The AFM International Independent Film Festival in Istanbul, also called !f Istanbul, is in its eighth year, and this means that February becomes more than just a rainy, cold and dark month for many Istanbullus. From Thursday, 12 February until 22 February, around 70 films will be shown

This year’s slogan for the festival is “Do it Yourself!”, and from 26 February, the festival will continue in Ankara.

Films in 12 sections

The films will be shown under 12 headings: !f Inspired, Hit Films, Northern Lights, CounterSounds, Fantastic Films, The World in 1 Take, New Wave America, Do-it-Yourself, Rainbow Films, !f Cult Special, Insomnia, and !f Shorts. The programme also includes parties and workshops.

Like in previous years, the festival offers the opportunity to watch the Oscar nominated films before the Academy Awards are announced on 22 February. The Wrestler, featuring Mickey Rourke, Slumdog Millionaire, Danny Boyle’s low-budget success, and Revolutionary Road, which has brought actress Kate Winslet several prizes are among them.

For the second year running, !f is organising a competition for the “Most inspiring Director”. Eight films are competing in this category, “!f inspired”.

Under the heading “Rainbow films, six award-winning gay and lesbian films from different countries are shown.

Venues and tickets

For more detailed information about films, schedules and tickets, click here. Ticket prices range from 7 to 15 TL. Tickets can also be bought online.

Films are showing at the Beyoğlu AFM Fitaş, AFM İstinye Park, AFM Caddebostan Budak and the Beyoğlu Emek Cinemas. (BÇ/AG)