More than 350 films have been locked in for this year’s Kenya International Film Festival, representing close to 43 countries.

 

Starting October 24, the films will be showcased in Nairobi, Mombasa and Kisumu under the theme ‘world classics’.

 

Festival Director Charles Asiba says the classics chosen will be from across Africa and even feature a number of world classics.

 

“Preparation for this years’ festival are complete and we are looking forward once again for a good response from film lovers and enthusiasts. KIFF will have various activities to bolster film making, these include workshops and mentorship programmes,” he added.

 

A nifty selection of classics includes the original Titanic, shot in the 60s and in collaboration with M-Net, some African classics shot as far back as the 1970s. Screenings in Nairobi will take place at the National Museums of Kenya, the French Cultural Centre, the Goethe Institute, Prestige Plaza and the Village Market, while in Kisumu the action will be at Nakumatt Mega city Starflix, and Fort Jesus in Mombasa.

 

KIFF chairman Michael Otieno said there was an improvement in the quality of films submitted, and not just the number.

 

“We are happy that this year has seen an increase in the number of film makers from Kenya. We are not only interested in the quantum number but also the quality of films that are being sent to us,” read a statement.

 

2011 comedy The Captain of Nakara, written by the witty Cajetan Boy and directed by veteran Bob Nyanja, will be the lucky film opening the festival.

 

According to Asiba, this will be the first time the film is being screened in Africa.

 

This year’s KIFF ceremony will close with awards in categories such as; Best Documentary, Best Feature, Best East Africa film, Jury Award, Best actor and Best actress.