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Looking into the use of AR/VR within film festivals

With the fast development of new Virtual reality technology, we have seen a rise in filmmakers taking advantage of this new avenue in which to make films. Beyond the Frame Festival in Japan, being one of the first VR/AR only film festivals, only beginning in 2021. 

Even festivals, such as the Sundance are getting involved in VR technology, adding their first VR film shown, “Spheres” in 2018. It’s safe to say, this technology will only keep getting more and more commonly used. 

VR technology is revolutionizing filmmaking, offering immersive storytelling experiences viewers can get lost in, a massive step up from the previous immersion technologies such as 3D. Filmmakers are able to utilize VR to transport audiences into the heart of narratives, allowing for unmatched engagement. This technology enables the creation of 360-degree environments, providing a new dimension for storytelling where viewers can explore and interact with the cinematic world.  

Directors experiment with VR to craft innovative narratives and enhance audience connection. The technology also finds applications in film pre-visualization, training, and documentary filmmaking, pushing the boundaries of traditional storytelling and transforming the film industry into an even more immersive and interactive realm. 

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Researching La Biennale di Venezia

The Venice Film Festival, known officially as the Venice International Film Festival (La Biennale di Venezia), Established in 1932 as part of the 18th Venice Biennale, is the oldest film festival in the world, holding a significant place in the history of cinema.   

The visionary behind the Venice Film Festival was Count Giuseppe Volpi di Misurata (1877-1947), a prominent figure in Italian politics and finance. Volpi, along with other key figures, including the Biennale's President, and Luciano De Feo, sought to create an event that would showcase the artistic achievements of cinema alongside other forms of contemporary art. 

The first edition of the festival was on August 6, 1932, at the Venice Casino. The screening venue was an open-air terrace overlooking the Adriatic Sea, providing a unique and picturesque setting for the cinematic presentations. Originally the festival's focus was on promoting Italian cinema, with the aim of elevating its status both nationally and internationally. 

This first festival featured films such as "Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde" by Rouben Mamoulian and "The White Hell of Pitz Palu" by Arnold Fanck and Georg Wilhelm Pabst. However, it was the screening of Alessandro Blasetti's "Palio" that marked the beginning of the festival's tradition of honoring outstanding films with awards. 

The Venice Film Festival continued in 1946 after being interrupted during World War II, establishing its standing as an essential forum for global film. The festival changed over the years, adding additional categories and honors including the Golden Lion, which goes to the finest film in the competition.  

The Venice Film Festival has pioneered the recognition of cinematic accomplishments and has hosted the world premieres of renowned directors and landmark films. Due to its historical roots and ongoing dedication to artistic excellence, it has established itself as a major player in the film industry and influenced the direction of international film festivals. Today, the Venice Film Festival continues to showcase a diverse range of films, welcoming filmmakers and cinephiles to experience the magic of cinema in the enchanting backdrop of Venice. 

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Researching the Cannes Film Festival

The Cannes Film Festival, established in 1946, holds a reputation as one of the most prestigious and influential film festivals in the world, known for its widely sought after best film prize, the Palme d'Or and glamorous red-carpet events, attracting a diverse array of filmmakers, actors, producers, and industry professionals from around the world. Hosted annually in the French Riviera town of Cannes, serving as a prominent showcase for international cinema, celebrating artistic excellence and fostering industry connections. 

Cannes is divided into various sections, each of which cater to a different aspect of the film industry. The Official Selection features films competing for the Palme d'Or, while Un Certain Regard highlights innovative and unconventional works. Directors' Fortnight and Critics' Week provide platforms for emerging talent, contributing to the festival's reputation as a launchpad for new voices in cinema. 

In addition to the competitive sections, Cannes hosts a myriad of screenings, masterclasses, and panel discussions, offering a rich tapestry of cinematic experiences. The Marché du Film, an integral part of the festival, serves as a marketplace for film professionals to buy, sell, and promote their projects. 

Beyond its role as a cinematic showcase, Cannes holds cultural significance as a trendsetter in fashion, a platform for social and political discourse, and a melting pot of global cinematic cultures. The festival's exclusivity, coupled with its commitment to artistic merit, has solidified Cannes as an essential event in the film industry calendar. 

While Cannes has faced occasional controversies and debates, its enduring legacy lies in its ability to shape the trajectory of cinema, elevate the status of filmmakers, and contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the art and business of filmmaking, Remaining a beacon of cinematic excellence, drawing attention to the power of storytelling on the world stage.