Euro film fest hits Malawi
After a year-long break, Malawi will this year host he European Film Festival. With support from the European Union (EU) delegation to Malawi, the festival is scheduled to take place from May 7 to 8 in Lilongwe and Blantyre.
Meanwhile, the second edition of the European Film Festival began last week with a workshop for local filmmakers.
“Europe’s cinema industry is thriving and producing award-winning visuals that tell stories. The European Union is delighted to support Malawi’s film industry as we learn from each other and grow together,” said the EU delegation chargé d’affaires Ivo Hoefkens.
Lake of Stars (LoS) is leading the organising partners alongside Film Association of Malawi (Fama).
The public screenings will showcase established and rising talents in filmmaking from Europe and Malawi, according to Fama president Ezaius Mkandawire.
“After the filmmakers workshop, participants got a few tips they can explore to make films that can be considered for the festival,” he said.
Mkandawire said filmmakers can make and submit any short film whether fiction or a documentary, among others.
“This is open to filmmakers, whether Fama members or not,” he said.
While not giving more details, Mkandawire said during the festival, some films will receive awards of excellence in different categories.
“We will share those details later but for now, filmmakers should submit short films before April 18. The shortlisted local films will be known once submissions are done,” he said.
LoS project manager Sharmila Elias said: “Europeans and Malawians can connect through the stories we tell on screen as we share values and deepen cultural understanding.”
The festival will take place for two days from May 8 at the EU Residence and at Jacaranda Culture Centre in Blantyre.
Those who want to attend the festival have to book online for the free tickets which are limited in line with Covid-19 protocols.
In November 2018, the European Commission started a project to support the creation and enhance the quality of European Film Festivals organised by the delegations of the EU.
Running until next year, the first EFF Malawi was held in 2019 with 10 Malawian and European films showcased in both Lilongwe and Blantyre.
The 2020 edition was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
