Great human stories

THE Malaysia International Film Festival (MIFFest) and Malaysia Golden Global Awards (MGGA) will be back next year, having received more than 100,000 audiences in their inaugural season. The second MIFFest will run from Feb 25 to March 2 next year, while the second MGGA is set for March 3.

MIFFest and MGGA chairman Joanne Goh said Humanity will be the main theme of the film festival, and it comprises two faces namely Despair and Hope.

“Hope is a common theme in films, as it means bringing joy and excitement, the most basic desires we long for. It is the most life-affirming aspect that we share,” she said in a statement recently.

“At the other end of the spectrum is despair. All our lives are touched by moments of loss, grief and tragedy. Films educate on how to handle these moments of extreme loss and how to move on with empathy and fortitude.

“The two elements will be presented in all of the films chosen to be screened at MIFFest. Film enthusiasts can look forward to forums and workshops conducted by renowned filmmakers.”

To discover talents of the creative arts, cinematic and entertainment industry, MIFFest brings in a new category, Southeast Asian Film Focus. This opens the doors for filmmakers from Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines, Vietnam and Singapore to showcase their films.

“Southeast Asian Film Focus is to highlight the diversity of cinematic creations and the richness of films from Southeast Asia, and to stimulate the creativity of regional filmmakers,” said Goh.

With the support of the National Film Development Corporation and Tourism Malaysia, MIFFest will showcase 20 local and international films.

MGGA will have two new award categories, Best Supporting Actor and Best Supporting Actress in addition to the existing Best Actor, Best Actress, Best Director, Best New Director, Best Film, Best Screenplay, Best Cinematography and Lifetime Achievement Award.

The winners are rewarded based on their commitment to humanitarian efforts and contributions to improve the lives of others.

“These events celebrate and champion humanity. They recognise and honour human excellence through films that inspire, enlighten and uplift the human spirit. MIFFest and MGGA also help to promote tourism and the diversity of Malaysian arts and culture and strengthen Malaysia’s position as a major creative hub within the Asean region,” said Goh.

Details at www.mgga.com.my/ and http://miffest.com.my.