ABIFF – Animation Bucharest International Film Festivalthe annual event dedicated to animation, opens its doors for the fourth edition between 6 and 8 September 2024. The festival brings a diverse selection of films and events to Bucharest and 11 other cities in the country: Pitesti, Sinaia, Alexandria, Slănic-Prahova, Brad, Caransebeș, Lupeni, Oțelu Roșu, Petroșani, Reșita and Vulcan, exploring the intersection between emerging technologies and the art of classical animation.
A platform for the animation community
ABIFF is more than a film festival; is a dynamic platform for the animation community in Romania and around the world. The event facilitates the exchange of knowledge and experiences between established professionals, early stage students and simple animation enthusiasts. Through screenings, workshops for high school students and masterclasses, ABIFF encourages dialogue and collaboration, stimulating the development of the local and international animation industry.
Diversity and excellence in the program
This year’s edition presents a curated selection of films, reflecting the diversity and excellence of contemporary animation. From moving stories to daring visual experiments, the ABIFF 2024 program promises to captivate and inspire audiences of all ages.
- International competitions: Animation shorts from around the world, covering a wide range of genres, techniques and themes. From traditional 2D animation to state-of-the-art 3D animation, from stop-motion to experimental animation, the international competition provides a comprehensive insight into the latest trends and innovations in the field.
- Animations for children: Screenings specially designed for young audiences, promoting educational values and quality entertainment. The selected films address themes such as friendship, courage, respect for nature and diversity in a way that is accessible to children.
- UNATC Student Creations: A perspective on the future of Romanian animation, presenting works by talented students from the “ILCaragiale” National University of Theater and Cinematographic Art. This section provides a platform for young creators to showcase their artistic vision.
- Constantin Păun retrospective: A tribute to the director Constantin Păun, through a selection of short films that marked the history of domestic cinema. This retrospective is a unique opportunity to rediscover the works of a visionary artist and to understand the evolution of Romanian animation over time.
Special events at Cinemax, Veranda, Bucharest:
- Opening of the festival, Friday, September 6, at 19:00: Four Souls of Coyote (Hungary, 2023), a profound and moving film premiering in Romania that explores the struggle of Native Americans to protect the land of their ancestors in the face of industrial expansion. The film harmoniously combines elements of magical realism, bringing to the fore universal themes such as the connection with nature, the struggle for identity and the importance of preserving traditions. The film was awarded the Jury Prize at the Annecy Animation Film Festival, 2023.
- Special screening, Saturday, September 7, 4:15 p.m.: MK Ciurlionis AI (Lithuania, 2023) – ABIFF is honored to present the first animated feature film created entirely with the help of artificial intelligence and distributed in cinemas in Lithuania. This ground-breaking film marks a turning point in the history of cinema, opening new horizons for creativity and artistic exploration.
- Special screening, Sunday, September 8, 4:45 p.m.: Art College 1994 (China, 2023) takes us into the effervescent atmosphere of the 90s in China, following a group of students from the Southern China Academy of Arts. The film masterfully captures the dilemmas and aspirations of a generation caught between tradition and modernity, in a country undergoing transformation. Through its complex characters and subtle narrative, the film explores themes such as the search for identity, friendship, love and the struggle for ideals in an ever-changing social and political context. The film had its world premiere in official competition at the 2023 Berlinale.
- Closing of the festival, Sunday, September 8, 19:00: In the wonderful forest (France, Luxembourg, 2024) takes us on a magical journey with Angelo, a 10-year-old boy who gets lost in a mysterious forest. The delightful and humorous animation explores themes of courage, friendship and self-discovery, providing a memorable cinematic experience for children and adults alike. The film reminds us of the importance of imagination and connection with nature, in a world increasingly dominated by technology. Special screening at Cannes International Film Festival, 2024.
Online Masterclasses: Exploring New Frontiers in Animation
ABIFF 2024 is not just limited to film screenings, but also offers opportunities for learning and professional development through two exceptional online masterclasses, delivered by internationally recognized experts:
- “Artificial Intelligence and animated films”: Antanas Skucas, director and digital artist, will provide a detailed insight into how artificial intelligence is transforming the animation industry. Attendees will learn about the latest AI tools and technologies used in animation production, as well as the trends that will shape the future of this field. The Masterclass will also include concrete examples of projects that demonstrate the creative potential of AI in animation. (Sunday, September 8, 10:00 a.m.)
- “Sound as Score: From Disney Classics to Modern Avant-Garde Animation”: Julius Zubavičius, award-winning sound designer and composer, will share his extensive experience in creating sound for animated films. Participants will learn about the importance of sound in building atmosphere, developing characters, and guiding narrative. The masterclass will include detailed analysis of iconic films as well as practical tips for creating a special sound experience. (Sunday, September 8, 12:00)
Both masterclasses are free and require prior registration.
Jury: An international team of experts
The ABIFF 2024 Jury, which will award the Best Children’s Animation Award and the Best Author Animation Award, is made up of professionals with extensive experience in cinematography and animation, ensuring a competent and balanced assessment of the 22 short films in the sections competitive:
- Vlad Ioachimescu (Romania) – PhD university lecturer and Dean of the Faculty of Film, UNATC, with extensive experience in sound design and visual effects.
- Lilia P. Schneider (Germany/Ukraine) – Producer, author and director of animated films, specializing in digital content and VR cinematic storytelling.
- Eirini Vianelli (Greece) – Award-winning director, screenwriter and animator, with works presented and awarded at renowned international festivals.
- Ilija Tatić (Serbia) – Festival producer with rich experience in organizing and promoting cultural events.
We welcome you with open arms at ABIFF Animation Bucharest International Film Festival #4 to celebrate together the art of animation and explore new creative horizons.
ABIFF is a festival dedicated to animation, distinguished by diversity, innovation and community involvement. With a varied and rich program, ABIFF offers a unique and educational cinematic experience for all ages.
ABIFF Animation Bucharest International Film Festival #4 is produced de Mockra Productions and co-financed by The Administration of the National Cultural Fund (AFCN).
The project does not necessarily represent the position of the Administration of the National Cultural Fund. AFCN is not responsible for the content of the project or how the results of the project may be used. These are entirely the responsibility of the beneficiary of the funding.
Partners: National University of Theater and Cinematography “ILCaragiale din Bucharest”, Cinemax Veranda
Media partners: Radio Romania Cultural, IQads, Ziarul Metropolis, LiterNet.ro, Happ.ro, Cinefan.ro, Aarc.ro, Movie News, Filme-cărți.ro
Source: www.iqads.ro
