The Tirana International Fair, organized by Click Expo Group, emphasized the significance of cinematography and photography in nurturing the culture and education of younger generations.

The seminar, which intertwined literature, cinema, and theater, revitalized the collective emotional memory. Noteworthy figures in cinematography, including director and actor Professor Mevlan Shanaj, Marinela Ndria, Director of the Central State Film Archive, and television film operator Ilir Kasneci, participated in a session focused on ‘The Significance of Interconnecting Literature, Cinema, and Theater’.

Actor and director Mevlan Shanaj expressed gratitude to the organizers for their dedication to Albanian cinematography, acknowledging the opportunity provided to promote art and culture on both national and international platforms through this significant event.

“It’s a divergence into the genesis of art and the individuals whom, in my view, have etched history and immortality into their work. Images endure when marked by great achievements and success. Even after 50 years, such works, like ‘The Eighth in the Bronx,’ persist in public memory, reverberate in conversations, and uphold a continuous respect. For us, who journey alongside these creations, it stands as an honor—a justified source of pride. Contributing to the bedrock of Albanian cinema, emotional memory, the people’s tradition, and their history—spanning from ancient times to contemporary narratives—is indeed a privilege,” remarked Mevlan Shanaj.

During the panel discussion centered on the film ‘I teti në Brox,’ scripted by Dritëro Agolli and directed by Viktor Gjika, the focus was on its narrative set during the Second World War—an event that deeply impacted not only Albania but also distinguished between the losing and winning factions. “Thankfully, the character we’re examining today belongs to the victorious side,” remarked Shanaj. He highlighted, “A substantial archive comprising about 300 Albanian-produced films has fostered tremendous spiritual wealth. Any sporadic effort falls short in shaking the magnitude that these works have established, not just on screen, but within the soul and collective memory of the Albanian people,” added Mevlan Shanaj. He appealed for increased promotion and creation of high-quality productions in cinematography.

Marinela Ndria, Director of the Central State Film Archive, commended the initiative taken by the fair’s organizers and media businesses for their contributions to promoting art and culture. Notably, she emphasized the significance of screening ‘Poppies on the Walls,’ stating, “After extensive restoration efforts on a much-loved film, it became apparent that the audience attended not merely for the high-resolution restoration, but because of their deep affection for the film itself—a piece of cinematography already etched into the collective memory,” stressed Ndria.

Ilir Kasneci, the renowned television film operator, who recently returned from the USA after many years, emphasized the significance of incorporating culture into a business fair and acknowledging the attention given to local art and history. He stressed the importance of documenting history to leave a lasting legacy for future generations.

Luan Muhametaj, President of ‘Click Expo Group,’ commended Marinela Ndria, Director of the Central State Film Archive, for her invaluable support in an activity showcasing early props used as part of the set designs in Albanian films. The Central State Film Archive has been diligently involved in substantial restoration projects, international activities encompassing festivals, online platforms, and collaboration with foreign television networks. Through its extensive work promoting Albanian cinematography up to 1998, the Archive stands as a major contributor in fostering and supporting the cinematic arts.

As part of the events dedicated to art and culture, esteemed actor and director Mevlan Shanaj was honored with the Gold Medal of the Eagle in recognition of his invaluable contributions to Albanian cinematography.

/m.ll/