'It was overwhelming', says festival director Anika van der Kevie, tired but very satisfied. 'A full house in theater De Nieuwe Doelen at the opening night with the pre-premiere of Cairo Conspiracy, including a spectacular opening act in which Gorcum talents Georgios Lazakis, Anna-Risse Groot and city poet Martin Rensen provided a combination of dance, spoken word and video- art. The next day around 750 students for the school screenings. If there are also filmmakers and actors, it's one big film party with photo shoots and signing autographs. Such a wonderful opportunity for students, and that in your own city,' says van der Kevie.

This edition paid extra attention to films and culture from South Korea. A delegation from the Korean embassy visited the festival on Friday. Minister Consul General Heyeong Ahn opened this program with the very well-attended film Broker. Earlier that afternoon, well-known Dutch director and television producer Martin Koolhoven had given a masterclass for the youth jury. He then presented the Local Talent Program. This gave the young filmmakers a platform and was encouraged for their next work.