IFFR CineMart: Teams Tackle Urgent Issues with Artistic Excellence
New IFFR Pro Head Marten Rabarts highlights the heightened sense of urgency and artistic merit among projects at this year's CineMart.
"Filmmakers are aligning their artistic vision with the pressing socio-political realities we face, exploring themes of authoritarianism, colonialism, and even near-future dystopias," Rabarts remarks.
Notable examples include Marcelo Gomes and Cao Guimarães' "Cape of Pleasures" and Cheryl Dunye's "Black Is Blue." Both queer filmmakers, Dunye explores the precariousness of the LGBTQ+ community under the current political landscape.
Increased Quantity Meets High Quality
Beyond the artistic depth, CineMart has expanded its slate with 24 selected titles, including an enhanced Darkroom work-in-progress section featuring 12 projects.
Back in Full Throttle
Despite being the third in-person edition since the pandemic, this year marks a return to full capacity. "We're the OG gangster of co-production markets, and we're back in full strength," Rabarts states.
Collaboration and Connectivity
With the challenges posed by the streaming landscape and declining revenue streams, producers are increasingly seeking partnerships. Rabarts emphasizes the importance of collective efforts, citing the example of "Viêt and Nam," which brought together multiple European partners despite being produced in the Philippines.
Staying True to IFFR's Vision
While embracing global diversity, CineMart remains committed to the festival's reputation for showcasing innovative and boundary-pushing films.
"Producers know they're getting the first bite of a very fresh apple here," Rabarts says. "We'll continue to present projects that are both artistically impeccable and reflect the urgency of our times."
The 42nd edition of CineMart will be held from February 2-5.