Editor

The return of the FIFOG in the movie theatres was a great success, the days of projection were magical and full of emotions. In spite of the draconian sanitary measures (compulsory mask, disinfection of the room after each screening, distance between people, regular disinfection of hands and equipment, etc.), the public was massively present in the cinema rooms.

Indeed, under the sign of “Resistance ... the feminine way”, the screenings that took place on 25, 26 and 27 September 2020 in several locations (Cinémas du Grütli, Fonction Cinéma and the Crowned Eagle) attracted a large festival audience.

The ten of films presented were accompanied by a twinty guests who discussed at length with the spectators about the content and aesthetic of the films. At the end, the participating artists expressed their relief to finally experience the charm of the movie theatres after a long absence. The audience, for its part, also expressed its pleasure to experience the return of the FIFOG in theaters in a festive atmosphere and having the opportunity to exchange with the festival guests.

The satisfaction was shared by all: public, organizers, partners and guests. All of them agreed to meet again in spring 2021 for a more serene 16th edition.

As a reminder, due to the COVID-19 health crisis, the FIFOG 2020 has adapted and offered its public a program in several phases spread over time.

The online version of the festival took place from 8 to 14 June 2020. 

This version drew sparkling stars on the canvas: a bouquet of films, a painting and photo exhibition, and an oriental dance class. A dish with feminine and oriental spices was enjoyed delicately and without moderation:

• The competition of short films lined up 14 productions from 14 countries.
• The FIFOG innovated by offering its audience the chance to see or watch again fourteen of the best short films from previous editions, from 14 countries. The public had the opportunity to view them and vote for the 2020 Audience Award.
• For children: 6 films from 6 countries. Operation set up in collaboration with the Association "Rencontres et Cultures du Monde Arabe" (RCMA) and the "Enseignement de l’Arabe pour Enfants" (ELAPE).
• The traditional art exhibition took place this year on the net. The FIFOG welcomed two artists: the Franco-Algerian painter Akila Dahache and the Algerian photographer Ahmed Ait Issad.
• The FIFOG also offered, in collaboration with the "Festival International de Danses Folkloriques de Suisse" (Esquisse d'Orient), an online introductory course to oriental dances.

The FIFOG warmly thanks all the people who support it as well as all its partners who accompanied it during this long and extraordinary edition.