Press releases

MINSK, 17 October (BelTA) – The line-up of the 25th edition of the Minsk International Film Festival Listapad will include 167 films, Listapad Program Director Igor Sukmanov told reporters on 17 October, BelTA has learned.

“This year the festival will feature 167 films from 48 countries. Two countries – South Africa and Kenya – will make their debut at the festival. Twelve movies were shortlisted for the main contest of feature films, while 13 films will compete in the documentary category. We will see 11 debut entries at the Youth on the March contest. Traditionally, out-of-competition screenings will also be held,” Igor Sukmanov said.

In his words, Listapad gives an opportunity to communicate views and raise topical issues of today. “The 25th edition of the Minsk International Film Festival Listapad will be held under the slogan Getting to Know the Big, Wide World and will be dedicated to famous director Kira Muratova. This slogan is very important for us. Our project provides a venue for making a statement. A good film should leave an aftertaste; it is not an antidote to boredom; this kind of films makes us think and gives an impetus for personal growth. We are a capital of culture; this should have a proud sound. We have an opportunity to bring the best the film industry has to offer and to screen these must-see films during one week. I believe this is a very important mission,” Igor Sukmanov said.

The 25^th edition of the Minsk International Film Festival Listapad will be held in the Belarusian capital on 2-9 November. Listapad’s opening film will be the drama Cold War by Pawel Pawlikowski. The previous work by the director is Oscar-Winning Ida which was awarded Sold and Silver at Listapad in 2013.

The founders of the festival are the Culture Ministry of Belarus and the Minsk City Hall. The festival is organized by the ART Corporation center of visual and performing arts. The general partner is Shchodraya Mastercard. Official partners include Kinovideoprokat of the Minsk City Hall, Falcon Club Cinema Boutique, Belavia national air carrier and Beltelecom. ByCard will be an official ticket operator. The festival is supported by the Belarusian TV and Radio Company, the National Film Studio Belarusfilm and the Forte advertising agency.