In the past decade the study of film festivals has blossomed. A growing number of scholars recognise.....
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In the past decade the study of film festivals has blossomed. A growing number of scholars recognise the significance of film festivals for understanding cinema’s production, distribution, reception and aesthetics. Most people know about the festival in Cannes, the worlds’ leading film festival, and many are familiar with other high profile events, like Venice, the oldest festival; Sundance, America’s vibrant independent scene; and Toronto Film Festival, a premier market place.
Furthermore, film festivals also help in recognising budding filmmakers and showcasing their talent. Keeping this in mind, Karachi Film Society (KFS), a non-profit parent body of Pakistan’s accomplished people is bringing the first ever Pakistan International Film Festival (PIFF) that will be held on 29th March till 1st April 2018.
Recently, KFS hosted a press conference at a local hotel in Karachi to announce the commemoration of Pakistan International Film Festival. Karachi Film Society includes Dr Ishrat Husain (former Governor State Bank of Pakistan), Ms Ameena Saiyid (CEO OUP), Senator (r) Javed Jabbar (writer/producer, former Information Minister), Mr Sirajuddin Aziz (CEO Habib Metropolitan Bank), Mr Jamil Baig (CEO Nueplex Cinemas), Ms Ronak Lakhani (Chairperson SOP), Ms Sharmeen Obaid Chinoy (Oscar winning director/producer), Ms. Sayeeda Leghari (Managing Director/Chairperson, Pepsi Sukkur Beverages (Pvt Ltd.) and Ms Sultana Siddiqui (recipient of President’s Pride of Performance Award, founder and president of HUM Network Ltd and Karachi Film Society).
The festival will feature film premieres and special screenings in the categories of feature length films, documentaries and short films. PIFF management is going to invite the overseas delegates of filmmakers, artists and professionals of the film industry abroad to grace the festival.
Another important aspect of this festival will be to hold workshops for young aspiring filmmakers where they can learn the craft from renowned mentors. A special mobile screening programme is also included in which PIFF teams will show selected films to young audiences on different locations in Karachi. The special panel discussions on women’s role in Film/ TV and seminars on the Pakistan film industry will also be an integral part of PIFF.
At the press conference, President Karachi Film Society, Sultana Siddiqui stated, “Karachi Film Society is a great initiative by the most committed and accomplished members of our society, and I am very proud to be part of such a dedicated team. This festival will definitely create opportunities for new filmmakers to showcase their work to enthusiastic viewers and professionals across the globe. I hope that this collective effort will grow in the years to come.”
The inception of Pakistan International Film Festival is a result of KFS’s desire to make the Pakistan film industry part of the global arena. This festival will introduce the country’s blossoming film industry to international markets and will encourage local filmmakers to showcase their work to the local and international audiences. The festival will be held under the patronage of honourable Governor Sindh, Mohammad Zubair, Chief Minister Syed Murad Ali Shah and the support of Sindh Government’s culture department.
-You! desk
