'Wanted' director unveils action films festival in Kazakhstan

Action movies are getting their due this year. First there was ActionFest, which billed itself as the world’s first film festival geared toward action cinema, running in Asheville, N.C., in April.

Now comes the inaugural Astana International Action Film Festival, being held in Kazakhstan, of all places.

Timur Bekmambetov, best known as the director of “Wanted,” is the organizer of the fest, with the idea of bridging Asian and Western film markets and showcase a unique lineup of action films. Festival accoutrements like forums and discussions are also planned.

The festival is also running a screenplay competition, with the winner receiving a cash prize as well as a chance to develop their script with Bekmambetov’s production company, Bazelevs.

Movies set to have gala soirees include “Shanghai,” “The Twilight Sage: Eclipse,” “Monsters,” “District 9,” “The Last Airbender,” “Inhale,” “Countdown to Zero” and “Karate Kid,” among others.

And the fest is touting the appearances of Hollywood players Harvey Weinstein and Lawrence Bender, “District 9” actor Sharlto Copley and classic action star Dolph Lundgren.

“Our festival is timed to the birthday of the capital of Kazakhstan in an effort to create a festive atmosphere for the residents of Astana while showcasing the spirit of the city to our guests,” said Bekmambetov in a statement. “Our aim is for the festival to become a cultural bridge of discovery, as well as an effective and productive pipeline for producers, investors and prospective partners to foster growth and opportunity for the filmmaking community of Kazakhstan.”

The festival is set to run June 27-July 1 in Astana City, Kazakhstan

Source: Heatvisionblog.com