Get ready for an immersive experience at the 2024 Rhodope International Documentary Film Festival, July 11-14 in Smolyan!
We’re thrilled to introduce our Virtual Reality (VR) section, featuring a selection of VR films from the U.S., and an engaging workshop aiming to introduce the new technology to local youth. Through this initiative we are aiming to enhance cultural exchange, boost digital literacy, and decentralize cultural opportunities.
Don’t miss this chance to explore the future of filmmaking and connect with innovative creators.
The special program and workshops “Virtual Reality” are implemented with the financial support of the U.S. Embassy Sofia.
PROGRAM
July 11, 19:00 Festival Opening
• Opening ceremony and introduction
July 12: VR Screenings and Workshop
• 10:00 – 15:00 Screenings of selected VR films from the U.S.
• 15:30 Workshop on VR filmmaking techniques and practice
July 13: Interactive Experiences
• 10:00 – 15:00 VR film screenings from the U.S.
• 15:30 Workshop: practical exercises
July 14: Closing Day
• 10:00 – 15:00 Final VR screenings
• 18:00 Closing ceremony and celebration
“Fight Back” by Celine Tricart – USA, France
A long time ago, the First Star defeated Darkness. But today, the Shadows have come back, and stars have disappeared from the skies once again! As a newborn star, you must rescue your sisters, and liberate them from darkness. With their help, you’ll reveal your incredible potential and learn the secrets of your constellation. Under the cover of a thrilling, fun adventure game using groundbreaking hand-tracking technology, Fight Back VR is an introduction to self- defense techniques as an answer to gender-based violence. It utilises the unmatched potential of VR as a tool for learning and developing muscle memory, mental skills and confidence while shining a light on stories of courageous women.
“Spheres: songs of a spacetime” by Eliza McNitt – USA
Spheres: Songs of Spacetime is a three-part virtual reality (VR) experience created by Eliza McNitt and produced by Darren Aronofsky that takes the viewer on a journey through space and the sounds that can be heard there.
“Traveling while Black” by Roger Ross Williams – USA
Traveling While Black is a cinematic VR experience that immerses the viewer in the long history of restriction of movement for black Americans and the creation of safe spaces in our communities. Visit historic Ben’s Chili Bowl and join patrons as they share and reflect on their experiences. Confronting the way we understand and talk about race in America, Traveling While Black highlights the urgent need to facilitate a dialogue about the challenges minority travelers still face today.
“Wolves in the walls” by Pete Billington – USA
What makes the noises we can’t explain? Eight-year-old Lucy is convinced it’s wolves. Her family is not so sure. But something has been stealing Mom’s jam, glitching Brother’s games, and howling over Dad’s music. Lucy desperately wants to warn them all, and she needs your help. Will you believe her? Because when the wolves do, in fact, come out of the walls, it’s all over.