The festival will screen an array of films that showcase the innovative use of technology in filmmaking.
By Helena Olori
The BlackStar International Film Festival (BSIFF) is gearing up for its 8th edition scheduled to be held in Accra, Ghana, from Monday 18th to Sunday 24th September, 2023.
The festival, themed “Tech in Film: Exploring the Role of Technology in Filmmaking in Africa,” seeks to propel the growth of Africa’s film industry in tandem with global standards through the strategic use of available technological resources.
“The theme reflects the festival’s commitment to celebrating the advancements in cinema on the continent and advocating for an industry that continually pushes boundaries,” says Philippa Bentuma Arthur, director of the festival.
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Emphasising the importance of the theme at a press conference on the festival’s details, Juliet Asante, founder and president of BSIFF added, “The future is tech and filmmakers need to advance with the times.”
The week-long event will provide filmmakers and industry players with networking opportunities and valuable insights into technological trends through scheduled workshops, masterclasses, and panel discussions.
26 films that showcase the innovative use of technology in filmmaking – including short and feature-length projects – have also been selected as part of the official lineup for the festival. Over 40 films from different countries are set to screen at the festival.
(Read also: Asmae El-Moudir’s The Mother of All Lies to Screen at the 2023 Toronto International Film Festival)
The festival’s grand finale will be the Blackstar Music Concert – featuring Ghanaian talents such as Asi Renie, Sefa, Darko Vibes, Beryl, and more – and the Blackstar Film Awards night, where exceptional films from this year’s competition will be recognised.
The #BSIFF23 is co-funded by the European Union, Silverbird Cinemas, Tecno, and several other partners.
The BlackStar International Film Festival is an annual cultural platform that inspires and nurtures African cinema appreciation. It also supports independent African filmmakers by providing them with sales and distribution opportunities, networking, learning and upscaling prospects.
Tickets to the festival and event schedule are available here.