…Films have potential to positively impact on human lives-Organisers
From Noah Ebije, Kaduna
As 15 countries, including India across the world are set to storm the 8th edition of Kaduna film festival with 168 new films, an Expert in film making and Executive Director Kaduna international film festival, Mr. Israel Kashim Audu has said that every film has the potential to impact on human lives positively.
Audu also disclosed that over 15 countries across the world, including India that is renowned for film creativity, are set to storm the 8th edition of Kaduna international film festival scheduled for ending of August, 2025.
He added that this year edition of the festival received over 2,000 entries from over 50 countries with Uganda having the highest number of entries for the third time participation.
Addressing a press conference on this year’s theme of the festival, “Film for Social Change”, Mr. Audu who is also the Vice chairman Nigerian film festivals Association, said out of the 2,000 entries, only 168 were selected.
“The festival this year received over 2,000 entries from over 50 countries with Uganda having the highest number of entries for the third time at KADIFF. The festival through the 9 member board of Jurors selected 168 films with several nominations from 15 countries including Uganda, Nigeria, Kenya, Russia Federation, Finland, France, United State of America, India, Zambia, Tunisia, Cameroon, Ghana, among others.
“Film possesses the potential to discuss issues embedded in the reality of man’s society. This is because, from its beginning, film was considered a realist medium because its mechanical reproduction by a photochemical process appears to “catch reality on the wing”. Also, film combines three powerful elements, namely image, story, and sound to give context and meaning to the story being told.
“Film tells us stories about themes of everyday experiences like love, hope, death, good, evil, violence, and peace. Therefore, film is attractive to people of different age groups, because it tells stories with which we could associate.
“Film can be an effective tool to create meaningful social impact. It’s a persuasive artform that can entertain, educate and inspire people to take action. They can help shape public opinion, foster a sense of responsibility towards urgent issues, and can ultimately, change policy and laws.
“Films are designed to mimic real life and conversely, we often emulate the behaviors we observe on screen. in reverse, we mimic behaviors we see on screen. From speech patterns to our everyday appearance, there’s no doubt movies influence our daily lives. Robert Altman an American film director and screenwriter describes “filmmaking as the opportunity to live many lifetimes”
“We spend around six hours a day consuming media from all corners—TVs, phones, the endless scroll on social media. It’s especially true for the young ones among us. Ever checked how much time you spend on TikTok or Instagram? It’s eye-opening. At this point, Our lives are becoming a reflection of every story, every post we’ve ever seen.
“The impact of films on our lives is undeniable. Hence the theme for this year’s 8th Kaduna international film festival “Film for social change”.
“What this means is that creators hold the power to become the drivers of the future. As creatives, we have the responsibility to use our craft to influence and inspire. Our tools — the script, the camera, the edit suite—are instruments of change. For the creatives out there. Sometimes we might feel too small to make an impact, but the big stories always start small. Network with peers in the industry and tailor your work to make positive changes.
“This year we are also bringing skills acquisition program to empower 200 youths. The skills will feature Hand bugger, Pizza, Yogurt, Custard, Bournvita, Body wash, Humra, Turaren wuta, Paint making and Palm oil anf rice. There will be starter packs for some lucky participants.
“Over the years Kaduna international film festival has grown with a wide reach and globally accepted around the world, as we celebrate our eight (8) anniversary this year we are happy to announce in partnership with Lipton a competition for young filmmakers.
“We are calling on young Filmmakers to submit a short film of not more than 10 minutes that depicts friends or families telling a story on how you take your breakfast with Lipton. Winners will go home with some gift items and will be announced during the 8th Kaduna international film festival closing ceremony.
“The festival will feature activities like Master classes, film screenings, exhibitions, panel sessions, workshops, awards, tourism (to places like Kaduna museum, Zazzau emirate, Fifth chukker and Arewa House), networking, partnership and business deal opportunities, and cultural displays.
“I cannot but thank the Kaduna state government under the leadership of His Excellency Sen. Uba Sani for the support, commitment and interest for the youth and creatives. Thank you for providing us with the enabling environment to host a smooth film festival in Kaduna state Nigeria.
“As we prepare to host the 8th Kaduna international film festival and with my position as the vice chairman Nigerian film festivals Association, this is a call and appeal for stakeholders, government and investors to support film festivals as it is the only platform where creatives and film practitioners meet to network, market, exhibit, sign deals and seek collaboration to promote their work globally”. Audu said.
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