The inaugural Reykjavik International Film Festival was organized in November 2004 by a group of film professionals and enthusiasts who wanted to establish a major film event in Iceland’s capital that would enrich the local film culture as well as serve as an international attraction and promote Iceland among tourists from around the world.
One of the main goals of the Reykjavik International Film Festival is to support talented young filmmakers from Iceland and other Nordic countries. That’s why its program isn’t limited to film screenings. It also includes various workshops, symposiums, panel discussions, and other events where industry professionals can exchange professional experience and network.
Every year the Reykjavik International Film Festival screens about 100 films from more than 40 countries. Its program is divided into several sections, including New Visions (Grand Prix Competition), Open Seas (Out of Competition), Icelandic Panorama, A Different Tomorrow, Documentaries, Youth Program, Focus On, Emerging Master, Honorary Retrospective, and Golden Egg. Each section offers a great selection of films, be it acclaimed works by established filmmakers or debut works by emerging talent.
The festival’s competition is open to first and second films by up-and-coming filmmakers. The winner is chosen by an international jury. He or she receives the main award known as the Discovery of the Year Award or the Golden Puffin. Other awards given out at the festival include the Lifetime Achievement Award, the Creative Excellency Award, the Audience Award, the FIPRESCI Award, the Church of Iceland Award, and the Emerging Master. Not all of the special awards are presented each year.
The Reykjavik International Film Festival also hosts an extensive industry program titled RIFF Industry Days. It is a series of talks and workshops featuring speakers from world-class sales agencies and distributors.
Photo: riff.is
