The annual African film festival returns to the Filmhouse with features, documentaries and shorts this year with a focus on Africa in the modern, globalised world.
AiM will be seeking to discover and explore - through film and other popular culture manifestations - how modernity manifests in African cultures.
In its early release calling for entries AiM says:
"We regard “modern” not as belonging solely to the “West”, and through the festival we want to emphasise Africa’s important role in the modern world - we want to unearth the urban, the new, the provocative, the innovative and experimental. As such, the festival will primarily deal with manifestations of African cultures in the contemporary era, moving away from the stereotypical view of the continent locked in ancient traditions and superstition.
AiM will celebrate African creativity and the rich diversity of African cultures in their contemporary manifestations through showcasing films covering themes such as:
- the role of African Diaspora
- Africa's current political and economical position(s)
- how the digital revolution is affecting the continent
- modern arts expressions in African cultures (dance, fashion, conceptual art)
- how modern life has affected African traditions
The festival includes a Short Film Competition and an AcademicSymposium on African Popular Culture.
Film screenings will be accompanied by a wide range of complementary events such as directors’ Q&As and masterclasses, workshops, discussions, music performances and an arts exhibition.