Macao’s film buffs and music video fans are settling down to a week of viewings at the 13th Macau International Short Film Festival, which kicked off yesterday at Teatro Capitol on Rua de Pedro Nolasco da Silva, with Sweet Freedom by German Director Dominic Wittrin.
The fest will showcase 128 selected short films and music videos from around the world, which were chosen from thousands of submissions for both its International Short Film Competition (SHORTS) and International Music Video Competition (VOLUME).
The Gala Award Ceremony and screening of awarded films and music videos will be held next Thursday, where cash prizes worth MOP 84,000 will also be presented to winners of different categories.
Festival Director Lúcia Lemos told The Macau Post Daily that holding the festival was “extremely important” given that there are no other festivals showcasing short films in Macao.
“Our festival is totally devoted to short films in three categories: fiction, documentary and animation, as well as music videos. Moreover, it gives those entering the competition an opportunity to showcase their talents and skills,” Lemos said.
She noted that cinema is “the most democratic” creative medium and enables the different skills that go into the “broad industry” of filmmaking to be utilised. “This is not only for filmmakers,” she said, adding that the festival involves many people from different backgrounds.
Lemos noted that the festival also features awards tailored for locals, such as the Best Local Entry and Macao Cultural Identity for films.
Moreover, the event will also feature expanded cinema sessions and masterclasses, where invited filmmakers will talk about their experiences in making films. The film-fest ends next Thursday, coinciding with the Feast of Immaculate Conception.
