As 2024 winds down, Türkiye becomes the centre stage for a series of unique film festivals, each celebrating distinctive themes and offering a memorable cinematic experience. Türkiye’s year-end film festivals showcase the impact of artificial intelligence on cinema, spotlight pressing human rights issues, and celebrate the creativity of emerging talents. Here’s what you need to know about the final film festivals of 2024.

Dates: December 9-13, 2024
Location: Istanbul Gelişim University

Making its debut this year, the Türkiye Artificial Intelligence Film Festival (T-AIFF) aims to shape the future of cinema by spotlighting innovative AI-powered films. With 1105 submissions from 94 countries, the festival features 27 national and 34 international finalists. Alongside screenings, the event includes panels and workshops, such as “Artificial Intelligence and the Turkish Film Industry,” exploring how AI can transform local filmmaking.

Dates: December 13-19, 2024
Location: Beyoğlu Cinema

Organized by the Silk Road Culture, Art, and Education Foundation in collaboration with SETEM, this festival celebrates cultural diversity along the historical Silk Road. With films from countries like Türkiye, China, and Italy, the competition awards a “Brotherhood Prize.” Highlights include masterclasses, workshops, and an awards ceremony at Şişli Nazım Hikmet Cultural Center.

Dates: December 13-17, 2024
Location: Various venues in Istanbul

Focusing on the “family” theme, this festival showcases award-winning local and international films. Highlights include “Meryem,” “Sunday,” and children’s films like “Captain Pengu.” With its diverse screenings and workshops, the festival appeals to audiences of all ages and concludes with an awards ceremony at Dr. Kadir Topbaş Culture and Arts Center.

Dates: December 2-7, 2024
Location: Nihat Zeybekci Congress and Culture Center

This festival, marking its inaugural year, features 43 short films and aims to connect the community with cinema’s richness. Free screenings include complimentary popcorn and beverages. The festival concludes with an award night, recognizing excellence in categories like Best Film, Best Director, and Lifetime Achievement.

Dates: December 14-18, 2024
Locations: Istanbul and Diyarbakır

This year, the festival centres on “animal rights” while continuing its tradition of addressing broader human rights issues. With 50 films, forums, and discussions, the event raises awareness of social and ecological challenges, offering audiences the chance to engage with filmmakers through Q&A sessions.

Dates: December 12, 2024
Location: Hasan Kalyoncu University

This festival brings together student filmmakers from 103 countries, with 1555 submissions this year. It serves as a platform for young talent to connect, learn, and showcase their work. The event culminates with a gala night featuring awards for outstanding films in various categories.

Türkiye’s year-end film festivals provide a diverse array of cinematic experiences. If you’re intrigued by AI, passionate about human rights, or eager to discover fresh talent, these events offer something for everyone. Don’t miss this opportunity to wrap up 2024 with the charm of cinema.

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