On 5 December, the eighth Arctic Film Festival begins in the capital of Pomorye, showcasing 70 of the best films. The festival's grand opening ceremony will take place at the Lomonosov Drama Theatre. This is reported by the News29 portal.

The grand opening of the 8th ARCTIC OPEN International Film Festival will be held in Arkhangelsk this evening. The colourful ceremony will take place at the Lomonosov Drama Theatre. Among the invited guests is Alexander Oleshko, Honoured Artist of the Russian Federation.

Over the years, the event has become one of the most significant cultural happenings in Pomorye. This year, the competition received over 2,800 entries from more than 100 countries. Of these, nearly 250 films made it to the longlist. The festival shortlist comprises 70 films from 18 countries, including Russia, France, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Iran, India, Andorra, Lebanon, Poland, Spain, Finland, UK, Argentina, Colombia, Brazil, USA, Mexico and China.

The competition programme of the 8th Arctic Film Festival includes 12 feature-length films, 20 short films and 23 documentaries. The separate category 'Arctic Open for Children and Youth' features 10 films. Winners will be determined in four categories: feature-length, short and documentary films, as well as films for children and youth.

Organisers strongly encourage northerners not to miss the chance to see these films, many of which can only be viewed 'here and now.' During the film forum, audiences will also have the opportunity to meet the filmmakers. Films will be presented by directors, producers, writers and actors. The festival will run until 8 December.

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