The 2021 Asian World Film Festival unveiled its “Window to Africa” and “HFPA Scholarship Screenings” programs, the latter developed in collaboration with the Hollywood Foreign Press Association. “Windows to Africa” will showcase films from Malawi, Namibia, and Nigeria, as well as a world premiere, and a two-day, outdoor cultural event: Regal Africa Afro-Fest.
The HPFA Scholarship Screenings will feature 13 finalists from the organization’s short film competition, culminating in a ceremony honouring the winning film with a cash prize of US$5000. Both rounds of screenings will be held at the Landmark Theatres on West Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles. In addition, the Regal Africa Afro-Fest will take place in downtown Culver City.
“We are thrilled to support African film and culture for a second year,” stated AWFF executive director Georges N. Chamchoun. “In addition, the HFPA continues to play an essential role in the film community, and our aim as a global festival fit with their efforts to promote emerging filmmakers.”
The HFPA Short Film Program is curated by AITYSH Foundation, Kyrgyzstan & CSI Countries; CBN, Vietnamese Network TV; FILAM Creative, Filipino-American entertainment community; Korean Cultural Center, Los Angeles; MoRedii, China and Asian-American; Salvatore Leocata, North and West African; Olukayode Olubunmi, West Africa; Mohammed Rouda, Middle East and Africa; Naoyuki Ikeda, Los Angeles Japanese Film Festival; Haris Sulong, Malaysia; and Sam Lahoud, Beirut Film Society, Middle East.
The AWFF, currently in its seventh year, will take place at the Landmark Theatres on West Pico Boulevard in Los Angeles from November 1 to 11, 2021.
