MISSION STATEMENT

The Vientianale provides the opportunity for filmmakers to offer impressions, insights and experiences of society and environment from a Lao perspective. This event will provide a vehicle for Lao filmmakers to promote their own film identity and culture. In due course, such an event may foster the development of the Lao film industry to have its own voice, and produce their own films through their own eyes.

The education of the Lao people, especially the youth, is paramount to the development of film culture within the country. The event can provide a platform to increase the exposure, diversity and style of local and international films to the general public. Furthermore, as shown by the 1st Vientianale, the event allowed for filmmakers to openly discuss, establish networks and create potential collaborations. Through this learning process of sharing ideas, it could lead to increased independent creativity, and media competency in a competitive market.

In addition, the strength of the Vientianale also lies within the recognition of film and filmmakers from other countries. Given the richness of well-established film cultures in some of Laos’ neighbours, the 2nd Vientianale is looking to broaden the scope of the programme to include more films from these countries. The film industry in South East Asia is gaining greater recognition with the latest success story being the prestigious Cannes Film festival’s Palme d’Or being awarded to Thailand’s Apichatpong Weerasethakul for his film ‘Uncle Boonmee’. Moreover, international exposure will also provide an opportunity to show visitors the potential of Laos’ film industry.

The long-term sustainability for such a venture cannot only be achieved through the passion of a few people who have skills and enthusiasm in film and event management. The key to any venture also aims to develop capacity through the transfer of knowledge and skills to Lao people with a strong commitment to the industry. Henceforth, Lao participation and eventual ownership of such an event will only strengthen the film sector in the future.

Objectives of the Vientianale

• To celebrate Lao and internationally produced films to a local and international audience.

• To increase and promote the profiles of Lao filmmakers to a local and international audience.

• To introduce and educate a local and international audience about Lao and international film culture.

• To contribute to the development of Lao film identity and film culture.

• To assist in the development of Lao film event management.

Proudly supported by:

In association with:

Powered by: - Created by Irwin - in association with Bluegrass Design Group.