Listen to the article
The 8th edition of the Batroun Mediterranean Film Festival is set to take place from September 5 to September 8, infusing cultural vitality into the historic city of Batroun, renowned for its mesmerizing blue seas and rich heritage.
This year’s Batroun Mediterranean Film Festival promises a diverse lineup of carefully curated films that highlight the incredible talents of filmmakers from across the Mediterranean region and beyond. Cinema lovers, local residents, and international visitors alike will gather to experience this unique celebration of Mediterranean cinema.
A panel of distinguished jurors will be present to evaluate the films, including Calmin Borel and Camille Hebert from France, Jukka-Pekka Laakso from Finland, and Marilyne Naaman from Lebanon. Their expertise ensures that the films selected will reflect artistic excellence and represent the shared narratives that connect the Mediterranean region.
Described as “a lively cultural event featuring both international and national competitions alongside professional projects,” the festival celebrates the collective identity of Mediterranean nations. The sea, which serves as a physical and symbolic link between these countries, fosters a deep connection that transcends cultural differences. Festival director Nicolas Khabbaz remarked in a previous interview with This Is Beirut, “The people of the Mediterranean share so many commonalities. The sea itself is in perpetual motion, and each person believes that crossing it will bring them to a different place. This idea is central to many of our recurring themes; boredom, disappointment, and the passion for a better life.” “Sometimes, time provides answers to the many questions we ask ourselves,” he said.
First launched in 2017, the Batroun Mediterranean Film Festival was born out of a desire for decentralization and inclusivity. It is a festival for everyone, with spectators watching the screenings either from their chairs, standing on staircases or balustrades. It brings together an eclectic audience that includes film enthusiasts, the people of Batroun, and tourists from across the globe, particularly those hailing from the Mediterranean region.
This year, the festival will introduce a new and exciting component: a three-day residency program supported by Global Media Makers. For the first time, five selected film projects will benefit from this program, allowing participants to work closely with industry professionals and refine their short film scripts. This residency offers a unique opportunity to develop creative ideas while enjoying the vibrant atmosphere of the festival, including screenings, activities, and the stunning sunsets Batroun is famous for.
Batroun itself, with its captivating natural beauty and historical landmarks, provides the perfect backdrop for this celebration of cinema. The city is rich in history, with its blue seas and green landscapes evoking a sense of escape. Batroun’s ancient Phoenician port retains the grandeur of a bygone era, and its lighthouse remains a prominent landmark. The famed Phoenician wall, standing proudly against the passing of time, continues to inspire poets, photographers, and filmmakers alike. As the waves crash against its shores, the films of the Batroun Mediterranean Film Festival will be projected, creating lasting memories for all those in attendance. With a focus on international collaboration and artistic exploration, the Batroun Mediterranean Film Festival continues to build bridges between cultures, bringing people together through the universal language of film.
