The 8th iteration of the Black Star International Film Festival (BSIFF) is set to grace Accra, Ghana, from September 18th to 24th, 2023. Centered around the theme “Tech in Film: Exploring the Role of Technology in Filmmaking in Africa,” this year’s festival underscores the BSIFF’s dedication to spotlighting cinematic advancements on the continent and advocating for a film industry that constantly pushes its creative and technical boundaries.
At the launch event held on August 23, 2023, Philippa Bentuma Arthur, the festival director, highlighted the significance of the chosen theme, emphasizing the profound effect of technology on filmmaking. Juliet Asante, CEO of the National Film Authority and BSIFF’s founder, echoed this sentiment, stating that embracing technology is pivotal for filmmakers to stay relevant.
The festival’s schedule is packed with a diverse array of international films that showcase the innovative utilization of technology in the filmmaking process. Attendees can also look forward to engaging workshops and panel discussions that delve into the latest trends in film technology. The grand culmination of the event will be an awards gala, celebrating the outstanding films of the festival.
Among the distinguished guests at the launch was H.E. Irchad Razaaly, the Ambassador of the European Union in Ghana, who lauded the EU’s commitment to supporting Ghana’s filmmaking sector and creative industries, aiming to foster more opportunities for young talents.
The 8th BSIFF boasts sponsorship from a range of influential entities including the European Union, Mann Robinson Distribution, WiFlix, Indie Rights, Tecno Ghana, Silverbird Cinemas, Spanish Embassy, NAFTI, University of Ghana – School of Performing Arts, and others.
The festival welcomes participation from filmmakers, producers, distributors, and industry stakeholders alike. Interested parties can find detailed information about the official festival program and ticketing on the website www.bsiff.org. The event promises to be a nexus of technological innovation, creative inspiration, and cinematic excellence.
