BATUMI INTERNATIONAL ART-HOUSE FILM FESTIVAL

The Batumi International Art-House Film Festival (BIAFF) is an annual event that takes place in the city of Batumi, Georgia. The festival was first established in 2006 and has since become one of the most prominent film festivals in the Caucasus region, attracting filmmakers, actors, and cinema enthusiasts from around the world.

BIAFF focuses on showcasing independent and art-house films from a variety of countries and regions, with a particular emphasis on promoting the work of emerging filmmakers. The festival features a wide range of genres, including drama, comedy, documentary, and animation, and presents a selection of films that explore social, political, and cultural issues from diverse perspectives.

BIAFF is also committed to promoting dialogue and collaboration among filmmakers and industry professionals. The festival hosts a variety of workshops, masterclasses, and networking events, providing opportunities for filmmakers to connect with each other, share their experiences, and develop their craft.

In addition to the main competition program, BIAFF also features special screenings, retrospectives, and other events that celebrate the history and diversity of cinema. The festival has hosted numerous international guests over the years, including renowned filmmakers such as Abbas Kiarostami, Jim Jarmusch, and Bruno Dumont.

BIAFF takes place over several days in September, with screenings and events held in various venues throughout Batumi, including the Batumi State Drama Theatre and the Batumi Art Museum. The festival is organized by the Batumi Art-House Argani Association, a non-profit organization that is dedicated to promoting art and culture in the region.

Overall, the Batumi International Art-House Film Festival is an important cultural event in Georgia and the Caucasus region, offering a platform for independent and art-house cinema and fostering creative dialogue and collaboration among filmmakers and industry professionals.