GWANGJU < invest Korea

According to Yonhap News,

(SEOUL= Yonhap News) The Swedish Film Festival will be held in Seoul, Busan and Gwangju early next month to introduce Swedish contemporary films and trends to Korean audiences, organizers said Monday.

The 5th edition will run at Arthouse Momo in Seoul from Nov. 2-8, at Busan Cinema Center from Nov. 4-10 and at Cinema Center in Gwangju from Nov. 6-12, the Swedish Embassy said.

The festival will feature five feature films, three documentary films and ten short films under the theme "Solidarity and Friendship -- Opening Hearts." 

The documentary "Astrid" depicts the life and works of the much-beloved children's writer Astrid Lindgren. Known for "Pippi Longstocking," Astrid Lindgren created a channel for adults to connect with the world of children and, throughout her life, she continued to build friendships with children.

"The Circle," based on a fantasy novel, gives us a unique glimpse into the difficulties of puberty and friendships of teenagers who come together as "witches," taking on a fantastic adventure. In "We are the Best" daring thirteen-year-old girls start a punk band, while in "Young Sophie Bell" we witness the growing pains of Sophie as she goes on a precarious journey in search of her best friend Alice who has disappeared.

"Underdog" delves deeply into class issues with young Swedes looking for a job in Norway. In "Viskan Miracles," families of different social groups sort out their differences and reconcile successfully in the most cheerful manner.

The documentary "Nice People" approaches the issue of immigrants and their integration from a new angle, with Somalian men challenged to create the first national team in "bandy," a winter sport.

"Bikes vs Cars" zooms in on environmental issues, does not merely juxtapose bikers and automobile drivers in a confrontation but proposes a harmonized world through sharing and unity. Added to the eight feature films is the "Short Highlights of Sweden," with ten very original short films on animal rights, human rights, sexual discrimination and marginalized elderly and minority groups.

Leading actress Bianca Kronlof of "Underdog," the opening film of the Festival in Seoul, The Circle's Director Levan Akin and Screenwriter Sara Bergmark Elfgren will join the audience for Guest of Voice sessions, enriching the festival experience.

The event will also provide visitors with a forum to encounter the life and culture of a Sweden that strives for equality, respect for human rights and a sustainable environment. All screenings are free of charge.

sshim@yna.co.kr

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