Rotterdam Film Fest Opens With *Fabula* and Urges Preservation of Cinerama Theater

– The 54th IFFR opened with Dutch film *Fabula*, attracting over 800 attendees. – The film highlights Jos’s quest for understanding through colorful interactions. – New Displacement Film Fund was announced, to be chaired by Cate Blanchett. – A petition to save Cinerama theater has gathered nearly 30,000 signatures. – The festival will screen 400 films, closing with *This City Is A Battlefield*.

Opening Night of IFFR: A Celebration of Film
The 54th International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR) kicked off its festivities on Thursday at the Oude Luxor Theater, captivating over 800 attendees. The event featured the Dutch film Fabula, directed by Michiel ten Horn, who shared the stage with cast members and producers. According to producer Sander Verdonk, “Fabula is a film that is a homage to the art of storytelling.”

A Story of Determination and Discovery
The crime comedy centers on Jos, determined to understand his family’s troubled past. Along his journey, he encounters a variety of quirky characters who gradually help him unravel the mystery. Producer Thomas den Drijver remarked on the project’s long journey and expressed pride in its screening at RIFFR.

Supporting Displaced Filmmakers and Preservation Efforts
Festival director Vanja Kaludjercic unveiled new initiatives, including the Displacement Film Fund, intended to uplift filmmakers from displaced backgrounds. Cate Blanchett will chair the selection committee for this inaugural fund. The festival aims to create authentic narratives surrounding the experiences of displaced individuals.

A Call for Community Support
Kaludjercic drew attention to an urgent petition aimed at preserving the historic Cinerama theater in Rotterdam. She noted that the venue is a significant community space, stating, “Cinerama is not only a cinema, but also a communal space for the citizens of Rotterdam.” The campaign has gathered nearly 30,000 signatures to prevent its demolition.

Art and Democracy Intertwined
Addressing the audience, Kaludjercic emphasized the festival’s mission to uphold democracy and community. She stated, “At the IFFR, we remain steadfast in our belief in democracy and the common good.” Her remarks echoed the festival’s commitment to connect artists and amplify vital stories through cinema.

What’s Next for IFFR
The festival is set to screen 400 films, including shorts, concluding on February 9 with This City Is A Battlefield, which depicts Indonesia’s independence struggle in 1946.

Quotes Highlighting Vision and Commitment
– “Fabula is a film that is a homage to the art of storytelling.” – Sander Verdonk
– “Cinerama is not only a cinema, but also a communal space for the citizens of Rotterdam.” – Vanja Kaludjercic
– “At the IFFR, we remain steadfast in our belief in democracy and the common good.” – Vanja Kaludjercic

Key Highlights
– IFFR opened with Fabula, set in the historic Oude Luxor Theater, drawing over 800 attendees.
– The film explores Jos’s journey to uncover his family’s dark past through vibrant characters.
– New initiatives, including a fund for displaced filmmakers, were unveiled, chaired by Cate Blanchett.
– Kaludjercic stressed the importance of preserving the Cinerama community theater, supported by nearly 30,000 petition signatures.
– The festival will screen 400 films and conclude with This City Is A Battlefield on February 9.

Conclusion
The IFFR’s opening night radiated with excitement and purpose, celebrating storytelling and the arts while advocating for community spaces. With a focus on displaced filmmakers and a commitment to preservation, the festival cements its reputation as a vital cultural platform, echoing the transformative power of film to shape perceptions and foster connections.

The IFFR’s opening night radiated with excitement and purpose, celebrating storytelling and the arts while advocating for community spaces. With a focus on displaced filmmakers and a commitment to preservation, the festival cements its reputation as a vital cultural platform, echoing the transformative power of film to shape perceptions and foster connections.

Original Source: deadline.com