Empowering Women in Resistance Filmmaking

TEHRAN – The 18th Resistance International Film Festival is currently hosting a workshop titled “Women and Resistance,” designed for international participants.

Workshop Objectives

This workshop seeks to empower documentary filmmakers to create impactful content centered around the themes of resistance and the vital contributions of women in this domain.

Insights from the Committee

Esrafil Kaliji, head of the International Committee of the Resistance Film Festival, discussed the workshop’s significance, which is taking place at the Shahid Avini School of Art and Media in Tehran. He noted, “Our festival aims to train aspiring documentary filmmakers from around the world, especially highlighting women’s essential roles in resistance narratives.”

Importance of Women in Resistance

Kaliji emphasized that a key objective of the festival is to build educational and supportive platforms for nurturing talent in resistance filmmaking. By acknowledging women’s integral roles in resistance movements, the workshop strives to pave the way for their enhanced and influential participation in this important field.

“In recent years, the contributions of women on the resistance front have been extraordinarily significant,” he stated, warning against overlooking this crucial aspect as it may weaken broader resistance efforts.

Narrative and Misconceptions

Kaliji highlighted the need for storytelling to counter misconceptions, saying, “As opposing forces employ various tactics to diminish women’s roles in cultural and resistance contexts, it’s vital to showcase their unique contributions within families and societies. Film and documentary art are powerful tools for communicating this narrative.”

Diverse International Participation

Marzieh Minayipur, head of the Women’s Group of the International Committee of the Resistance Film Festival, shared insights on the diverse international participation in the workshop. Participants hail from countries such as Russia, Azerbaijan, Afghanistan, Pakistan, India, Kashmir, Venezuela, Lebanon, Syria, Iraq, Tajikistan, Bangladesh, Saudi Arabia, Palestine, Yemen, the UK, Indonesia, China, Myanmar, Turkey, and Nigeria, all engaging actively in the workshop.

Professional Development

Minayipur remarked on the workshop’s potential to significantly benefit participants seeking to enhance their documentary filmmaking and media skills. “By identifying each participant’s unique talents and offering hands-on training, this workshop aims to develop skilled professionals who excel in producing documentaries focused on resistance themes,” she explained.

Certification and Conclusion

At the conclusion of the workshop, participants will be awarded certificates from the Shahid Avini School of Art, Media and Virtual Space and will have the opportunity to present works reflecting their regional concerns at the festival.

The workshop is set to continue until March 3, fostering the next generation of resistance filmmakers.