Kurdish Film Festival Returns to Amsterdam

[Anthea]

Kurdish Film Festival Returns to Amsterdam

Amsterdam is once again opening its doors to Kurdish storytelling through film, as the fourth edition of the Amsterdam Kurdish Film Festival prepares to launch on May 9

Running through May 11, the three-day cultural event will bring together over 32 films and a host of accompanying activities aimed at celebrating and advancing Kurdish cinema, according to Kurdistan 24.

This year’s festival, backed by La Media Company, promises more than just film screenings. Audiences can expect thought-provoking panel talks, cultural showcases, and a creative space for global filmmakers to exchange ideas. The lineup spans four distinct categories, highlighting both seasoned directors and emerging talent.

In a move to nurture the next generation of Kurdish filmmakers, AKFF is expanding its academic wing. Young artists will be given the chance to workshop their projects with veteran directors, and some will walk away with financial backing to bring their ideas to life. Organizers hope this mentorship model will not only hone cinematic skills but also amplify Kurdish stories on the international stage.

“La Media has always seen AKFF as more than just a festival—it’s a platform to raise new voices and foster global recognition for Kurdish filmmakers,” a representative said. This year’s AKFF Academy will serve as a resource hub, helping participants shape their narratives and connect with audiences far beyond their home regions.

The event isn’t limited to cinema. Music, traditional dance, and rich discussions about the evolving landscape of Kurdish filmmaking will fill the program. Ten acclaimed Kurdish directors are set to attend, offering a rare opportunity for dialogue, collaboration, and community building.

Once marginalized in global film circuits, Kurdish cinema has steadily gained ground. Stories of exile, identity, survival, and resistance—told from Turkey to Syria, Iraq to Iran, and throughout the diaspora—are increasingly finding their place on screens worldwide. AKFF has emerged as one of the key venues supporting this movement.

By spotlighting Kurdish culture and language through the arts, the festival not only empowers filmmakers but also strengthens a global sense of cultural belonging. In a region where creative expression is often challenged, the Amsterdam Kurdish Film Festival stands as a testament to resilience and the power of narrative.

https://www.basnews.com/en/babat/882961