RIFF | Reykjavík International Film Festival

🎬Calling All Icelandic Film Pros & Students! 🎬 Are you a film industry professional or student aged 18-30 and living in Iceland? Here’s your chance to shine! 🌟 Represent Iceland on the international SMART7 jury at the Thessaloniki Film Festival in Greece this November! RIFF is looking for one dedicated Iceland-based representative to join a prestigious jury with participants from seven European countries. 🌍 Vote for the best film in the SMART7 category and make your voice heard! ✨ What’s Included? ✈️ Free flight to Greece 🎟️ Festival access 🏨 Three-night hotel stay Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to enhance your career and network with industry leaders! Apply now through the link in the comments! 🚀

Celebrating Icelandic Literature and Film at RIFF 2024 📚❤️🎬 📙 We are thrilled to highlight the remarkable contributions of Icelandic literature to the film industry at this year's Reykjavik International Film Festival - RIFF. 📚 Icelanders are proud of their rich literary heritage, with an impressive statistic to back it up: Iceland publishes around 1,500 books annually, and with a population of 390,000, this means there are about five books published per 1,000 residents each year. 📽 One of our board members, the acclaimed Icelandic director Baltasar Kormákur, recently shared insights about his latest film "Touch" in an exclusive interview with Deadline. 🏆 Currently the number one film in Iceland, "Touch" is an adaptation of a book by Icelandic author Ólafur Jóhann Ólafsson that topped the Icelandic bestselling lists in 2020 and was nominated for the Icelandic Literary Award the following year. ⛰ In the interview, Baltasar discusses the film's Italian premiere, the inspiration behind the story, and the evolving landscape of cinema. 🌟 We're excited to announce that Baltasar's film is not the only book adaptation from an Icelandic novel captivating movie-goers this year. 📢 RIFF will host the Icelandic premiere of a new film adaptation from a work by one of Iceland's most beloved authors, followed by an exciting seminar on the subject of book adaptations. ❓ Can you guess which one it is? ❓ Join us at RIFF to celebrate the fusion of Icelandic literature and film, and experience the powerful stories that define our culture. 🔗 Read the full interview:

📽 Háskólabíó is the home of RIFF 2024 📽 In this article we explore the rich history of Háskólabíó cinema, a cornerstone of Reykjavík's cultural landscape since its opening in 1961. Originally conceived during Iceland's 1940s cultural renaissance, this iconic venue has hosted university lectures, concerts, and international films, becoming a beloved hub for film enthusiasts and scholars. Despite changes and modernization, Háskólabíó continues to honor its heritage while embracing new opportunities. Join us at the Reykjavík International Film Festival - RIFF, to experience its magic. 🌟

🎞 🐧 The Iconic RIFF Puffin! 🐧 📽 The puffin isn't just an award; it's the beloved mascot of our festival. These charming birds are a symbol of Iceland's rich wildlife and cultural heritage. Puffins are known for their colorful beaks and sociable nature, making them a fitting emblem for a festival that brings together so many creative and vibrant minds. 🌋 Puffins in Iceland 🐧 Iceland is home to one of the world's largest puffin populations, with over 8-10 million puffins residing here during the breeding season. These birds are an integral part of our natural landscape, often spotted along coastal cliffs and islands. The Westman Islands, in particular (Vestmannaeyjar in Icelandic), are famous for their puffin colonies, where the birds hold a special place in the local culture. Puffin sightings have become a cherished activity for both locals and tourists. ❤️ RIFF's mascot, the puffin, embodies the spirit of our festival – unique, colorful, and full of life. As we celebrate creative excellence, we also celebrate the incredible natural beauty and cultural richness of Iceland. We look forward to welcoming more brilliant minds and celebrating even more milestones in the years to come. 👉 Follow us for more updates and don’t forget to visit our website for the latest news and ticket information: www.riff.is 💻 Have you ever seen a puffin in real life? 🏸

🎥 Throwback: Celebrating Creative Excellence: Mads Mikkelsen at RIFF 2018 🎬 In 2018, the talented Danish actor Mads Mikkelsen received the Creative Excellence Award at RIFF. Mads Mikkelsen is a Danish actor renowned for his versatile performances both in Europe and Hollywood. He began his career with the 1996 success movie "Pusher" and quickly became one of Denmark's leading actors, starring in hits like "Flickering Lights" (2000) and the Emmy-winning police series "Rejseholdet" (2000). Mikkelsen gained international acclaim for his role as Le Chiffre in the James Bond film "Casino Royale" (2006), cementing his status as a Hollywood star. He further showcased his talent in films like "The Hunt" (2012), "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story" (2016), and "Doctor Strange" (2016). His portrayal of Dr. Hannibal Lecter in the NBC series "Hannibal" (2013-2015) received critical acclaim and a dedicated fan following, solidifying Mikkelsen's reputation as one of the most compelling actors of his generation. 🌟 What a guy! What is your favorite film starring Mads Mikkelsen?

🎬 Exciting news about our Industry days! 🎬 As we gear up for another fantastic edition of the Reykjavík International Film Festival, we want to remind you to check out our website and secure your accreditation in advance! 🎟️ Buy here: https://lnkd.in/dFmaK7Q5 Don't miss out on the cinematic experiences and exclusive events we've lined up for you. 🌟 Save the Dates: RIFF Industry Days 🌟 This year's Industry Days will be held from September 28th to October 1st and promise to be even more inspiring and insightful. Join us for masterclasses, panel discussions, and networking opportunities with leading professionals from the film industry. 📢 Meet the Producer: Birna Paulina Einarsdottir We're proud to have Birna Paulina Einarsdottir as the producer of Industry Days. Birna has an impressive portfolio, including notable productions such as "Interstellar," "Rogue One: A Star Wars Story," "Oblivion," "Clark," and many more. Her extensive experience and global network ensure an exceptional program for all attendees. 🌟 Previous Speakers and Former Honorary Guests 🌟 In previous years, we've been honored to host incredible speakers and guests such as Susanne Bier, Mads Mikkelsen, Darren Aronofsky, Costa-Gavras, Béla Tarr, and Milos Forman. Their participation has enriched our festival, and we look forward to continuing this tradition of excellence. 👉 Visit our website https://lnkd.in/eecSX466 for more information! We can't wait to welcome you to another unforgettable festival. 💬 We Want to Hear from You! 💬 What do you want to know about our Industry Days? Let us know in the comments!

🎥The Evolution of Cinema Operations in Iceland 🎥 The European Audiovisual Observatory highlights that the number of cinema screens has remained relatively stable despite the COVID-19 pandemic. That's great. However, Iceland's cinema landscape tells a different story, reflecting broader global trends and local challenges. 📽️Iceland’s Cinema Landscape 📽️ Icelandic cinema has seen a significant decline in operational cinemas over the past decades. As of 2024, there are only 9 cinemas operating across the country (of 400.000 inhabitants). These include: 🏙 Reykjavik: Sambíóin Egilshöll, Sambíóin Álfabakki, Sambíóin Kringlan, and Bíó Paradís (arthouse cinema). 🌲 Outside Reykjavik: Sambíóin Akureyri, Sambíóin Keflavík, Bíóhúsið Selfossi, Bíóhöllin Akranesi, and Herðubíó in Seyðisfjörður. 🎬Decline in Rural Cinemas🎬 Historically, Iceland had numerous cinemas providing cultural and social hubs for communities. However, digital streaming, changing entertainment preferences, and economic challenges have hit hard. A 2023 article in Morgunblaðið noted, "The rise of streaming services has caused a substantial decline in cinema attendance, forcing many small-town cinemas to shut down." This trend is seen globally, with a 30% drop in European cinema attendance from 2010 to 2020. 🎟️Importance of Cinemas🎟️ Despite these challenges, cinemas continue to play a vital role. The British Film Institute (BFI) emphasizes that "cinemas are not just places to watch films; they are community hubs fostering social interaction and cultural engagement." This is especially true in Iceland, where rural cinemas are essential cultural venues. 🚌Innovative Solutions🚌 To combat the decline, some Icelandic cinemas have embraced innovation. The UngRIFF cinema bus project brings cinematic experiences to underserved areas, allowing children and communities in remote locations to enjoy films. 💰 Economic Impact 💰 Globally, cinemas contribute to local economies by creating jobs, supporting businesses, and fostering tourism. Research by USC Annenberg underscores these contributions. This impact is crucial for Iceland, where tourism is a significant economic driver. 🎉Bottom line 🎉 While Iceland's cinema industry faces challenges, its societal role remains crucial. By embracing innovation and emphasizing the cultural, social, and educational value of cinemas, we can revitalize the industry. Supporting the unique contributions of cinemas ensures they continue to thrive in the digital age. Do you ever worry about the lack of diversity in your cinematic community? Sources: "Impact of Streaming Services on Cinema Attendance." Morgunblaðið, 2023. "European Cinema Attendance Trends." European Audiovisual Observatory, 2020. "The Role of Cinemas in Community Life." British Film Institute (BFI). "Economic and Social Contributions of Cinemas." USC Annenberg School for Communication and Journalism.

🎬 RIFF's Commitment to Excellence: Key Takeaways from the Film Festival Community 🌟 Our recent deep dive into the film festival community on Reddit highlighted what makes a festival truly stand out. Top takeaways include: 1. 🤝 Strong Communication: Engaging with filmmakers personally. 2. 📅 Short, Focused Dates: Better attendance and community feel. 3. 👋 Engaged Audience: Ensuring audiences are present and interactive. 4. 🏘 Networking Spaces: Filmmaker lounges for meaningful connections. 5. 👞 Convenience: Walkable venues and local food 🥗 options. These insights reinforce RIFF's dedication to creating an exceptional festival experience. Do you agree? Is there anything you would like to add to the list? Let's keep small festivals thriving! #RIFF #FilmFestival #CulturalEvents #CommunityEngagement Join the discussion on Reddit via the link below:

📽️ The Power of Film: Captivating Minds and Disrupting Goals 🎬 Cinema is so much more than entertainment, it can literally change how we think, and we do have the science to back it up! 🔬 At the Reykjavik International Film Festival, we celebrate the profound impact of cinema on our culture and consciousness. A recent study published in PLOS ONE highlights just how powerful narrative films can be in capturing attention and influencing behavior. 🔍 Key Findings: - The study used Alfred Hitchcock’s gripping short film, “Bang! You’re Dead!” to test how different narrative structures affect audience engagement. - Participants who watched the film with scenes presented in a non-sequential order were more attentive to specific cues, showing a higher recall of critical moments compared to those who watched it in its original sequence. 💡 Implications for Cinema: - This research underscores the unique ability of films to shape our cognitive processes and focus. - It reveals the power of storytelling in creating memorable experiences and engaging viewers on a deeper level. 🎥 Why It Matters: - Films are not just entertainment; they are powerful cultural tools that influence how we perceive the world and ourselves. - The way stories are told in films can enhance our cognitive abilities and attention, making cinema an essential part of cultural and intellectual growth. Join us at RIFF as we explore the transformative power of film and its role in shaping our cultural landscape. Let’s celebrate the art of storytelling and its profound impact on our lives! 👉 Read the full study here: (https://lnkd.in/egS-BAHp) #RIFF #FilmFestival #Cinema #FilmStudies #CulturalImpact #Storytelling #Hitchcock #FilmResearch #AttentionAndMemory #CognitiveScience

🌋✨ Discover the Magic of Iceland at RIFF 2024! 🌋✨ Why is Iceland the ultimate destination right now? Here's why you should pack your bags and join us for the Reykjavík International Film Festival - RIFF, happening September 26th to October 6th 2024: Land of Fire and Ice: ❄️🔥 Experience the breathtaking Northern lights, majestic glaciers, awe-inspiring volcanic eruptions, expansive lava fields, and stunning black sand beaches. Iceland offers a unique blend of natural wonders that are simply irresistible. Safe and Fun to Visit: 🛡️🎉 Despite recent volcanic eruptions on the Reykjanes Peninsula, Reykjavik's communities and RIFF operations remain unaffected. Flight services continue smoothly, ensuring your journey is hassle-free. In fact, witnessing these natural spectacles can be an incredible addition to your adventure, showcasing the harmonious coexistence of humans and nature. Explore Stunning Nature: 🌿🌊 Travelers and industry professionals attending RIFF can delve into Iceland’s spectacular landscapes, capturing the essence of this vibrant land. Imagine experiencing the dynamic relationship between Iceland's geological wonders and its people. Perfect for Culturally Minded Travelers and Families: 🎥👨👩👧👦 RIFF is a premier destination for those who cherish cultural experiences. With our consistent annual schedule and city-based location, it’s also ideal for families and planners. Enjoy special events like YouthRIFF, designed specifically for children and families, making it a memorable trip for all ages. Join Us at RIFF 2024! 🎉📽️ Be part of Iceland’s finest filmmaking, attend fantastic parties, network with industry professionals, and immerse yourself in a cultural extravaganza. ✨ Your Icelandic adventure awaits! Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of RIFF and the wonders of Iceland. ✨ #RIFF2024 #VisitIceland #FilmFestival #TravelSafe #ExploreNature #CulturalTravel #FamilyDestination #NorthernLights #VolcanicEruptions #IcelandicAdventure