If it weren’t for the repressions in the country, Andro Chichinadze, a prisoner of conscience, would now be at the highest peak of the continent as the main character of a documentary mini-series and would tell us about the importance of people’s mental health as part of this filming. “Seven Peaks: The Path of Transformation” – this project of the series is now being presented by the Georgian Film Institute at the Berlin International Film Festival without the main character, without Andro. Filming of the first episode of this documentary was scheduled as early as January, but before that, Andro was arrested.
For the second year now, the Georgian Film Institute will present Georgian stand at the Berlinale and the European Fair. The Film Institute was once again given a chance to voice the developments in Georgia and the needs of independent Georgian cinema at one of the most prestigious global events in the film industry thanks to the efforts of many people, the donation of members and a share of the support of the Foundation.
Today, more than 450 Georgian filmmakers are boycotting the National Film Center – the only public structure that finances Georgian film production. In the light of this circumstance, deepening business
relations with international partners for the Georgian Film Institute, seeking alternative opportunities for cooperation and project planning are especially important.
Therefore, within the framework of the Berlin International Film Festival, meetings are held with representatives of international film festivals, European film foundations, production companies, and sales agents, who have the opportunity to watch Georgian feature and documentary films at various stages of production.
The goal of organizing the Georgian stand at the Berlinale is to increase the trust of international professionals in the field at the Film Institute, which will outline new and interesting opportunities for cooperation. As a result, the Film Institute will be able to raise awareness of the current events in Georgia, bolster independent Georgian cinema more, protect the interests of film industry professionals, and popularize the Georgian cinematograph.
