kinopavasaris's blog

Vilnius International Film Festival (Vilnius IFF) "Kino pavasaris" is the biggest and most important cinema event in Lithuania. Festival was established in 1995 and now that fifteen years have passed it earned its reputation because it is showing high quality newest films that are carefully picked out of highly rated festivals and has been awarded the prizes by both the audience and film critics. Serious discussions, widely respected Lithuanian and international filmmakers, events for industry guests, social and educational projects is essential part of the festival, as well as cheerful parties.

The partnership with European Union’s MEDIA program, membership of CICAE organization is a testimony of the quality and professionalism of Vilnius IFF. Throughout the fifteen years of existence festival has managed not only to gather a number of dedicated fans but also it has been cooperating with a great number of international film festivals, film companies, independent film producers and foreign embassies.

In 2009 Vilnius IFF for the first time presented the competition programme “New Europe – New Names” with a solid international Jury. Only the best debut films from East and Central Europe were presented for “The Best film” award. It will become an annual competition since it has been received like a small diamond by audience and mass media.

In 2011 already second annual Central and Eastern European International Film Festivals Forum will be held. The main aim of this event is to establish and maintain a close partnership with main Central and Eastern European international film festivals.

Every year Vilnius IFF presents more than 100 films which are divided into a number of programs. In 2005 Vilnius IFF has been visited by a breaking number of viewers which reached a 40 per cent increase since 2004 (in 2004 over 28,000 viewers and in 2005 over 41,000). Since then the festival is witnessing an increase in attendance, which was over 54,000 in 2010.

Vilnius IFF is a perfect opportunity not only to see great films but also to meet in person with cinema masters and actors. The festival is proud to have received guests such as Emir Kusturica, Mike Leigh, Leos Carax, Javor Gardev, Attila Galambos and actors like Hana Schygulla, Ian Somerhalder, Dexter Fletcher, Ion Sapdaru, Teador Corban, Mircea Andreescu and others.

The festival is not only a fun activity but it is also a social responsible organization that offers educational programs as well, such as special educational programs for students (“Cinema Book” and “Kino Pavasaris in Your University”), also special projects to increase awareness of and discussions concerning global warming issues, all kinds of exhibitions, master classes for upcoming professionals and young generation filmmakers.

Festival’s mission

• The mission of Vilnius IFF is to provide the viewers with the opportunity to see the latest, already accredited independent films from all around the world.

• To create the unforgettable “celebration of cinema” atmosphere in Vilnius city.

• To inform, inspire and educate young audience.

Festival’s vision

• To get the international recognition as one of the leading film festivals in New Europe region;

• To introduce the newest debut films from New Europe region in competition program;

• To present filmmakers from all around the world.