the festival with more power and confidence. This is an exceptional opportunity. Screening our films in merely national markets shouldn’t suffice us. We ought to try to present our works to the world.”
She asserted, “Previously, when the international section was held alongside the national section, filmmakers and film distributers didn’t have a proper opportunity to showcase their talents. However, the independence of the international section helps filmmakers and film distributers present their products in the market and contribute to the economy of the country.”
The director of “Track, 143” said, “Formerly, we participated in international festivals as guests and it wasn’t easy for us to present our works to the world. But now we have an international festival held in our country – a festival through which we can gain credit for Iranian Cinema.”
Abiar maintained that having a filmmaker as the festival director is one of the advantages of the festival and said, “The director of the festival can empathize with filmmakers since he’s familiar with their terminology. This festival will definitely be more recognized in future and be organized more professionally.”
The 34th edition of Fajr International Film Festival is being held from April 20th to April 25th, 2016 in Charsou Cineplex, under the supervision of the well-known Iranian filmmaker, Mr. Reza Mirkarimi, who is also the Managing Director of Khaneh Cinema.
For more information on Fajr International Film Festival, visit the festival website, www.fajriff.com.