With the theme “Cinema – Soaring Creativity,” the 7th Hanoi International Film Festival (HANIFF) concluded with a grand closing ceremony on the evening of November 11, presenting a spectacular showcase of cinematic excellence.
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Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long presents the Best Feature Film award to “Hard Shell” from Iran. Photo: Cong An Nhan Dan |
The event, held under the patronage of the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism, along with the Hanoi Municipal People’s Committee, united 800 delegates from Vietnam and across the globe, emphasizing the country’s dedication to celebrating the art of filmmaking.
During the festival, 117 films from 51 countries and territories graced the screens of three prominent cinemas in Hanoi, transforming the city into a bustling epicenter for international cinematic culture and exchange.
Vi Kien Thanh, Director of the Department of Cinema, highlighted the festival’s comprehensive professional activities, including seminars, exhibitions, a film market, and meaningful exchanges between filmmakers and audiences. These elements, he said, are instrumental in cultivating a dynamic and vibrant cinematic landscape in Vietnam, fostering collaboration and creativity.
The events attracted not only a vast number of local filmmakers but also international attendees, expanding the festival’s reach and appeal on a global scale.
“The festival also enriches Hanoi’s entertainment offerings and boosts the city’s tourism potential,” added Vi Kien Thanh, underscoring the multifaceted impact of the event.
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The captivating poster of the award-winning Iranian film, “Hard Shell” |
The closing ceremony served as a pinnacle moment, with the Organizing Committee presenting accolades to exceptional films, actors, and directors. “Hard Shell” from Iran garnered the Best Feature Film award, while “A Bird Flew” from Colombia won the Best Short Film category.
Nasim Forough, director of “Typesetter” (Iran), received the Best Short Film Director award, and Majid-Reza Mostafavi, director of “Hard Shell,” was honored with the Best Feature Film Director title. Payman Maadi’s compelling performance in “Hard Shell” earned him the Best Feature Film Actor award, and Tiina Tauraite’s captivating portrayal in “8 Views of Lake Biwa” (Estonia) secured the Best Feature Film Actress recognition.
Ngoc Xuan, a Vietnamese actress, shone at the festival, receiving the Promising Young Actress Award (aged 18 to 35) for her role in “Once Upon a Love Story.” Her achievement stood as a testament to the emerging talent in the Vietnamese film industry.
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Ngoc Xuan, Vietnam’s Promising Young Actress, captivated audiences with her performance in “Once Upon a Love Story.” Photo: Cong An Nhan Dan |
The Jury Prize for Feature Film was presented to “8 Views of Lake Biwa” (Estonia), and the Jury Prize for Short Film was awarded to “The Rubber Tappers” (Cambodia). Additionally, the Asian Film Commissions Network (AFCNet) Award was bestowed upon the feature film “Liar” (Russian Federation), and the Vietnamese Film Award for Audience Favorite went to the film “Our Blossom,” a collaborative project between Vietnam and Hungary.
The organizing committee also recognized directors and screenwriters of films showcasing Hanoi with certificates of merit from the Hanoi People’s Committee. Their contributions through their films have played a significant role in the socio-economic development of the capital, further enhancing Hanoi’s cultural allure.