In a press release distributed this Thursday by Camões – Institute of Cooperation and Language, Jorge António said that cinema in countries like Angola represents something very important, "not only with regard to preserving the memory of an entire people, but at the same time the image of an identity and development that can be shown to the rest of the world".
"Thus, organizing a festival like DOC Luanda will allow a reflection on other ways of thinking, looking and communicating, thus contributing to greater cultural development not only in Angola, but in the Portuguese-speaking community", said Jorge António, director and producer, mentioned in the note.
For this edition, the third of the festival, Angolan artist Imanni da Silva, one of the recognized names in national contemporary art, was invited to create the poster.
Imanni da Silva, an artist with a strong influence on surrealism and illustration, combines various techniques in her works (acrylic, oil with materials, collages and various finishes such as embroidery, gold leaf and crystals).
This year, DOC Luanda comes with some new features in terms of support, prizes, trophies and new partners, the note reads, adding that this festival, with an educational background, serves to encourage cultural exchange, establish a contemporary vision of world and Angola, through cinema and its history, thus also contributing to the future of the national cinema panorama.
The film sessions include an International Competition, to showcase recent authors and titles in world cinematography, and a National Competition, to publicize the most recent Angolan national production in short and feature film formats.
The public will also be treated to Thematic and non-competitive sessions, which aim to showcase films that are little seen and important to the culture and history of Angola, as well as highlighting authors and filmographies from world cinematography.
The festival program also includes a Tribute session, a way of paying homage to a figure (director, actor, technician) of national cinema, whose work was/is important in the development of the sector.
The program also includes masterclasses/meetings, a place for conversations and meetings with the public around topics of interest and important for the development of national cinema.
"The intention is that professionals of recognized merit and competence in their specialties will be invited to these meetings or masterclasses", highlights the press release.
Concerts/performing arts, a book and DVD fair and exhibitions make up the third edition of the festival, offering the public shows with renowned artists in the national scene of music, dance and theater and making them available to the community in general and to cinephiles and students all the countless editorial titles and film editions in 'home movie' format at reduced prices.
"Thematic exhibitions will be organized to promote knowledge and help disseminate the history of cinema", the document highlights.
