The 12th Seoul International Children’s Film Festival (SICFF) kicks off on September 5 and runs through September 10, 2024, at Lotte Cinema Eunpyeong in Gupabal and the first parking lot of Bukhansan National Park. The festival, sponsored by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, Eunpyeong District, and the Seoul Metropolitan Office of Education, offers a variety of programs for audiences of all ages.
Opening Ceremony and Premiere
On September 5 at 7 PM, the opening ceremony will take place at Lotte Cinema Eunpyeong. The ceremony will include a screening of the opening film, “Ras and the Button of Laughter,” a Norwegian film that follows Amanda, a young girl who befriends Lars, a new student with Down syndrome. The film explores themes of friendship and acceptance and has won several awards, including the European Children’s Film Association Best Film Award. This screening marks the film’s Asian premiere.
Record-Breaking Participation
This year’s festival has received a record-breaking 3,338 submissions from 124 countries. The selection committee chose 128 films from 34 countries for the final lineup. The SICFF features various competition categories, including International Feature, International Short, Animation, and Children’s Competition. The Children’s Competition category will showcase ten films directed by young filmmakers, highlighting the creativity and talent of the next generation.
New and Exciting Non-Competitive Sections
The festival introduces new non-competitive sections, such as “Blue; Our School,” which presents fresh perspectives on education, and “Giant’s Little Footprints,” showcasing imaginative works by children. Other sections include “Adults, Please,” “Dodam Dodam Theater” for toddlers, and “Horizons,” which emphasizes the value of coexistence. These sections offer a broad range of films exploring various themes related to children.
Closing Ceremony and Awards
The closing ceremony will occur on September 10 at 5:30 PM at the first parking lot of Bukhansan National Park. The event will feature a red carpet for filmmakers, an awards ceremony, and a special closing performance. Executive Director Kim Han-ki noted that each film offers a unique perspective on the importance of children’s cinema, encouraging audiences to reflect, empathize, and enjoy. Organizing Committee Chairperson Kim Mi-kyung invited families to participate in the festival’s diverse programs.
For more information about the films and events, visit the official SICFF website. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore the world of children’s cinema and experience the joy of storytelling through the eyes of young filmmakers.
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