Interdisciplinary Film Art Fusion
The Wigan International Film Festival is dedicated to exploring the fusion of film with other art forms. Every year, the festival presents innovative projects that combine film with visual arts, dance, theater, or music. These specially curated exhibitions and performances offer audiences a unique experience, breaking the boundaries of film as an independent art form and blending it with other creative fields.
Local and Global Connections
The festival is not only a platform for global cinema but also places significant emphasis on local culture and storytelling. Each year, the festival hosts a special section dedicated to films that reflect the life, history, and culture of Wigan and its surrounding areas. This section supports local filmmakers while offering global audiences a window into local culture.
“Secret Screenings”
A unique feature of the festival is the "Secret Screening" segment, where films are shown without revealing the title or director in advance. Instead, audiences are given a brief teaser or trailer, and the excitement comes from guessing the film’s content. This element of mystery adds an exciting and unique layer to the viewing experience, providing a platform for experimental and avant-garde films free from excessive labeling.
Films for Social Action
The festival places a strong focus on films that act as tools for social change. Each year, a dedicated "Film and Social Action" section highlights films that address social issues and drive societal change. These screenings are often followed by community events or discussions that encourage audiences to engage with the topics presented and participate in actions aimed at solving related social problems, bridging cinema with social responsibility.
In-Depth Dialogues and Closed-Door Roundtable Discussions
In addition to the regular Q&A sessions, the festival hosts in-depth dialogues and closed-door roundtable discussions with filmmakers, directors, screenwriters, and scholars. These private discussions are typically not open to the public and are reserved for invited industry professionals and academics. Topics often include technical filmmaking challenges, social and political discussions, and the future of cinema. These intimate conversations are among the most intellectually stimulating and thought-provoking parts of the festival.
Filmmaker Lounge and Small-Scale Screenings
The festival provides a unique space for filmmakers and industry professionals to connect — the "Filmmaker Lounge." In this relaxed setting, filmmakers can exchange creative ideas and experiences. Additionally, the festival organizes small, informal screenings that are not part of the official program. These gatherings are more focused on providing a platform for free exchange of ideas and fostering learning among filmmakers and industry insiders.
