29/02/2024 - The festival enhances its programme with hubs to foster networking, partnerships and learning, while the Industry Days offer a diverse schedule of events for professionals

The 14th edition of the Luxembourg City Film Festival (LuxFilmFest, 29 February-10 March) kicks off today, promising an exhilarating blend of film screenings, master classes, workshops and networking opportunities (see the news and the interview with managing director Gladys Lazareff). This year, alongside its established main pillars, LUXFILMLAB and LUXFILMFEST CAMPUS, LuxFilmFest is introducing two new segments: LUXFILMFEST CLUB, a hub to foster exchanges and partnerships; and LUXFILMFEST FABRIC, a space dedicated to learning and exceptional encounters. These additions underscore the festival's commitment to fostering collaboration, learning and meaningful interactions within the film community.

LUXFILMFEST FABRIC offers an immersive experience in filmmaking through master classes, workshops and retrospectives. Renowned filmmakers Gaspar Noé and Wang Bing are the guests of honour this year. Noé, known for bold films like Irréversible and Enter the Void [+see also:
film review
trailer
film profile], leads a master class on 9 March, accompanied by a retrospective of his feature films. Similarly, Bing, celebrated for Youth (Spring) [+see also:
film review
trailer
film profile], which made waves in the official competition at the Cannes Film Festival and was co-produced by Luxembourg-based Les Films Fauves, will share some career insights on 2 March, complemented by a curated retrospective. LuxFilmFest also welcomes Viggo Mortensen, honouring him on 9 March with a tribute film and a trophy. Mortensen will present his latest movie, The Dead Don’t Hurt [+see also:
film review
interview: Viggo Mortensen
film profile], alongside Luxembourgish lead actress Vicky Krieps.

As part of the programme, several enriching events have been scheduled. On 1 March, the AI&ART master class presents a discussion on video games, artificial intelligence and art, featuring developer and 3D artist Max Kreis, along with Christoph Schommer, Professor of AI at the University of Luxembourg. The next day, the conference “The Evolution of the Audiovisual Professions” explores industry dynamics and collaborations with festival programmers and sales agents. Animation enthusiasts can enjoy a behind-the-scenes look at Kensuke’s Kingdom [+see also:
trailer
film profile] with directors Neil Boyle and Kirk Hendry, courtesy of Mélusine Productions. LUXFILMFEST FABRIC also includes a discussion on the role of women in film criticism led by Inge Coolsaet, and a scriptwriting and acting master class with Tracy Dawson and Vicky Krieps on 10 March.

During the Industry Days, members of Europa Film Festivals and Europa International will come together to tackle significant industry challenges. A standout feature is the “3'52'' max Upcoming Titles” pitching sessions, where producers and directors will present projects at various stages of production to industry representatives, offering a glimpse into Luxembourg's film landscape. Each participant has precisely three minutes and 52 seconds – an homage to the grand duchy's telephone code – to pitch their project. The sessions are supported by Creative Europe – MEDIA Desk Luxembourg.

Additionally, two workshops on cultural appropriation, conducted by sociologist Eric Fassin in collaboration with the Luxembourg National Audiovisual Centre, delve into the complexities of this issue. Meanwhile, the panel "The Environmental Impact of Films" explores sustainability concerns, featuring experts from the Luxembourg National Audiovisual Centre, the Luxembourg Film Fund, the European Commission and various festival networks, moderated by Leslie Vuchot from The Festival Agency.

The aim of LUXFILMFEST CLUB is to embrace audiences and the future of cinema. It brings together seasoned filmmakers and emerging talents in various formats. The programme kicks off with THE PARTY on 1 March, providing a platform for industry players to network and exchange ideas amidst dynamic DJ sets. On 6 March, Lost Weekend showcases short films created during a 48-hour challenge, followed by a prize-giving ceremony. OPENSCREEN on 7 March offers aspiring filmmakers a platform for creative expression without any thematic constraints. Luxembourg Music Video Night on 8 March invites bands, artists and filmmakers to submit their music videos for screening during the festival. Meet the Filmmakers at the Gudde Wëllen venue follows, fostering connections between local artists, filmmakers and industry professionals on 8 March. Finally, the festival concludes with the Mesa Verde Closing Party on 9 March, an exclusive event for festival pass holders and accredited individuals, featuring electrifying performances by Pierre Cocq-Amann and DJ Gustavo Morales, aka Ghost.