BSIFF needs attention and support
Since the advent of film-making in Ghana, Black Star International Film Festival(BSIFF) scheduled for August 25-29 is most probably, the second time any firm is attempting to execute a film festival in the country.
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The first being the 2013 Accra International Film Festival organised by Katamadara Concepts and headlined by Hollywood veteran actor, Bill Duke.
BSIFF is here:
Per the theme for BSIFF, spearheaded by actress and filmmaker, Juliet Asante, the organisers recognise that film is a powerful tool which can be used to change the mindset and culture of a people.
After August 29, BSIFF hopes to be etched in history as one of only four major film festivals on the African continent, following the likes of FESPACO, Durban International Film Festival, Zanzibar International Film Festival and Sahara International Film Festival.
Poor publicity drive & lack of attention:
Since its launch some months ago and the cocktail event held last month, the BSIFF has not enjoyed any intensive publicity, and that is quite worrying, especially when the event comes off in a few weeks.
Apart from two Graphic Showbiz publications about the event in Monday, July 4 and Thursday, Auguat 4, editions and an appearance on Metro TV’s Good Evening Ghana, the festival is yet to garner widespread mention on all sections of the media.
Lack of interest, no awareness or no movies?
While filmmakers in the United States and India submitted over 500 films, those in Ghana, which is supposed to be the host country, submitted as low as 14 films for screening at the festival.
The poor showing of Ghanaian films can be attributed to some factors. Perhaps, producers believe they have a lot of things to worry about and film festival in Ghana is not on that list.
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Lack of awareness could also be a factor in the abysmal showing considering the fact that, the news about this festival hardly made the rounds.
Maybe, producers did not hear about it and there’s even the possibility some producers have still not even heard about it till date.
The other reason could be the obvious fact that, not too many movies are being released, especially the so-called ‘Glamour’ movies.
Importance of Film Festivals:
Film festivals are extremely essential, as they get to kill two big birds with just one stone; answering lots of questions in the film industry and improving the flow of international filmmakers who troop in as tourists.
For the filmmakers, festivals present a significant way to market their film at a reasonable rate. There are opportunities to network within the industry. Get feedback from audiences and judges. Share tips and information on topics from technical aspects of filming to location hints.
Film festivals have grown in significance as theatrical distribution has been unseated as the most important factor in a film’s success. In fact, premiering and theater showings often count for very little of a film’s earnings because films now make most of their money through cable distribution packages, and the surest place you get such deals is at the festivals.
Such festivals present a different way to circulate a film, ensuring that it is seen by both the public and industry professionals alike, while the path to financial success can often begin once a movie has picked up one of the many accolades the festival circuit hands out each year.
BSIFF Needs Support & Attention:
For all the advantages associated with film festivals outlined above, it is essential that, the BSIFF attains all the attention it needs.
Media men from Ghana are always being sponsored to go cover other festivals and movie awards outside Ghana and come back penning all the glowing tributes. This is our own and it is imperative that we also make it look appealing for others to come from other countries and experience it.
With immense support from stakeholders within the film industry, this festival stands a better chance of changing the face of the industry.
With support from institutions and corporate entities, BSIFF is sure to rake in lots of revenue and goodwill for the nation.