The Worldwise Centre at the University will be showing a diverse line-up of films from around the world
The University of Central Lancashire (UCLan) is proud to be presenting a special edition of the International Film Festival next week, open to all students, staff, and members of the community.
The unique festival will run from Thursday 9 March until Sunday 12 March and will feature a varied range of movies from around the world.
The idea behind the festival is to bring people together in celebration of how international cinema can inspire and enrich our everyday lives; help us to understand ourselves and our relationships with others; and explore the challenges we face in a changing world.
The festival will screen four different films, each presented in its original language with English subtitles. Each screening will be accompanied by a talk before the screening, exploring the film’s themes and cultural context.
To celebrate the launch of the festival on Thursday 9 March, a special evening event – open to all – will take place at 6pm, with an opportunity to network with drinks and nibbles. The film kicking off the event is Parallel Mothers, from acclaimed Spanish director Pedro Almodóvar, a visually stunning drama about two single mothers who give birth on the same day. Before the screening, a talk will be given by Dr Eduardo Tasis, Deputy Director of UCLan Research Centre for Migration, Diaspora and Exile (MIDEX).
The festival, which is taking place during the same week as International Women’s Day (8 March), also pays tribute to the contribution of women to global cinema.
Sofia Anysiadou, UCLan’s Worldwise Centre Manager, says:
“We believe that cinema has the power to inspire, educate, and entertain, and we are excited to be showcasing the richness and diversity of global cinema through this festival. As part of UCLan’s celebrations for International Women’s Day, we have chosen two films, Parallel Mothers and Portrait of a Lady on Fire, whose powerful storytelling and representation of women highlight the importance of gender equality, and the need to celebrate and uplift women’s voices and stories. We hope that everyone who attends will leave with a greater appreciation for the ways in which international cinema can enrich our lives and broaden our horizons.”
Other films being shown during the festival include:
Friday 10 March, 6.30pm
The Guardian/ Da Hu Fa
A ground-breaking animated film from Chinese director Zhigang Yang, which blends traditional and contemporary styles to tell a poignant story of bravery, deep friendship and love. Presented with a talk on the contextualisation of Chinese animation.
Saturday 11 March, 6.30pm
FLEE, a powerful and moving animated documentary from Danish director Jonas Poher Rasmussen, which tells the true story of a young man’s journey as he flees his home country of Afghanistan and seeks refuge in Europe. Followed by a Q&A and discussion with the audience on identity, acceptance of sexuality and dealing with trauma.
Sunday 12 March, 6.30pm
Portrait of a Lady on Fire, a sumptuous period drama from French director Céline Sciamma, which explores themes of love and desire in the context of an unconventional romance between an aristocrat and a painter commissioned to paint her portrait in 18th-century France. Accompanied by a talk by Dr Fred Brayard, senior lecturer at the University of Central Lancashire.
For more information about the festival, including the schedule of events and how to reserve your free seat, please visit: https://PrestonInternationalFilmFestival.eventbrite.co.uk
