Film fiesta takes to the Hill Capital

Yasaratne Gamage

The Kandy International Film Festival (KIFF) will unfurl in the scenic Kandyan environs from June 22 to 26. The inaugural festival will be the first international movie festival to be held on such a grand scale in the country.

It will be an unforgettable experience for moviegoers as it will be an opportunity for them to enjoy not only a variety of international award winning movies but also to interact with well known directors. The festival will feature 15 movies, both documentary and narrative.

The movies will be screened at the University of Peradeniya Open Air Theatre, Kandy City Centre (KCC), Sigiri Theatre and Regal Theatre.

American film-maker Samuel Holt who had grown up in Kandy will spearhead the event. Speaking to the media at a briefing at the National Film Corporation, Holt said that public should make use of the opportunity to engage in an open forum and to witness the movie premieres.

"It is to revive local cinema by gaining experiences. The event will make room for discussions across inter- cultures. It will also create a platform for education. Workshops will be held for those who study cinema industry," he said.

Tickets are available at the KCC, the British Council and the entrances prior to screenings. They are priced Rs 50 for students and Rs 200 for adults. ANCL is the print media sponsor of the event.