KRS Film Distributors yesterday launched the fourth edition of the Malta International Film Festival, giving cinema-goers and film fans the opportunity to watch 14 films from all over the world.

The 14 films will be shown in the three main cinemas: Eden Century Cinemas in St Julian’s, Embassy Cinemas in Valletta and the Empire Cinema in Bugibba, for a fortnight from 31 October to 13 November.

The festival will show films that have either won or are nominated for awards at prestigious film festivals.

The films vary from political, war, comedy, drama, fantasy and thrillers and were produced in France, Italy, Sweden, Germany, Israel, Palestine, Venezuela, Chile, Japan, Republic of Korea and South Africa.

“Although we cannot say that we are pleased with the response to these films when these were released, we are encouraged by the improvement in the attendance of last year’s festival,” KRS director Charles Pace said.

He compared the festival to the London Film Festival.

“This is not a competitive film festival but a celebration of film,” said Mr Pace.

This year’s film festival also boasts a Maltese production, directed by Engelbert Grech, called Heroes in the Sky.

The documentary film is set in World War II and tells the story of a group of pilots who fought to defend Malta, explained Mr Pace.

The cinema tickets will cost Lm2/EUR4.66 for shows starting before 5pm and Lm2.35/EUR5.47 for shows starting after 5pm.