Mountain Festival features int'l films

Documentaries showcase natural wonders, encourage environmental conservation

ISLAMABAD:

As part of the 14th Pakistan Mountain Festival, Devcom-Pakistan, in collaboration with Alliance Française Islamabad, recently hosted the screening of three best films from the internationally acclaimed Inka Fest (Peru).

The event celebrated the beauty, resilience and challenges of mountain ecosystems while fostering global cultural connections. The film screening aimed to highlight the significance of mountain ecosystems, the lives of mountain communities and the spirit of adventure, while drawing attention to the urgent need for their conservation.

The screening attracted a diverse audience, including students, environmentalists, adventurers and art enthusiasts. It was a moment of reflection and dialogue on the intricate connections between culture, climate change and mountain conservation.

Directed by Michael Safley, Slow Water is a poignant documentary that delves into the intricate relationship between nature and indigenous innovation. Set in the majestic highlands of Peru, the film highlights how local communities ingeniously manage glacial meltwater to sustain wetlands and livestock amidst the looming threats of climate change.

The narrative takes an alarming turn as it uncovers the rising menace of illegal mining, which pollutes these critical water sources and jeopardizes both the environment and local livelihoods.

With a runtime of 20 minutes, this English-language documentary, awarded Avant Premiere, is more than just a story—it is a compelling call to protect fragile ecosystems and support the people who depend on them for survival.

The three films screened included a poignant documentary called 'Slow Water', a mesmersing visual adventure, 'Chronoception', and 'In The Valley of Fire' which featured one of America's most spectacular valleys.

The three films collectively transported audiences to some of the world's most awe-inspiring mountain landscapes, showcasing stories of human resilience, cultural heritage and the delicate balance between adventure and conservation. Each narrative, uniquely crafted, serves as a reminder of the beauty and fragility of our planet's most extraordinary ecosystems.

Devcom-Pakistan Executive Director and Founder of the Pakistan Mountain Festival, Munir Ahmed, underscored the role of films in raising awareness about mountain ecosystems and the challenges they face. "Mountains are vital to the survival of our planet, yet they remain under constant threat from climate change, unsustainable practices, and human neglect. Through the art of storytelling in films, we aim to inspire appreciation for the beauty of mountains and encourage collective efforts for their conservation," he said.

The film screening reaffirmed the importance of global partnerships and storytelling in raising awareness about mountain challenges and opportunities. The 14th Pakistan Mountain Festival continues with a series of events designed to spotlight the beauty and significance of mountains, advocating for their preservation and sustainable development.