Iran’s Cinema Verite Focuses on Gaza Genocide

Date: 30 October 2024 - 22:12

News ID: ۱۳۳۰۳۹

TEHRAN -- The 18th edition of the International Documentary Film Festival of Iran, known as Cinema Verité, has announced that the humanitarian crisis in Gaza is the focus of its programs.
In the second meeting of the festival’s policy-making council, key figures such as cultural director Mahdi Masoudshahi, representative of the association of documentary producers Alireza Husseini, and deputy for cinema affairs Salim Qafouri outlined the festival’s aims, underscoring the importance of Gaza as a theme.
The festival’s director Muhammad Hamidi-Moghaddam stated that Gaza’s ongoing plight and the theme of resistance are among the core concerns this year.
“The resistance and Gaza section is not a show-off for us. The world today is embroiled in a humanitarian crisis...you will see our interest in this issue this year as well.”
He said the opening film, workshops, and special guest sessions will address the Gaza conflict and the broader implications of genocide.
Ghader Ashna, a board member of the Iranian Organization of Cinema and Audiovisual Affairs, emphasized the relevance of showing Gaza’s resilience and dynamic life amidst conflict, aiming to contrast the images typically seen in mainstream news.
The 18th Cinema Verité has received 2,314 foreign documentary submissions from 123 countries, including works from Canada, India, Brazil, and Germany.
The event is set to take place in December, featuring films from across the globe that reflect diverse perspectives on pressing global issues, with Gaza standing prominently among them.