Beyond the ostentation and glamour of film festivals.

Film festivals are not just about celebrities and red carpets. While the glamorous image projected by film festivals is part of their appeal, these events also serve a deeper and more meaningful purpose.

Maio Rivas & Reyson Velasquez - Charla debate en el QAFF 2022 © Fundacion QAFF

First, film festivals are an important platform for showcasing quality, artistically rich films that might not otherwise have the opportunity to be seen by a wider audience. Film festivals often showcase independent and low-budget films that would not have access to mass commercial distribution. By presenting these films at festivals, filmmakers have the opportunity to connect with audiences and industry professionals, which can lead to new distribution and financing opportunities.

In addition, film festivals are also a platform to discuss important and relevant issues in the film industry and society at large. Many festivals present panel programs and discussions that address issues such as diversity, gender equality and sustainability in the film industry. These discussions are important to foster dialogue and change in the film industry and society at large.

Film festivals also have a significant economic impact on the cities that host them. Festivals attract tourists and generate revenue for the hotel, restaurant and other local industries. In addition, many festivals also feature educational and community programs that engage youth and the local community, which can have a lasting impact on the culture and development of the host city.

However, beyond the red carpets and premiere parties, film festivals have a more far-reaching purpose. The purpose is to celebrate film, provide a platform for independent filmmakers and create opportunities for industry professionals to network and learn from each other. The glitz and glamour may attract attention, but it's the films and the people behind them that make film festivals truly special.

Of course, it would be wrong to say that celebrities and red carpets have no place at film festivals. After all, these events also celebrate the achievements of those who have had a significant impact on the film industry. Celebrities can help generate expectation and excitement around a festival, and they can also help draw attention to the films being shown.

But it is important to remember that film festivals should always focus on the films and the filmmakers who created them. Glitz and glamour can be fun, but what really matters are the films. Many festivals have sections dedicated to minority films and filmmakers from diverse cultures and backgrounds, giving them a platform to showcase their work and raise awareness about the importance of inclusion in the industry and offer free or low-cost screenings and events for the community, giving them access to films and events that might otherwise be inaccessible.

In other words, while film festivals have a glamorous image, they also serve a deeper and more meaningful purpose. They are an important platform for showcasing independent films and an opportunity to promote diversity and inclusion in the film industry and society at large, and they also have a significant economic and cultural impact on host cities, networking, promotional and marketing opportunities, and the possibility of receiving awards and recognition.