Edinburgh International Film Festival today announced the continuation of artistic director Chris Fujiwara’s tenure, initially for a further three years.
The continued appointment was announced following 2012’s event that saw admissions of just over 40,000 across the 12-day event.
Fujiwara took the helm of the festival after 2011's edition was dogged by controversy that ultimately saw it present a much smaller slate.
Fujiwara's appointment marked a return to form, with 120 feature films playing alongside two retrospectives, shorts programmes, a full industry programme, talent development labs, education initiatives and special events. Although there wasn't quite as much red carpet glamour as in some years, this year's festival benefited from the highly publicised European premiere of Pixar's Brave and earned critical plaudits for its return to form as a festival of 'discovery'.
Fujiwara also oversaw the return of the Michael Powell and International Awards.
Fujiwara said: “Working on this year’s EIFF has been one of the most challenging and fulfilling experiences of my career. The interest and enthusiasm of the Festival audience and the dedication and professionalism of the Festival staff and volunteers have transformed my view of the importance cinema can hold in people’s lives.
“I’m deeply grateful to the Board for their confidence in me, and I’m thrilled to have the opportunity to expand our relationships with our audiences and with international filmmakers, distributors and sales agents. I’m very excited about working to shape the future of EIFF.”
On behalf of the EIFF Board which confirmed the appointment, Chair, Leslie Hills said: “EIFF is an institution with a reputation for reinvention over decades. Chris Fujiwara gave us a superb reinvention in EIFF 2012.
“Chris, along with the excellent support of staff and volunteers delivered, with his signature intelligence, knowledge and humour, a multi-faceted programme which engaged filmgoers and professionals, students and critics alike. We are utterly delighted that he has accepted our offer to build on this very promising first edition. “
