Cinema lovers will from tomorrow until the 31st of August, enjoy a rare opportunity to watch 34 films as part of the 17th edition of International Images Film Festival (IIFF) celebrations running under the theme “Reach Out.”
Addressing journalists in Harare yesterday, IIFF coordinator Karen Mukwasi indicated that the festival will celebrate work done by female directors and producers whose works will be showcased throughout the week.
“The film selection comprises of 34 films made by women directors and films with strong femicentric themes or having strong female protagonists in line with our theme, Reach Out,” said Mukwasi.
She added that film screening has already started in some communities and is targeted at addressing Gender Based Violence.
“We have already started film screening in communities though the official opening is on the 24th, in line with our mandate to use film for social transformation. IIFF will host screening in Mufakose, Epworth and Highfields.
“The films in communities will focus on Gender Based Violence related themes. Community conversation will accompany the film screenings in an effort to raise awareness and increase the urgency of communities in dealing with GBV and related issues,” added Mukwasi.
Meanwhile, IIFF’s Brazilian guest of honor and film maker, Luciana Farah is already in the country and is training a small group of five Zimbabweans in animation.
The main festival celebration stage will be at National Art Gallery of Zimbabwe.