Introduction to Flanders Film Days
Flanders Film Days is a prestigious event that takes place in Ghent, Belgium, just before the Ghent Film Festival, which runs from October 7th to 8th. This year, the event features 63 exciting film projects, including new works from renowned directors such as Lukas Dhont, Felix van Groeningen, and Teodora Ana Mihai.
Featured Film Projects
Some of the most anticipated projects include Lukas Dhont’s drama about the First World War, "Coward", which is set to start shooting in early September. Felix van Groeningen will also be presenting his relationship drama feature, "Leave Love In", written by Charlotte Vandermeersch. Additionally, Teodora Ana Mihai’s project, "Heysel 85", which tells the story of the tragedy in the football stadium, is expected to generate significant interest among participants.
Emerging Talent
The event also showcases emerging talent, including Melse van Coillie’s debut feature, "Torpor", set in the Arctic, and Anke Blondé’s "Dust", written by Angelo Tijssens. Other notable projects in development include Pieter van Hees’ "So We Dance", Anthony NTI and Chingiz Karibekov’s "Postcard", and Patrice Toye’s new feature, "The Task".
Established Filmmakers
Established talents such as Jan Verheyen, with "Team Spirit – NXT G3N", and Nathalie Teirlinck, with "Jonah Was She", will also be presenting their ongoing works. Furthermore, ascending filmmakers like Rand Abou Fakher, with "Sad Olive Times", and Damineh Close, with the sci-fi drama "Solipsis", will be showcasing their projects.
Family Films and Animation
The family films featured in the showcase include Daniel Lambo’s "Schoft The Thieves" and Frederike Migom’s work-in-progress, "Excuse Me". Animation projects such as RAF Wathion’s "Black Wolf" and Lunanime’s anthology film, "Banging Parade", winner of last year’s development prize at the MIA market, will also be presented.
Documentary Films
The documentary films on the agenda include Kristof Bilsen’s "The Apologet" and Münt Öztürk’s "To Hug You Again". Several recently completed films, including Cecilia Verheyden’s "Skiff" and Cato Kuster’s "Julian", will also be showcased.
Online Selection
Some titles will be displayed online, including Marjolijn Prins’ hybrid function documentary, "Fantastic", which had its world premiere at the Locarno Festival. These films offer a glimpse into the diverse and exciting range of projects being presented at Flanders Film Days.