Durres to host fourth film festival

TIRANA, July 6 – The coastal city of Durres has started preparations to host the fourth edition of its international film festival. Organizers say the festival, which is the biggest event Albania, will be held this summer following the cancellation of two other important events that had been scheduled for August 27 to September 2, 2011. The festival is held in two venues, the ancient Roman amphitheatre and the local Aleksander Moisiu theatre bringing together renowned international directors and actors to introduce their latest productions.
In last year’s edition, some 15 films competed in the festival’s two official categories, the Contemporary Visions and the Balkan World. The “Close Encounters” category was dedicated to France.
The participating movies included some of the best European 2009 and 2010 productions. The Albanian cinema was present with the Retrospective Homage showcasing the best movies by late actors and directors.
The Last Days of Emma Blank,” a Netherlands-Belgian co-production, was awarded the Golden Gladiator prize. The festival also served to promote tourism in Durres, a city which boasts a 2700-year-old history. It is supported by the Culture Ministry, the National Cinematography Centre and Durres Municipality.
Meanwhile, two important international festivals which were scheduled to be held this summer, have been postponed for next September due to lack of financial support by state institutions. The Butrint international theatre festival and the international festival of modern and contemporary dance have failed to get funds by the Ministry of Culture.