Focus on 'Networks Within'

Discussants at the seminar

The latest lecture programme was held at Begum Sufia Kamal Auditorium, National Museum, on December 27. The topic this year was 'Networks Within', presented by renowned Indian short filmmaker Amar Kanwar.

Kanwar, in his paper, basically focused on the need for cohesion among the short filmmakers of the subcontinent. According to him, the short filmmakers of the subcontinent face common hurdles, such as political instability, obstacles created by the government and media aggression (mainstream cinema, television). "Short filmmakers should regularly exchange views and share the available facilities," said Kanwar.

Screening a few clippings from movies made by him, Kanwar in the seminar expressed the opinion that reality can be presented aesthetically in short films. He said that different combinations of time and space create a unique reality in a short film. Consequently the filmmakers must have a clear view of the nature of reality they are trying to create according to the demand of contemporary times.

After his presentation, Professor Ferdaus Azim, Mahmudul Hossain and Italian short filmmaker Fabrizio Ferrari made their comments on the topic. They also focused on the collaborative works of the short and independent filmmakers in the subcontinent.

The Alamgir Kabir Memorial Lecture was presided over by Hasnat Abdul Hai, the chairperson of the festival committee.