European Film Fest Malawi ends in glitz
By Jimmy Chazama:
A first step in Blantyre which included a workshop and screenings was a perfect magic to lift the official opening of the eighth edition of the European Film Festival Malawi at the European Union (EU) Residence in Lilongwe over the weekend.
The official opening that attracted filmmakers and various other players set the tone for a movie night under the stars on a big screen rekindling memories of cinema years.
The stage was for films from Europe and Malawi but music was also part of the bill with Madalitso Band, the duo of Yobu Maligwa and Yosefe Kalekeni, whose film Banjo Boys was screened, among the performers.
Cultures united at the event to bring the cinema curtain of this year’s edition to a beautiful finale.
Apart from Banjo Boys, which highlights friendship, resilience and music across continents through the lens of Madalitso Band, other films that people sampled included Pearl Diver from Norway and The Mohican from France.
EU Ambassador to Malawi Daniel Gaztelumendi described the movie fiesta as a success and that it continues to create bridges and bring people together.
“We have had exciting films and these films, are meant to foster dialogue and cultural exchange.
Cinema has the power has the power to connect people across cultures,” Gaztelumendi said.
Film Association of Malawi (Fama) President Dorothy Kingston hailed EU and partners for the festival saying it has been instrumental in offering local filmmakers and audiences a chance to engage with international cinema while showcasing local talent.
“It is a platform for cultural exchange and promotion of Malawi’s identity through films,” Kingston said.
Madalitso Band Manager Neil Nayar reflected on the group’s journey after screening on Banjo Boys.
“Watching the film together, reminded us of the incredible journey Madalitso Band has travelled, from street performers to the global stage,” Nayar said of the group, which returned recently from their global tour.
Award winning filmmaker Joyce Mhango Chavula took advantage of the festival to call for investment in the country’s film industry.
“The corporate world, well-wishers and the government should help us out. We have so many untold stories that the world needs to see but there has to be support for us to bring out quality films,” the Gunless Soldier maker, said.
The festival bowed out with other screenings at Pabwalo Multipurpose Room at National Library Service on Saturday and Lilongwe Girls Secondary School Sunday.
