By Thoboloko Ntšonyane
MASERU- The European Union Delegations to the Kingdoms of Lesotho and Eswatini have joined forces with the Alliance Françaises de Maseru and Mbabane have kicked off the binational European Film Festival (EUFF).
A blend of cinematic artistry and cultural exchange, the festival is slated to run from November 13th to 30th November 2024, showcasing a tapestry of films from across the globe.
The EU Head of Delegation, Paola Amadei told this publication that the film festival has been embraced by audiences and expressed her delight that it also caters for younger viewers.
The EUFF kicked off with a screening of “A Wish for My Daughter”, a locally based film funded by the EU and it explores issues such as gender equality and gender-based violence, followed by a panel discussion with panelists who shared insights and stories.
Amadei mentioned that the festival fosters dialogue between different cultures. She also explained that it was first organized three years ago, opening with the film “It’s Not a Burial, it’s a Resurrection”, which was nominated for an Oscar.
“We are interested not so much in the blockbusters, but in films that will speak to the values and principles that Basotho and Europe share and to the area in which our initiative in Lesotho and Eswatini are focused – sustainable development, environmental protection, fight against climate change, human rights and gender equality,” she said
The other focus they wanted to highlight she said was the youth and young viewers. “Our interest is to give opportunities to children and young people to see creative products from other countries not just from the EU but from other parts of the world and to open up their minds and learn new things through cinema.”
Funded by the European Union and with contributions from nine EU Member States including Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, Germany, France, Italy, Ireland, Poland, and Spain the EUFF promises an experience for the audiences to cherish.
The EUFFl is a celebration of the power of storytelling to foster understanding and unity by bringing diverse cultures together under one cinematic roof.
“This collaborative effort aims to promote cultural exchange, foster creativity, and strengthen ties between Europe and Lesotho.”
This year’s line-up features 31 films from 22 countries. Viewers can expect a rich blend of stories from Europe, Austria, Belgium, Cyprus, France, Germany, Italy, Ireland, Luxembourg, Poland, Spain, and Ukraine, alongside narratives from Africa, including Ethiopia, Kenya, Mali, Morocco, and Senegal. The festival will also see the screening of films from Iran, Afghanistan, China, and Brazil.
The screenings will take place at different locations in Maseru, including the Alliance Française de Maseru (November 13th to22nd), the National University of Lesotho (NUL) in Roma (November 19th to 22nd), and Morija amongst other locations the screenings are set to take place.