Minister: Criticisms against Fajr Int’l Film Festival show dynamism
Iran’s Culture and Islamic Guidance Minister Mohammad-Mehdi Esmaeili, stated that criticisms regarding the organization of the 42nd Fajr International Film Festival signify its dynamism.
He added that the ground is paved for those interested in filmmaking, emphasizing the diverse cinematic presence at the 42nd edition. He highlighted this as indicative of the event’s growing artistic significance, according to IRNA.
Esmaeili, during the second national conference on the Islamic Revolution and the future horizon of civilization, expressed that the modern Islamic civilization embodies governance, rationality, justice, spirituality connected to revelation, Sharia, and the rule of jurisprudence.
He credited the Islamic Republic for determining its path of power through a network of ancient civilizations, contrasting it with the Western world facing challenges and losing societal foundations.
He acknowledged the festival’s constructive criticism, discussions, and controversies, attributing them to its greatness.
The minister welcomed all discussions and criticisms, expressing gratitude for the warmth and contributions of cultural and artistic figures to the cinema.
He described the current phase as a new bloom for promoting content in the film industry, moving away from a negative cinematic atmosphere that primarily focused on violence and controversial communications.
Esmaeili said, “We are witnessing a new era in cinema, with a significant part of the festival productions dedicated to the great achievements of the Islamic Revolution, the people of Iran, and historical events such as the event of Karbala and martyrs.”
In response to concerns about some films not being fully prepared, Esmaeili explained that considering the workload of filmmakers to meet the festival’s deadlines is natural.
The misniter highlighted the importance of the Islamic system, contemporary Iranian civilization, and issues related to the growth of artificial intelligence, governance, opportunities, and threats in the online space in achieving a new Islamic civilization. The event also covered topics such as artificial intelligence, the modern order of civilization, the role of universities in Iran, and the structuring of contemporary Iranian civilization.