The New Zealand International Film Festival has recently appointed Paolo Bertolin as its new artistic director, marking a crucial move towards the festival's future viability. With the festival set to return in July and August, it will be stopping in just four locations across the country. This decision comes in light of the festival's ten-year strategy document, 'Te Ahua o te Whanau Marama,' released in November 2023. The document addresses the challenges posed by a global pandemic and the cost-of-living crisis, emphasizing the need for adaptation and ensuring the festival's longevity.
However, the recent departure of more than half of the festival's programmers in the past month adds an unexpected twist to the festival's plans. Notably, programmers such as Ant Timpson, Sandra Reid, Malcolm Turner, Nic Marshall, and Vicci Ho have resigned from their roles. Despite these departures, the festival's announcement fails to acknowledge this development.
Catherine Fitzgerald, the chair of the New Zealand Film Festival Trust, expressed her enthusiasm regarding Paolo Bertolin's appointment, considering it as the first crucial step in rebuilding the festival's future. The Trust remains committed to presenting a world-class festival and preserving the unique experience of cinema-going. Fitzgerald eagerly anticipates engaging new artistic vision and leadership to ensure the festival's excellence.
Paolo Bertolin brings a wealth of experience to his new role, having worked with various international film festivals and institutions. His impressive résumé includes involvement with Cannes' Directors' Fortnight, Locarno Open Doors, IFF Rotterdam, Doha Film Institute, Mumbai Film Festival, Beijing Film Festival, Cannes' Semaine de la critique, the Udine Far East Film Festival, and Nyon Visions du Réel. His expertise and background position him well to contribute to the revitalization of the New Zealand International Film Festival.
In 2024, the NZIFF will only screen in four cities across eight venues. The festival will commence in Wellington on July 31, followed by screenings in Auckland on August 7, Dunedin on August 14, and Christchurch on August 15. This condensed schedule demonstrates a strategic approach to consolidating resources and optimizing the festival's impact.
Despite the challenges posed by the global pandemic and the recent personnel changes, the New Zealand International Film Festival remains resolute in its commitment to delivering an exceptional cinematic experience. Audiences can eagerly anticipate gathering in some of the nation's beloved venues to immerse themselves in the best of film.
