London: Upcoming Human Rights Watch Film Festival to celebrate people’s courage

Last updated on February 13th, 2024 at 05:44 am

The Human Rights Watch Film Festival, presented from March 14 to 22 at the Barbican and Rich Mix, includes in-depth Q&As and panel discussions involving filmmakers, film participants, activists and Human Rights Watch researchers following all screenings.

Currently in its 28th year, the festival programme presents a lineup of 10 award-winning, international feature-length films, in partnership with Barbican Cinema and Rich Mix and supported by players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Celebrate convergence of art and human rights

The majority of the festival is also set to stream across the UK and Ireland on the official website from March 18 to 24. Tickets went on sale to the public on February 8, featuring different ticketing options for audience members for whom cost could be a barrier.

This year’s edition celebrates the convergence of art and human rights. John Biaggi, director of the Human Rights Watch Film Festival, said the 10 films to be presented spotlight the energy and determination of young people opposing systems of power.

Insights into opening and closing night films

Mediha

Mediha, the opening night film made by documentary filmmaker Hasan Oswald is a heartfelt and intimate account of a teenage Yazidi girl recently returned from the captivity of the extremist armed group Islamic State, also called ISIS.

Summer Qamp

Summer Qamp, the closing night film made by Jen Markowitz, is an uplifting, funny and moving look at Camp fYrefly in the forests of Canada, where LGBT teens explore their authentic selves – far away from the political battle being waged against them.

Highlighting major human rights issues

Laura Chow, head of charities at People’s Postcode Lottery, said the Human Rights Watch Film Festival “inspires us to celebrate the courage of individuals who defend freedom and rights.” The opening and closing night events will be attended in person by the filmmakers.

The festival is expected to give marginalised people a platform to tell their stories to the global community, in addition to helping raise awareness on important human rights issues and encourage justice and equality. Keep an eye out on this page for further updates.