The 9th edition of the Arunachal Film Festival (AFF) commenced with grandeur at the Dorjee Khandu Convention Centre, Itanagar hosted by the Information & Public Relations (IPR) Department.
The two-day festival promises a celebration of quality films, fostering constructive criticism and discussion among participants.
IPR Secretary Nyali Ete reportedly set the tone by emphasizing the importance of quality over quantity among participants.He also encouraged feedback through a suggestion box, aiming for continuous improvement.
Kolkata-based Satyajit Ray Film & Television Institute director Himansu Sekhar Khatua shared insights into Arunachal Pradesh’s potential and advocated for a state film policy to uplift local filmmakers, as per reports.
Additionally, Director Khatua also shed light on the advantages for Arunachal Pradesh’s filmmakers after the establishment of the Film & Television Institute in Jote.
Moreover, IPR Director Onyok Pertin and Deputy Director Marbang Ezing added their perspectives to the festival’s opening.
Notably, the festival’s inauguration featured an award-winning short film, ‘Last Days of Summer,’ directed by Ladakh’s Stenzin Tankyong. The diverse lineup included regional films from Arunachal Pradesh and the classic ‘Mera Dharam, Meri Maa’ by late director Bhupen Hazarika, the state’s first feature-length movie.
Apart from film screenings, Parallel discussions unfolded at the amphitheatre with film critic Meenakshi Shedde and filmmaker Dominic M Sangma moderating, as per reports.
Simultaneously, another venue reportedly hosted a discussion on ‘Film Future: Roadmap for Emerging Filmmakers.’ A workshop on color grading, led by Prithvi Bhuddavarapu, offered participants insights into the art’s significance in filmmaking.
The day culminated with a panel discussion and Q&A session on ‘Promotion and Marketing of Regional Films.’ Panellists included Domenic Sangma, Tai Gungte (actor), FFA VP (protocol) Jack Taniya Budh, and FTGA president Mingkeng Osik. Sanju Dodum moderated the engaging session, providing attendees with valuable insights into the film industry’s promotional dynamics.
As the Arunachal Film Festival unfolds, it promises an enriching blend of cinematic excellence, discussions, and workshops, marking a significant milestone in the region’s cultural landscape.
