Published on October 16, 2005

Oscar-winning director Roman Polanski positively dazzled all those present at Friday’s gala opening night for the Third World Film Festival of Bangkok. Polanski was presented with the Lotus Award for a lifetime achievement in film by social activist and Bangkok Senator Mechai Viravaidya on behalf of the organisers.

Over 600 directors, producers, scriptwriters and stars from abroad, as well as the local glitterati, descended on the Royal Chalermkrung Theatre on Charoenkrung Road for “Oliver Twist”, Polanski’s latest film.

Among the director’s VIP guests were some 40 children from Rajvithee Orphanage.

“Thank you very much. I’m glad to show my film at this festival in Thailand, one of the last countries that still have a smile on people’s faces, especially so glad to show to the group of kids,” Polanski said.

Famous directors in attendance included Adoor Goplalkrishnan from India, Ulrike Ottinger from Germany and Dan Wolman from Israel, kicking off with a bang the festival organised by The Nation featuring over 60 films and 30 shorts from 24 countries.

The screenings are being held at three venues: Grand EGV at Siam Discovery, EGV Metropolis at Big C Rajdamri and Major Cineplex at Central World Plaza.

The festival runs until October 24.

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