Isfahan Embraces Permanent Role as Host of Intl. Film Fest. for Children and Youth

Iran (IMNA) - In a detailed interview with Ali Salehi, head of the Cultural, Social, and Sports Commission of Isfahan City Council, the strategic significance and cultural ambitions of this event were explored.

For the Isfahan City Council, the festival holds a central place in cultural policy. Salehi emphasized that the city’s identity is deeply tied to its rich historical and cultural heritage, and events like this festival are essential for reinforcing and promoting that identity. He described the festival as a platform not only for showcasing cinematic works by young filmmakers but also for fostering professional connections across generations in the film industry. Alongside other major cultural events such as the “Khandoostan” Theatre Festival and the international “Popak” Painting Competition, the children’s film festival contributes to a vibrant, family-oriented cultural ecosystem in Isfahan.

The current edition of the festival has seen significant growth, particularly in its international participation and nationwide outreach. For the first time in years, the international section has expanded, and films are being screened across 24 provinces—an unprecedented move in the festival’s history. Additionally, over 390 cultural events have been organized in the city’s neighborhoods, engaging thousands of students, including those from underprivileged areas, in screenings and workshops at venues like the “Shahr-e Roya” (City of Dreams) complex. The festival has also introduced 1,550 young jurors and 50 teenage reporters selected from 350 applicants, empowering youth in both artistic evaluation and media coverage.

A key concern raised is the festival’s perceived temporality—ending each year without lasting impact. Salehi stressed the need for a long-term, process-oriented approach, advocating for a three- to five-year strategic plan. He highlighted the importance of continuous activities such as training workshops, scriptwriting labs, and filmmaking Olympiads throughout the year, not just during the festival period. To ensure sustainability, a joint committee has been proposed to evaluate the possibility of permanently hosting the festival in Isfahan, leveraging the city’s existing infrastructure, including the “City of Dreams” cinema complex.

A Message of Hope and Solidarity

In closing, Salehi delivered a heartfelt message to the young attendees: the festival is a space to learn, dream, and celebrate togetherness. He reminded them of the children lost in the 12-day war and called on today’s youth to be worthy standard-bearers of those sacrifices. At the same time, he urged them to be the voice for children worldwide—especially those in Gaza—who are deprived of peace and basic rights. Through their presence, creativity, and courage, the children of Iran can become a luminous caravan of peace and humanity.