The Bangkok International Film Festival 2009 24th-30th September 2009
The festival takes on a ‘classical’ theme
The Tourism Authority of Thailand, in collaboration with The Federation of National Film Associations of Thailand (FNFAT) proudly presents the 7th Bangkok International Film Festival 2009. The event will be held from 24th to 30th September 2009 at SF World Cinema, Central World and Paragon Cineplex, Siam Paragon. More than 80 feature films selected by the Thai Film Director’s Association will be shown throughout the festival. The Golden Kinnaree Award ceremony will be held at Chatrium Suites Bangkok, a Dusit Thani hotels partner.
Mr. Weerasak Kowsurat, Chairman of the Tourism Authority of Thailand on the importance of the festival:
“The Bangkok International Film Festival (BIFF) is considered an important international festival which now attracts respect and support within both the domestic and international film industries. Moreover, it raises the profile of Thailand as a nation of culture, and has tangible economic benefits. One should remember that the film industry produces significant revenue to the Thai economy. The festival also attracts a tremendous number of tourists to Thailand. The TAT has worked on this festival for seven consecutive years. The festival continues with the co-operation and commitment of all participants. It is a great opportunity to promote the Thai film industry and also promote Thailand not only as the entertainment hub of the region, but as an increasingly important international filmmaking centre”
Mr. Jareuk Kaljareuk, the chairman of FNFAT, and the Festival Director of BIFF’09, outlined a few of the highlights of this year’s event:
“The opening ceremony of BIFF’09 will be held in front of Central World. The ceremony will take on a classical theme, emphasizing the rich cultural heritage of Thailand, and the important and long-held role of film within Thai culture. The welcoming banquet will be held near the river of Thai Culture, the Chao Phraya River. The film program will reflect and display the growing strength of filmmakers in the ASEAN region, the role of film in rapidly changing societies, and the technological developments that have made this possible. The program will focus particularly on the new generation of filmmakers in the region, throughout Asia, and around the world”
Mr Jareuk sees the Bangkok International Film Festival also as an important showcase for Thailand’s film industry:
“For a number of years, the Thai film industry has expanded both in its technological advances, its professional skills, and its artistic development. It is ready to take its place as a leading member of the international filmmaking community.
We are delighted to welcome guests to the festival both from within Thailand and from across the world. We expect that this year’s festival will attract a number of celebrities, directors, and producers, who will join us to participate in the Bangkok International Film Festival. I look forward to giving more detail over the coming weeks.”
