Dominican cinematography celebrates a historic milestone at the 77th Locarno International Film Festival, with an outstanding participation of 15 filmmakers, including three important awards in different sections of the event.
The 2D animated film “Olivia & Las Nubes”, directed by Tomás Pichardo, and produced by Amelia del Mar Hernández and Fernando Santos Díaz, was recognized with a special mention in the prestigious Concorso Cineasti del Presente section, marking a historic moment for the Dominican film industry, being the first animated film to be part of such a prestigious event. “Olivia & Las Nubes” is a winning project of the Film Promotion Fund (Fonprocine), which is carried out by the General Directorate of Cinema of the Dominican Republic.
Also, “Un funeral para Lola”, a project in development, directed by Iván de Lara and produced by José María Pimentel, was awarded the prestigious Open Doors – OIF – ACP – EU Award. The award includes a comprehensive consultancy of up to 18 months, including script analysis, story editing and much more, thanks to the support of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF) and Initiative Film.
In turn, the project “Que te vaya bonito, Rico” by filmmaker Joel Alfonso Vargas, won Best Director in the Pardi di Domani (Short Film Competition) section of the Concorso Corti d’ Autore de Locarno.
Dominican cinema was also present in the Open Doors Screenings section, dedicated to promoting independent cinema and supporting international professionals. In this category, the film “Bachata de Biónico”, directed by Yoel Morales and produced by Cristian Mojica, and the short film “Sirena”, directed by Olivia de Camps and produced by Lei González, captured the public’s attention and critical acclaim at the screenings held in this context.
This is the third year that the DGCINE has signed an agreement with the Locarno Festival, reaffirming its commitment to the promotion of Dominican talent on the international scene. Thanks to this collaboration, Nidsbelle Guzmán of “Cronos Films & Productions” and Cristian Mojica of “Mentes Fritas Film Productions” participated in Match Me!, an initiative designed to connect emerging producers with potential international partners and collaborators. Both were awarded accreditations, accommodation and financial support to finance their airline tickets.
About the Locarno Film Festival
The Locarno International Film Festival is known for its focus on auteur cinema and independent productions. In addition to its main competition, the festival offers several parallel sections, retrospectives and special events that celebrate diversity and innovation in film.
Source:presidencia.gob.do
