The Resistance International Film Festival, in its 18th edition, has introduced the "Morteza Badge," a special award dedicated to documentarians whose works align with the ideologies of Martyr Morteza Avini, known as the Martyr of the Pen.

Why it matters:

The Morteza Badge award is part of the festival's efforts to recognize and celebrate documentary filmmaking that reflects the themes and values associated with Avini's legacy.

It also underscores the festival's commitment to promoting documentary films that embody the spirit of resistance and revolutionary ideals. This award not only honors the memory of Martyr Avini but also encourages filmmakers to produce content that resonates with the festival's core themes.

The big picture:

The International Resistance Film Festival continues to grow in stature, with a significant increase in documentary submissions this year. The festival has become a platform for showcasing high-quality documentaries from around the world, reflecting its role as a voice for the oppressed and a celebration of resistance narratives.

What he's saying:

The secretary of the festival and head of the Martyr Avini School of Art and Media, Jalal Ghafari, highlighted the surge in documentary submissions and the festival's efforts to honor works that align with Avini's ideologies. He emphasized the importance of the documentary committee's initiatives, including the use of artificial intelligence.

He also criticized the silence of prestigious international festivals regarding the crimes in Gaza  and said, “Resistance cinema will be the voice of the oppressed in the world.”

Key points:

  • The award was established to honor documentarians whose works reflect the ideals of Morteza Avini. 
  • There has been a notable increase in submissions from various regions and institutions, indicating both a growth in quality and quantity. 
  • The festival also features specialized meetings and courses on documentary filmmaking, including the use of AI in productions.

Go deeper:

The introduction of the "Morteza Badge" highlights the festival's focus on thematic alignment with revolutionary ideals. By recognizing and rewarding documentaries that embody these values, the festival aims to inspire a new generation of filmmakers to explore themes of resistance and social change. The integration of AI in documentary production also marks a technological shift in the festival's approach, aligning with broader trends in the film industry to leverage technology for creative storytelling.

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