More than 380 short films from 61 countries will be screened at this year's Filmfest Dresden (April 8 to 13) in several cinemas and at open-air events in the heart of the historic old town. The thematic focus of the programme is "Solidarity!", as the organizers announced.
Diverse topics from horror to home
The focus will be on ecological crises and possible solutions, the role of language, different perspectives on the lives of Roma, as well as solidarity and home. This year's Capital of Culture also has a place at the film festival: the Chemnitz Film Workshop, founded in 1991, will be honored with a special program.
The late-night section "Cinema Digestif" will show three short film programs focusing on horror, the human body and sexuality. The animated documentary series "In Fritzi's Footsteps" deals with the Peaceful Revolution. Several screenings are planned for children and young people. The popular short film bingo is also back in the program. In addition to the film screenings, a supporting program with panels, a master class and other events is planned.
Award ceremony with 17 "Golden Horsemen"
At the award ceremony on 12 April, 17 "Golden Horsemen" and special prizes will be presented, with 67 entries from 34 countries competing for them. Independent juries will decide on 14 of the awards, supplemented by three audience prizes, including for the first time in the Central German competition. A drag party will also be held afterwards this year.
Budget cuts hit festival
The film festival had to reduce the total prize money to EUR 70,500 due to budget cuts - EUR 1,500 less than last year. "The drastic cuts in the cultural, youth and social sectors are also hitting our film festival hard", said festival director Anne Gaschütz according to the press release. Funding cuts of 10 percent at city level and up to 30 percent at state level are on the cards. Funding from the Kulturstiftung Sachsen was completely eliminated this year.
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