Guwahati: Babak Khajehpasha-directed Iranian submission to Oscar Awards, ‘In the Arms of the Tree’, will be the opening cinema of the 1st Guwahati Asian Film Festival.
The highly anticipated GAFF 2025 will take place from February 7-9.
The festival organizers, in a statement, said, “The film ‘In the Arms of the Tree’, Iran’s official submission for the 97th Academy Awards, is the opening film for GAFF 2025.”
‘In the Arms of the Tree’ tells the story of a couple married for twelve years, whose life crisis shatters their children’s world. The film features actors Maral Baniadam, Javad Ghamati and Rouhollah Zamani.
The first edition of the film festival promises to be a landmark event, showcasing a comprehensive range of cinematic works from Turkey, Kazakhstan, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Iran, China, and other nations.
In addition to showcasing the best of Asian cinema, GAFF 2025 will feature two special segments. The Indian Showcase Section will highlight the rich and diverse tapestry of Indian cinema, while the North East India Competition Section will celebrate the emerging talent and unique storytelling from this region.
GAFF’s advisory board boasts several distinguished members from the film fraternity. Apart from Borgohain, some of the notable members of GAFF are renowned film critic and festival advisor Srinivasa Santhanam, national award-winning film critic and filmmaker Utpal Borpujari, and prominent film critic, music journalist and editor Dalton Christopher.
ALSO READ: First ‘Guwahati Asian Film Festival’ to be held in February 2025
GAFF 2025 will offer various events like film screenings, panel discussions and networking opportunities for film enthusiasts and industry professionals.
GAFF Festival Director Monita Borgohain said the event is not just a celebration of films but a platform to connect cultures, foster dialogue and discover new narratives.
