The Afyonkarahisar Film Festival has officially launched at the Akrones Hotel Kocatepe Congress Center, running until October 11. Under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the festival is drawing significant interest this year, according to Afyonkarahisar Governor Kübra Güran Yiğitbaşı, who emphasized its value for the city.
This year, the festival features special content dedicated to Palestine, highlighting the power of cinema, literature, and art. Over 2,000 short films from more than 109 countries, including the USA, India, France, Italy, and Germany, have been submitted, showcasing immense global interest.
In a nod to the festival's theme, a special award titled the 'Great Offensive Special Award' will be presented to a documentary film by students from Afyon Kocatepe University. Additionally, the 'Free Palestine Honor Award' was given to Palestinian director Darin Sallam, who expressed his pride and gratitude upon receiving it.
Sallam remarked on the ongoing struggles faced in Palestine and reiterated the importance of the phrase 'Free Palestine,' which remains close to the hearts of many. He also announced the screening of his film 'Farha' during the festival.
The festival will also host discussions featuring actor Sefa Zengin and director Tarkan Karlıdağ, along with a gathering of the 'Nefes Yer Eksi İki' film crew, enhancing its cultural offerings.