Film as national development tool
At a press briefing to launch the BSIFF, Ms Asante who is also an actress and filmmaker said there were many job opportunities available for the youth in the film industry hence; the industry must be developed to make it more attractive.
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“This year’s theme for the film festival, “Shaping the Mind of a Generation”, has informed the decision to make all screenings and panels free to all people aged 20 and below.
“We believe this generation is the future of film and the time to begin impacting them is now. It is our hope that in the next three to 10 years, this generation will begin to set new standards,” she said.
The festival which opens on Thursday, August 25, and runs till Sunday, August 28, will not only involve the screening of movies but include panel discussion sessions, a drive-in cinema, kenkey parties and fun trips to some places of cultural significance in the country.
According to Ms Asante, the BSIFF attracted over 3300 films from across the world out of which 40 were selected for screening at the festival. Out of that number, seven films from Ghana made the shortlist.
“The festival will focus on the business of film and look to increase understanding and knowledge of filmmakers about the process of distribution and film financing.
“These are the main gaps in the industry and one can therefore expect to see top level distributors at the festival. The festival is also exploring financing opportunities for filmmakers with a number of financial institutions.
“All these are with the hope that we serve as a catalyst for the strategic advancement of film making in Ghana and Africa at large,” she said.
