The MA Students of the Department of Communications at the University of Nicosia report on the Opening Day of Cyprus Film Days IFF and share their ways of seeing the festival!!

7:30, Zena Palace Cinema, Nicosia. As I walked in the space outside the movie theatre, I felt like I stepped into another world. I had no idea that what I saw had always been there beyond those steps in central Nicosia. The light background music brought me back to the present and I started processing the space around me.

People in small groups talking and drinking beer, enjoying the unpretentious opening of Cyprus Film Days. The lighting was dim, and you could feel the atmosphere very friendly, engaging and full of positive energy. And then it hit me: I was there too! I was going to be a part of the event. Suddenly, the music got louder and everything came to life!

The band that performed at the opening had hand crafted music instruments from recycled materials. I thought “Very creative! They couldn’t have a better group performing on a festival that promotes the art of cinematography in Cyprus.” The female singer’s voice still echoes in my ears: angelic. Continue reading →