Entertainment, Part One
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Lights, Camera, Bangkok International Film Festival! It’s official, so get ready! I was on hand at the King Power Complex when Mrs. Juthaporn Rerngronasa, Deputy Governor for Marketing Communications of the Tourism Authority of Thailand officially announced the upcoming Bangkok International Film Festival—which, incidentally, I will be covering for the fifth year in a row. This year, the BKKIFF will take place September 23-30 at SF Cinemas CentralWorld. Scheduled highlights include the opening reception (Sept. 23), the Red Carpet Gala Screening (Sept. 26th), the Golden Kinnaree Awards (Sept. 28th at the Aksara Grand Theater, King Power Complex), and the Closing Ceremony (Sept 30th).
The deputy governor explained about this year’s event, “It is the first time that the festival has been organized by co-operation and collaboration between the Tourism Authority of Thailand and the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand, an organization directly related to the film industry. The Tourism Authority of Thailand has organized the Bangkok International Film Festival for five years, and now in its sixth year, it will be presented for the first time as a result of cooperation and collaboration between all parties. It is a great opportunity for Thailand to support the film industry and establish a position as the cultural and entertainment hub of the region.”
Mr. Jareuk Kaljareuk, President of the Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand, and the Festival Director, added, “This year our emphasis is on films and filmmakers from the ASEAN region. As the film industries of the region develop and strengthen, Thailand has an important role to play in this growing film culture. New technologies present new opportunities for filmmakers to present their visions. One of the challenges is how to accept international techniques and influences and to achieve success in a global marketplace without losing the unique cultural voice of the region.”
He added, “The Federation has the full support and co-operation of its member organizations. The Thai Film Directors’ Association will select and co-ordinate the program of over 70 films in this year’s festival. The Thai Film Directors’ Association represents some of the brightest, creative minds in the Thai film industry, and we are confident that this year’s program will present an exciting selection of contemporary films from Asia and across the globe.”
“The Thai film industry has developed enormously in recent years. Thai
filmmakers now achieve international recognition, and Thailand can
offer world-class skills and facilities to international productions.
At the same time, domestic audiences now see a wider range of
international films than ever before. The Bangkok International Film
Festival is a chance to show our appreciation to Thai filmmakers, to
welcome and attract international productions, and to present new
visions to our audiences,” Mr. Kaljareuk concluded.
For the latest, greatest details check out www.BangkokFilm.org. And
for a photo archive of the last five years of the festival, check
out www.NotesFromHollywood.com.
Photos by Nicholas Snow.