NOW in its third year, the Greater August Town Film Festival (GATFFEST) is scheduled for June 25 to 28. “It is becoming a pivotal event for showcasing genre films from around the world. We have expanded our footprints, and we continue to grow. We are proud to have 72 films entered this year,” said Professor Ian Boxill, director of GATFFEST.

The festival opens in Kingston with a red carpet gala affair and film exploring the life of Amy Jacques Garvey, wife of national hero Marcus Garvey. Other activities include workshops and the screening of local and international short films along with an awards ceremony. There will also be a one-day film workshop and screening in Montego Bay. Boxhill said GATFFEST’s model is being sought after by the University of Cartagena in Colombia.

“We have agreed that we would assist them to develop a similar project,” he said. The professor said discussions include a student exchange programme between the two countries. “In a short span we have made significant strides, which has resulted in growing interest not only locally and regionally, but beyond.

There is a Brazilian film-maker who works in the favelas there. He contacted some Brazilian film-makers who submitted their work for the festival,” he said. GATFFEST was created as a platform to showcase the films produced by the residents of underserved communities participating in the UWI Community Film Project. Over 180 residents have graduated from the UWI Community Film Project since its inception