The Edo State International Film Festival (ESIFF) is poised to enthrall spectators anew with its announcement of an impressive lineup of 486 films for its eagerly awaited second edition.
The festival, scheduled to occur in Benin City from November 30 to December 2, 2023, pledges to be a grand festivity of varied voices and narratives from the international film fraternity.
Enthusiastic filmmakers from more than 80 nations ardently submitted their creations, exceeding the festival’s anticipations with a remarkable 3000 entries. Building on the triumph of its first edition in 2022, ESIFF persists in glowing as a global lighthouse for filmmakers.
Violet Okosun, the Festival Director, conveyed her exhilaration, stating, “ESIFF continues to be a reliable platform for filmmakers globally, and the selection of 486 films from 80 countries underscores the festival’s dedication to displaying the rich mosaic of worldwide cinema. We are delighted to offer a vibrant platform that not only applauds exceptional films but also fosters a spirited exchange of notions and proficiency within the industry.”
ESIFF 2023 promises more than just film viewings. Attendees can anticipate a comprehensive agenda that encompasses enlightening masterclasses and captivating panel discussions. Industry professionals, both seasoned and budding, will have the chance to partake in expert-guided sessions on Cinematography, Screenwriting, the Business of Acting, and Documentary Filmmaking, among other subjects.
Prominent government personalities, including Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State and Uyi Odua Malaka, the Commissioner for Arts, Culture, and Tourism, will participate in the panel discussions, underscoring the significance of film in Edo State. Esteemed film executives like Mary Njoku, Founder/CEO of Rok Studios, Nnaeto Orazulike, Chairman of Genesis Group, and Trevor Pillay, Managing Director of Kada Cinemas, will also impart their insights, making ESIFF 2023 a fruitful center for learning and networking.
Governor Obaseki expressed his enthusiasm for the festival and the flourishing film industry within Edo State. He stressed the government’s commitment to metamorphosing the region into a dynamic hub for film production through infrastructure enhancement and talent nurturing. ESIFF, propelled by the Governor’s vision, plays a crucial role in positioning Edo State as a significant contender in the global film arena.
Speaking about his strategy, Obaseki said, “Our objective is to evolve Edo as a production hub by offering convenience for filmmakers and managing costs effectively. What do producers require? They need talent and a conducive environment, and we are resolved to meet those needs.”