The Bahamas International Film Festival
by Ayeola George
Source: www.lime-in.net

The 6th edition of the Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) took place December 10th -17th, showcasing 68 films from 26 countries, including 38 features (several which were world or international premieres and nearly all Bahamian premieres). The four competition categories at BIFF are Spirit of Freedom: Narrative; Spirit of Freedom: Documentary; New Visions; and Short Film. Sections included a Caribbean Sidebar, World Cinema Showcase, Hispanic Cinema Spotlight and special screenings.

Among the films screened at BIFF this year were SKIN, a drama starring Sophie Okonedo, BIFF’s Rising Star, from Director Anthony Fabian; Steven Soderbergh’s THE GIRLFRIEND EXPERIENCE starring Sasha Grey and Chris Santos; Joshua Goldin’s dark comedy WONDERFUL WORLD starring Matthew Broderick, the comedy BAGDHAD TEXAS from David H. Hickey, Mexican action/drama SIN NOMBRE and acclaimed documentaries SWEET CRUDE and HOUSE OF NUMBERS, to name a few.

Bahamian filmmaker Kareem Mortimer’s acclaimed indie drama CHILDREN OF GOD raised the curtain at this year’s festival as the official Opening Night Film. Lee Daniels’ critically lauded drama PRECIOUS starring Gabourey Sidibe, Mariah Carey, Lenny Kravitz, Monique, Sherri Shepherd and Paula Patton brought the week’s festivities to an end as the official Closing Night film on Dec. 17th.

The stars shone brighter than ever at this year’s BIFF. Festival Patron Sir Sean Connery was there to lend his full support throughout the week. Bahamian Director of Photography Gavin Mckinney was awarded the 1st Bahamian Tribute Award. Academy Award® nominee Sophie Okonedo (“Hotel Rwanda,” “Skin,”) was also feted with the Festival’s special Rising Star tribute. Festival goers enjoyed spotting a host of Hollywood talent in town to celebrate cinema in paradise!

About the Bahamas International Film Festival:

The Bahamas International Film Festival (BIFF) is a nonprofit organization committed to providing the local community and International festival goers with a diverse presentation of films from The Bahamas and around the world. In addition to showcasing quality films that might not otherwise be released theatrically worldwide, BIFF provides unique cultural experiences, educational programs, and forums for exploring the past, present & future of cinema. BIFF and its founder and executive director Leslie Vanderpool aims to raise the level of filmmaking, participation and education throughout The Bahamas and the world.