M

oviegoers of the world unite! The 23 rd Singapore International Film Festival (SIFF) is currently unfolding to the delight of film enthusiasts across the region until April 24, 2010.

Each year, SIFF screens over 200 multi-genre films with a focus on groundbreaking Asian cinema. Each year's entries represent the most avant-garde and cutting-edge cinema arts from ASEAN, India, South Korea, Japan, Australia, Europe, South America and Africa, with as many as three awards categories set under the umbrella of Singapore's Silver Screen Awards.

This year, Indonesian movies Ruma Maida (Maida's House) and Sang Pemimpi (The Dreamer) are screened at the Lido on April 16 and 19.

Sang Pemimpi tells the story of three youths who leave their village and families in order to continue their education. Inspired to pursue his big dreams, Ikal considers being poor as a humiliation that finally strains his relationship with Arai and Jimbron.

The movie also shows the beauty of friendship and the genuine love between a child and his father.

Aside from regular movie screenings, SIFF has also prepared a lineup of special programs focusing on a series of short movies (both local and international), New York contemporary avant-garde films, animated shorts, women in film, eclectic dance films and a Paris Opera ballet spotlight.

Film screenings and workshops are held every evening at various locations in downtown Singapore, including on Orchard Road and the city-state's Arts and Heritage District.

Among the over 70 short film submissions to SIFF year, seven finalists were selected and will compete for the best film, best director, best performance and best cinematography awards at the Silver Screen Awards and Gala on April 22.

For a complete listing of venues and schedules, visit www.filmfest.org.sg.

A flash of update for frequent visitors to Singapore: The Singapore Tourism Board (STB) has recently launched the YourSingapore website to help travelers personalize their visits according to individual needs, preferences and interests.

The website is an evolution of STB's previous "Uniquely Singapore" campaign and serves as a portal offering destination information, attractions, festivals, activities and other details to be collated into a comprehensive, customized itinerary for each individual.

Log on to www.yoursingapore.com to discover new facets of Singapore on your next visit!