A film, whether fiction or documentary, long or short, reflects the vision of its maker (s). Through his or her lens, we are challenged, innerved and enthused, an experience which expands the prism of our world view. This year, the International Oriental Film Festival of Geneva (FIFOG) invites us to travel back and forth from East to West, discovering women, destinies, sensibilities and perhaps ways to embody and bring to life a sense of hope.
For the 13th time, the FIFOG will allow us, far from the sensational headlines and tawdry tabloids of today’s news, to witness realities, lives that would otherwise remain unknown to us without the dedication and passion of these filmmakers. The success they encounter reflects the openness and demanding curiosity of the Geneva population towards the world; attributes that are anything but empty.
I would like to thank the leaders of FIFOG as well as those who host the screening of some 100 films on the program.
I wish you a very good festival!
Sami Kanaan
Administrative Advisor in charge of the Department of Culture and Sport of the City of Geneva