Guwahati, Dec 11: The inaugural Guwahati Asian Film Festival (GAFF) will kick off with the Iranian film In the Arms of the Tree, directed by Babak Khajehpasha. The film, which was Iran’s official submission for the 97th Academy Awards, will be the opening feature of the festival, scheduled to run from February 7 to 9, 2025.

The festival will showcase a diverse range of films from across Asia, including selections from Turkey, Kazakhstan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Iran, China, and more. In the Arms of the Tree tells a poignant story of family conflict and resilience, offering an emotionally powerful experience that transcends cultural boundaries.

GAFF 2025 will also feature two major sections: the Indian Showcase Section, highlighting the richness of Indian cinema, and the North East India Competition Section, focusing on emerging talent from the region.

Monita Borgohain, Festival Director, emphasized the event’s role in fostering cultural exchange and celebrating new narratives. “With an exciting lineup of films and sections dedicated to Indian and North Eastern cinema, we aim to create a dynamic platform for filmmakers and cinephiles,” she said.

In addition to screenings, the festival will include panel discussions and networking opportunities for both industry professionals and film enthusiasts. The advisory board includes prominent figures such as film critic Srinivasa Santhanam, filmmaker Utpal Borpujari, and critic Dalton Christopher.