04.12.2019
A World of Silent Films: Silent Film Festivals From Around The World
The “silent” years of cinema between 1895 - 1930 saw a great number of productions that are still a joy to watch. Since the 6th International Istanbul Silent Cinema Days were taken place at Akbank Sanat during 5-7 December 2019, we have decided to take a look at the world’s various silent cinema festivals.
Text: Hande Sönmez
Translated: Yetkin Nural
Collage: Sadi Güran
From England to Scotland, Germany to Holland, the number of silent cinema festivals which are organized in various countries from around the world, is quiet numerous. While some festivals screen silent films under a certain category, others choose to make a full program of great examples from silent cinema. Here we present you an introductory selection of such events that take place in different countries around the world.
San Francisco Silent Film Festival
Celebrating its 25th year in 29 April - 3 May 2020, San Francisco Silent Film Festival is one of the most long-running festivals of its kind. Hosting over 25 thousand contributors to this day, festival also organizes single-day events throughout the year.
Toronto Silent Film Festival
Toronto Silent Film Festival is counting down to its 10th event which will take place in 2020 January. Just like its San Francisco counterpart, Toronto Film Festival doesn’t limit itself to just the festival period and organizes single events at the Toronto’s prestigious Fox Theatre in various times throughout the year.
Bonn International Silent Film Days
With a journey of 35 years, Bonn International Silent Film Days is one of the longest running silent film festivals of the world. Bonn University hosts the event which has a dense program stretched over 10 days.
Holland Silent Film Festival
Taking place at the Eindhoven, Holland Silent Film Festival is going to be organized for the third time in the upcoming year. The festival includes classics like Charlie Chaplin films and Laurel and Hardy as well as more rare films in its four day long program.
Poland Silent Film Festival
17th Poland Silent Film Festival will take place in 2020 with a four day program for the pleasure of Warsaw silent film fans.
Beside other silent film festivals/days that take place in all over the world like in Mexico, Kansas, Finland etc., silent films accompanied by live music also find a place in major festivals like Berlin, London, Cambridge Film Festivals’ programs, shining a light on early days of the cinema history.