Short films feature bold themes in a sensitive way

Indian, international, contemporary and local films were screened across locations such as Goethe-Institut Max Mueller Bhavan, Loyola College, Ethiraj College, Women’s Christian College, Periyar Thidal, Panuval Book Store and Discovery Book Palace. The international roster consisted of films from Germany, Sweden, France, Switzerland, Cuba, Algeria, Iran, Turkey, Syria, and more.

“We ensured that the selected films dealt with contemporary issues using contemporary techniques, and sensitively handled the issues. Of the 50 films, 10 were Tamil-language films and documentaries. This year, all local selections were very brave in their subject matter, which is important due to art’s role in communication and awareness,” said Amudhan RP, founder of Marupakkam and director of the festival.

The highlight of this year’s festival was the Short Export 2019 – Made in Germany, which screened seven German films to illustrate and highlight the stylistic and artistic techniques employed by the filmmakers. Following all film screenings, a discussion open to the audience was held.

“I feel such film festivals exclusively for documentaries are very important in these times because they provide an opportunity for the audience to come together – though temporarily – as an intellectual and artistic community to share the truth, ethics, experience and knowledge in detail,” added Amudhan.