Movie lovers on Thursday descended at the European Union (EU) Ambassador’s Residence in Lilongwe where they sampled an exciting lineup of films during the launch of the European Film Festival.
EU Ambassador to Malawi Rune Skinnebach said during the event that film festivals “are an important channel through which to foster mutual understanding between cultures.”
Sinnebach describes film festivals as vital in that they also provide an opportunity to appreciate creativity in Malawi through the locally made films that are incorporated in the festival programmes every year.
“Thus, non-Malawian audiences that patronise our film festivals equally get to learn about Malawian culture,” the EU Ambassador to Malawi said.
Skinnebach said apart from providing entertainment, films constitute a means of expressing voices, views and opinions.
“Sometimes a note of criticism is detected; sometimes issues lingering in the public subconscious are brought to light. Films are catalysing ideas as to the direction societies take.
“Try and watch our movies through this prism, and you might pick up on some of those undercurrents. Personally, I am convinced that we need those voices in Europe as much as we need them here in Malawi,” he said.
He added that through the previous editions of the European Film Festival in Malawi, they have learnt of the several challenges that filmmakers in Malawi face ranging from the lack of exposure, financial resources, creative spaces, infrastructure, marketing and distribution.
He was, however, quick to note that despite the drawbacks, Malawi has produced a number of noteworthy films and filmmakers that have gained recognition.
“Let me commend Film Association of Malawi (Fama) for introducing the Malawi Film Festival with the aim of uplifting the Malawi film industry.
“This is an important step as it provides a platform for local filmmakers to showcase Malawian films, and not only that; it is also a way of marketing Malawi as a destination for filmmakers,” he said.
Skinnebach said Malawi’s film industry maybe in its early stages but it was making a steady progress.
“The country’s natural beauty and warm hospitality make it an enticing destination for filmmakers. One of our selections this year, Bigger than Us which is a French film, has scenes that were shot in Malawi,” he said.
Deputy Minister of Local Government, Unity and Culture Owen Chomanika shared Skinnebach’s sentiments saying the European Film Festival is important because it provides a platform for interaction and cultural exchanges between Europe and Malawi.
Following its launch on Thursday, the festival continues with its screenings including at Catholic University in Chiradzulu on October 30 2024 and Tumaini Festival at Dzaleka Refugee Camp in Dowa on November 2 2024.
Held in partnership with Lake of Stars Festival, some of the films screening include Malawi’s True or False and Daniel da Trindade’s Kamdothi, Fallen Leaves, a Finnish film and A Summer in Boujad from Morocco.
