Maps Talk 1 – Cinema: Tradition and Rediscoveries

December 2023

The talk “Cinema: Tradition and Rediscoveries,” held on December 5, by journalist Elsa Demo, film director Joni Shanaj, and producer Enea Gramo, marked a significant moment for the ARTNEXUS implementation in Albania.

Elsa Demo, drawing from her research ‘A Listless Cinematic Culture’ – part of the “Maps” series – highlighted the disconnection between public policies and audience engagement in Albanian cinema, as well as the deterioration of existing infrastructure.

Producer Joni Shanaj addressed economic hurdles faced by new independent filmmakers and difficulties securing funding in an industry dominated by personal connections.

Enea Gramo critiqued the National Center of Cinematography’s inadequate efforts in promoting Albanian films and the lack of robust promotional strategy.

The talk unveiled unedited statistics showing a stark decline in viewership of publicly funded Albanian films from 2019 to 2022, signaling an urgent need to reevaluate the industry’s approach to filmmaking and distribution.

Photos by Abi Shehu

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