IFF 2012 was launched on 05 September, with an exclusive preview/ gala opening for special guests held on 04 September at The Cathay.
Over a course of 8 days, the Festival presented 6 award-winning films and 12 ticketed screenings. IFF 2012 drew a crowd of 1500, selling out a whopping 93% of total seats. Oscar nominee Footnote and award-winning Restoration and The Secrets had a full house for their screenings while My Lovely Sister, Intimate Grammar and Jellyfish drew at least 90% of seat occupancy. That said, in terms of statistics, IFF2012 well exceeded our expectations for the festival and has given us the drive and passion to take the festival to the next level in 2013.
The festival opening night was a massive success with our invited guests that included members of the Diplomatic corp, our sponsors, arts partners and friends of the Embassy. Close to 170 guests were present at The Cathay for a preview screening of IFF's opening film, Restoration. Among the guests of honor were President of the Singapore Film Society, Mr Kenneth Tan as well as the award-winning screenwriter of the film, Restoration, Mr Erez Kav-EL. In light of the event being our 20th anniversary, the opening night was jazzed up with several treats including an AHAVA goodie bag and LALINE gift voucher for all guests, lucky draw prizes courtesy of LALINE for 5 guests, a Falafel stand courtesy of Pita Pan to tantalize the palates of both our local and Israeli guests as well as a lovely 3 piece band and a dazzling photo backdrop to heighten the spirits of the cocktail reception. In addition to this, sponsors of the festival were given special Patron of the Film Arts plaques to sincerely thank them for their partnership and contribution to the success of the festival.