BY NEVILLE TIMOTHY SANDERS & AWANG MUHAMMAD SYAHMI
KOTA SAMARAHAN: The 19th Mini Film Festival and Arts Festival are now underway with La Promenade Mall as the host.
From July 6 to 9, there will be free screenings of over 60 films in three different halls at the mall in addition to the art exhibition.
Director of the festival Yow Chong Lee said that the event features various short films from countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, Laos, Japan, Thailand, Myanmar, and Brunei.
“Normally, short films are made by younger generations as it is the platform for them to launch their career before they head to make feature length films,” he said
He also understands the importance of the festival as it serves as a training ground for the young generation of filmmakers on every aspect of filmmaking.
“Once they get the recognition and awards during the festival, they will get a clear understanding of the idea pitching for their film in addition to funding itself,” he said.
He said this at a press conference during the festival at the mall here yesterday.
On another note, Yow added that out of 60 films showcased, 20 of them were already in a nomination list.
“The awards night will cap off the event and this festival is really not one to be missed for any movie or art lovers.
“Short films such as “Sebayan” which was directed by a Sarawakian are also keenly anticipated as it is about siblings experiencing a funeral for the first time,” he added.
Organised by the Faculty of Applied and Fine Arts from Universiti Malaysia Sarawak (UNIMAS), the selected films will include a question-and-answer session with the filmmakers after the screening.
Topics explored by filmmakers including loss, beautifully shot cinematic portraits, movies about overlooked societal issues and more will be presented.
Several workshops and mini arts exhibitions will also be held for aspiring filmmakers and artists throughout the festival.
For more information regarding the festival, visit linktr.ee/minkfilmfestival and for more updates regarding activities happening at La Promenade Mall, visit lapromenademall.com.my or search @lapromenademall on various social media.
