The Belgian capital is hosting the 43rd edition of the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival (BIFFF) until 20 April. For almost two weeks, visitors can enjoy film screenings, workshops and events, all with a fantastical and thrilling twist.
While well known for its screenings of thrillers and fantasies, the themed film festival's programme showcases cinema ranging from dark comedies to science fiction and action. The focus for BIFFF's seventh art showcase this year is 'Future Frights.'
"Today, all the economic, climatic, ideological and existential warning lights are flashing red," BIFFF writes in a press release. "This global disorder is an inexhaustible source of inspiration for genre cinema. But, through the filter of fiction, all these films also – and above all – represent a warning."
Among the films which BIFFF classifies as "warnings" for the future are the Finnish sci-fi 'After Us, The Flood', the Canadian post-apocalyptic 'Welcome to Kittytown' and the Spanish 'Rich Flu.'
Silent screenings
This year, BIFFF will also hold four special silent screenings. "It allows us to show you a different kind of fantastic cinema: one that thrives on silence to immerse you all the more skilfully in its particular world," BIFFF writes. The featured titles in this experience are 'Rabbit Trap', 'Wet Monday', 'A Whale' and 'The Ice Tower'.
For those interested in getting more involved in fantastical stories, BIFFF is offering three masterclasses.
On 9 April, the discussions (in French) will focus on how women are represented in fantastic art, including cinema. The masterclass will be kicked off by the director of 'Animale', Emma Benestan, and Pauline Marlière, who was involved in creating the video game Caravan SandWitch.
On 12 April, director and producer Danny Boyle, known for hits such as 'Trainspotting' and 'Slumdog Millionaire' will stop by the festival to give visitors an insight into his decades-long career of creating award-winning titles.
On 15 April, ex-police officer turned writer, Olivier Norek, will take to the 'Q&A stage' to talk through his career and work.
Credit: BIFFF/Saskia Batugowski
Celebrating all things fantastic will even go beyond the big screen at BIFFF. The festival will feature three competitions open to the public (through registering online) that will celebrate the best art, make-up, and body painting.
There will be stands selling merchandise, books and even tattoos throughout the event. The 'Freaky Faktory' will also add to the line-up of stands, featuring unique artistic creations, jewellery, and alternative fashion.
Those looking for a more immersive gateway into a world of pure imagination can partake in the 'Vampires' ball'. From 22:00 on 19 April, BIFFF will host the 40th edition of the costume party. While the event is free, the festival strongly encourages visitors to dress on theme, for a "fangtastic" night.
Credit: BIFFF/Saskia Batugowski
While access to the festival site is free, some film screenings require a ticket to be purchased online or on-site. More information on ticket prices, the events, and competitions can be found online.
The festival will bring its programme to the Brussels Expo in Heysel until 20 April. BIFFF is open only to those aged 16 years and above, except for events with explicitly written exceptions (such as the Family Screenings) or with authorisation from parents or guardians.
