Turkey’s first International Mythology Film Festival, organized by the TÜMAV Foundation, will take place on December 21-22-23. The festival aims to bring the enchanting world of mythology to movie enthusiasts and explore the richness of Turkish mythology.

A Unique Festival Experience under the Leadership of Gülşah Elikbank

Gülşah Elikbank, who has taken on the directorship of the festival, stated that they aim to bring the unique narratives of Turkish mythology to a broader audience through cinema. Elikbank expressed satisfaction with the interest and support they received in the first year, emphasizing that this encouraged them to expand and continue the festival.

Mythological Journey Starting in Izmir

Elikbank, emphasizing that starting the festival in Izmir is a fitting choice due to the region’s rich mythological history, highlighted that the festival will offer a unique experience of Turkish mythology to the audience.

Festival Program and Participants

The festival, starting on December 21 at the Izmir Republic Education Museum, will present valuable films and panels to the audience for three days. The Advisory Board of the festival includes well-known figures such as Ferzan Özpetek, Derviş Zaim, Onur Saylak, and Başak Köklükaya, with Kerem Akça serving as the Artistic Director.

Panels and Cinematic Discoveries

On December 21, the panels starting at Yaşar University will be led by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Yasemin Polat, who will discuss the concepts of Beauty and Goodness in Mythology. Following the panel, the film Beauty and the Beast will be screened.

On December 22, panels at Yaşar University will feature experts discussing Turkish Mythology and Mythology in Cinema and TV Series. Following the panels, the film Tales from Earthsea will be screened.

Film screenings will continue throughout the day on December 22 and 23 at the Karabağlar Municipality Yıldız Kenter Cultural Center, offering viewers a cinematic experience filled with mythology.

Award Ceremony and Artistic Gathering in Izmir

The closing of the festival will take place on December 23 at the Yıldız Kenter Cultural Center. The award ceremony will be accompanied by a harp recital from the talented Zeynep Duru Güleç and a presentation on Izmir Mythology by Prof. Dr. Akın Ersoy. The ceremony will be hosted by the renowned actor Önder Atakanlı.

Supporters and Sponsors

Supported by the Turkish Ministry of Cinema General Directorate, the festival is made possible with contributions from the Izmir Metropolitan Municipality, Karabağlar and Konak Municipalities, Yaşar University, Ozza Medya, and UKEB Schools. Mythology enthusiasts and cinema lovers will embark on an unforgettable journey into the unique world of mythology and cinema with this festival.