The inaugural World Culture Film Festival, inspired by Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, aims to promote consciousness-raising content for global unity and positive change.
After the thumping success of the World Culture Festival in Washington DC last October, the Art of Living Foundation is hosting the inaugural World Culture Film Festival (WCFF) in Los Angeles from July 25-28, 2024. The line-up of movies and events promises captivating entertainment that celebrates global stories, enriching human consciousness-raising essence through the art of cinema.
Inspired by the visionary humanitarian Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, the festival aims to inspire a stress-free, violence-free world. The global guru’s impact has touched millions with his profound teachings and efforts towards world peace.
The festival boasts a lineup of 60+ official selections, featuring films from over 60 countries, including Australia, Belgium, Mexico, Tibet, Japan, Germany and Brazil. These cinematic gems will be screened at prestigious venues, including USC’s Ray Stark Theater and the newly reopened Downtown Independent Theater, with online streaming available on EOFlix.
Kicking off the 4-day program, the Opening Night will showcase ‘The Monk and The Gun,’ directed by Pawo Choyning Dorji, a Bhutanese filmmaker acclaimed for the Oscar-nominated ‘Lunana: A Yak in the Classroom’ (2019).
Featuring prominently at the WCFF are standout films such as Justin Grant and Laurens Goud’s ‘Our Voice, Our Heart,’ winner of the 2024 Golden Doc in Asia & Australia, and Radha Mehta’s ‘Dosh,’ recipient of the 2024 Slamdance George Starks Spirit Award. Also in the lineup are Julio Palacio’s ‘Makayla’s Voice: A Letter to the World,’ honored at the 2024 Tribeca Film Festival, ‘Crown’ by Dash Kolo, Harry Holland’s ‘Last Call’ starring Tom Holland, and ‘Perfect Days’ by Oscar-nominee Wim Wenders, which closes the festival.
These films not only entertain but also aim to create consciousness-raising content and provoke thought on important social issues.
Palacio’s ‘Makayla’s Voice,’ explores the power of voice and advocacy in today’s world. ‘Crown’ delves into themes of identity and self-discovery, offering a poignant narrative that resonates deeply with audiences.
‘Last Call’ tackles timely topics with sensitivity and depth. ‘Perfect Days’ takes a reflective look at human relationships and the pursuit of happiness.
Some of these films may already be available for streaming on platforms like EOFlix, providing global audiences with opportunities to engage with their powerful messages beyond the festival setting. This accessibility ensures that the impact of these consciousness-raising films extends far beyond the event itself, fostering ongoing discussions and societal reflection.
WCFF, presented by AoL in partnership with USC School of Cinematic Arts, is dedicated to showcasing culturally diverse narratives that inspire empathy, understanding, and positive change in the world.
Other highlights include a live table read of ‘Logic of Love’ with acclaimed director and producer Barnet Bain (‘What Dreams May Come,’ ‘The Celestine Prophecy’), and insightful industry panels such as the Film Festival Director’s Panel, an Environmental Panel, and a Storytelling Panel featuring luminaries like Vernon Foster, Gil Junger (‘10 Things I Hate About You’), and Sebastien Siegel (‘Grace and Grit’).
The festival culminates with a binaural beats music experience featuring Sri Sri Ravi Shankar and music composer Stephen Hilton (‘Kung Fu Panda’, ‘Quantum of Solace’).
Anabelle D. Munro and Sej Saraiya, the festival’s executive directors, bring extensive experience in film production and festival leadership. Munro, CEO and Founder of the ETHOS Film Awards and Institute, and Saraiya, an award-winning visual artist focused on Indigenous narratives, have expressed their excitement for the inaugural WCFF.
Jatin Chaurasia, the driving force behind WCFF and CEO of Sumeru Inc. and Sumeru Studios, leverages two decades of entrepreneurial expertise to bring together international talent and innovative technology.
Partnerships with USC, Filmmakers Alliance, EOFlix, and others underscore WCFF’s commitment to promoting conscious media and cultural exchange.
Tickets and passes for the festival are available online.
For more information, visit worldculturefilmfestival.org and connect on social media:
-Instagram: @worldculturefilmfestival
-Facebook: @worldculturefilmfestival
1 comment
Kudos. We need more festivals like this all over the world, including India.