Moscow International Film Festival
When travelling to Russia, there are many hidden treasures that tourists may miss while seeking for engaging and authentic attractions. One such tourist hot-spot is the Moscow International Film Festival (MIFF)- among the oldest and most popular of its kind. Incepted in 1935, the festival gained popularity in the late 50s and 60s when a new generation of Russian directors were inspired by their nation’s woes and victories in the previous decades. As a true platform for the cultivation and recognition of artistic talent, the Moscow International Film Festival paved the way for many filmmakers who later became known throughout the world: Istvan Szabo and Kaneto Shindo, Krzysztof Kieslowski and Aki Kaurismaki, Kohei Oguri and Humberto Solas.
Some highlights from the 34th annual festival in 2012 include the American film director Tim Burton receiving the honorary prize for contribution to world cinema. The diverse program included more than 200 films from 50 countries around the world. The panel of judges for the competitive portion of the festival included internationally renowned directors and actors from all over the globe.