ROTTERDAM, Jan 9 (ZIZ): The upcoming 53rd edition of the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), scheduled from January 25th to February 4th, 2024, promises an enriching exploration of the cinematic world. Renowned names such as Sandra Hüller, Anne Fontaine, Alexander Kluge, and Marco Bellocchio are confirmed as special guests for the exclusive IFFR Talks programme, accompanied by other distinguished filmmakers and industry figures participating in the RTM and IFFR Pro events.
The IFFR Talks programme aims to provide unparalleled insights and fresh perspectives into the art and craft of filmmaking. The star-studded lineup includes celebrated individuals such as Sandra Hüller, recognized for her exceptional work in films like Jonathan Glazer’s “The Zone of Interest” (featured in the IFFR 2024 Limelight) and her award-winning performance in “Anatomy of a Fall,” which earned her the European Film Award for Best Actress.
French-Luxembourg filmmaker Anne Fontaine will engage in discussions about her illustrious career, culminating in her 19th feature, “Boléro,” making its world premiere in the Limelight programme. Joining her, Alexander Kluge, a trailblazing figure in New German Cinema and avant-garde filmmaking, will explore his latest creation, “Cosmic Miniatures,” set for its world premiere at IFFR 2024, alongside his recent forays into artificial intelligence.
Renowned Italian director Marco Bellocchio will grace IFFR with his latest cinematic exploration, “Rapito,” offering audiences a glimpse into his profound examination of Italian history. Additionally, US filmmaker Billy Woodberry, a pioneer of the LA Rebellion movement, will share insights into his career and serve on the Tiger Jury for 2024, while presenting his latest biographical film, “Mário,” focusing on the revolutionary pan-African figure Mário de Andrade, in its world premiere at the festival.
The festival will also feature a masterclass by cartoonist, animator, and filmmaker Bill Plympton, showcasing his expertise as an independent animator, with his new feature “Slide” premiering during the event.
Grimm Vandekerckhove will take center stage during a special Talk, offering a deep dive into his cinematographic approach as the recipient of the festival’s prestigious Robby Müller Award, honoring outstanding artists working behind the lens.
**Focus Programmes**
IFFR’s retrospective Focus programmes will spotlight the careers of extraordinary filmmakers, with each program serving as the subject of an in-depth IFFR Talk. The celebration includes a Focus on Hong Kong filmmaker Scud, presenting his final film, “Naked Nations – Tribe Hong Kong,” marking the culmination of his thought-provoking career.
Moreover, the festival will delve into the artistic world of Scottish artist Rachel Maclean, exploring her latest film and installation, “DUCK,” premiering at IFFR. The Italian duo Manetti Bros. will engage in discussions about their genre-defying cinematic universe, and the radical Colectivo Los Ingrávidos from Tehuacán, Mexico, will explore their extensive body of work spanning over 500 films across 12 years.
A panel discussion will commemorate the Focus: Chile in the Heart programme, reflecting on the 50th anniversary of the coup against Chile’s democratically elected government, highlighting the subsequent development of Chilean cinema in exile.
**RTM Talks and IFFR Pro Dialogues**
RTM Day on January 26th at LantarenVenster will feature a program dedicated to local filmmaking talent, hosting three RTM Talks. These discussions will spotlight lesser-known roles on film sets, explore decolonizing visual representations impacted by coloniality, and bridge the gap between filmmakers and artists operating in both the art and film domains.
During the IFFR Pro Days (January 26th to January 31st), the Pro Hub will be a focal point for industry professionals, hosting the IFFR Pro Dialogues—a series of industry panels tackling critical issues facing filmmakers and the industry. These dialogues aim to equip filmmakers with the necessary knowledge and tools to navigate the complex film landscape.
Distinguished moderators and speakers, including Nadia Denton, Kathleen McInnis, Maya Cade, and Stefan Borsos, will lead discussions covering impactful production strategies, independent film marketing, feminist reimaginings of archives, and the circulation of genre films in the festival circuit.
**Jury Announcements**
The festival announces the esteemed juries for its competitive sections: FIPRESCI, NETPAC, KNF, and the VPRO Big Screen Award, comprising international film journalists, Asian cinema specialists, Dutch film journalists, and a public selection, respectively.
The FIPRESCI jury members for 2024 include Ela Bittencourt, Darta Cerina, Panagiotis Kotzathanasis, Antonios Lagarias, and Ronald Rovers. Elena Larionova Haug, Donsaron Kovitvanitcha, and Andreas Ungerböck constitute the NETPAC Award jury, while the KNF jury comprises Ronald Glasbergen, Sebastiaan Khouw, and Ard Vijn. The VPRO Big Screen Award Jury members selected from an open call are Samina Khan, Sylvie de Leeuwe, Lisa van der Loos, Marcos Silva, and Paul Wessels.
The 53rd International Film Festival Rotterdam stands poised to offer an exceptional cinematic experience, bringing together celebrated filmmakers, industry professionals, and audiences alike to celebrate the art of filmmaking.
For more information and detailed schedules, visit the festival’s official website.
