Local stars say ITFF in Maldives an advancement, ask for more

Local movie starts declare the first International Tourism Film Festival being held in Maldives by The Sun Siyam Iru Fushi Maldives a great advancement and experience to Maldivian film industry.

The comments were made by top local film director Abdul Fattah Abdul Gayoom, popular actress and producer Aishath Rishmy, and up-and-coming actor Jumayyil Nimal – invitees to the ITFF titled – Following the Equator.

Fattah said that he got the opportunity to mingle with officials from international film organizations, opening doors to new opportunities.

(From L-R) Jumayyil, Rishmy and Fattah in interview with Sun. Sun photo: Naail

A veteran in local film industry with more than 16 years of experience, Fattah said that there were talented individuals in Maldives who can make tourist videos, documentaries or short films.

He said that the talents of such individuals can be showcased if more resorts took initiative and held international film festivals.

Local heartthrob Jumayyil said that an international film festival being held in Maldives was the greatest happiness he received during his short time in the industry.

(From L-R) Jumayyil, Rishmy and Fattah in interview with Sun. Sun photo: Naail

He said that achievements made by Maldivians films in international film festivals held in the past proved that Maldivians were more than capable when it comes to film making.

Rishmy, who literally danced her way into the film industry said that a film festival was held at great expense, and that it was therefore necessary for businessmen such as Chairman of Sun Siyam Group, Ahmed Siyam Mohamed to take initiative and host film festivals to develop the industry.