Rainbow Film Festival concludes honouring outstanding films
News Desk
Shottobani
London: The 24th Rainbow International Film Festival concluded with honouring outstanding filmmakers and promoting young people and women in film on 4 June 2023. The 24th Rainbow International Film Festival, organised by the Rainbow Society, ended on 4th June 2023, after an exhilarating eight-day celebration of global cinema. The festival, which commenced with a grand inauguration at Genesis Cinema Hall, Mile End Road, East London, on 28 May, captivated audiences with its diverse and thought-provoking film selection.
From 29th May to 3rd June, the Brady Arts Centre served as the focal point for daily screenings of remarkable films from around the world. The festival showcased an impressive collection of 45 films representing countries such as Bangladesh, India, Iran, Pakistan, Kazakhstan, and China. These films mesmerised audiences with their extraordinary storytelling and artistic brilliance.
A significant highlight of the festival was the “Women in Film” section, which aimed to recognise and empower women filmmakers in the industry. On 3rdJune, a workshop exclusively for women was organised, covering various aspects of film production, including acting, directing, and editing short films. The workshop provided valuable insights and networking opportunities, enabling aspiring female filmmakers to enhance their skills and nurture their passion.
The festival’s grand finale took place at the Kenneth More Theatre in Ilford on 4th June, where the closing ceremony was held. The closing ceremony featured a screening of the acclaimed Bangladeshi film, “JK 1971.” The film garnered recognition and admiration from the audience for its exceptional storytelling and cinematic excellence.
The 24th Rainbow International Film Festival featured esteemed jury board members who meticulously evaluated the films presented. Feature Film Jury Board Members were Jayasree Kabir, Pulak Gupta, Robert Phillips, Sadek Ahmed Chowdhury, Syed Anas Pasha and Dr Zaki Rezwana Anwar. Short and Documentary Jury Board Members were Aunul Islam, Nadia Ali, Noora Alam Suman and Syed Makib Ahmed.
The festival concluded with the announcement of awards, recognising outstanding achievements in filmmaking. Under the Feature Film Category, the awards went to Best Film: “JK 1971” (Bangladesh), Best Director: Seyyed Morteza Fatemi for “Bi-Mother” (Iran), Best Story: “Gargi” (India), Best Film for Humanity: “Mum I am Alive” (Kazakhstan), Special Jury Mention: “The Coffin Painter” (China), Rainbow Film Society Special Mention: “Satao” (Bangladesh). Short and Documentary Category: Best Film: “Tulika” (Bangladesh), Best Director: Kati Kallio for “Walks with Me” (Finland), Best Story: “Ebong Chad” (India) and Special Jury Mention: “Arsu Abod” (Iran).