In a captivating display of storytelling prowess, AFI FEST 2017 played host to a remarkable event featuring Jacqueline Lyanga, Director of AFI FEST, alongside the powerhouse duo of Angelina Jolie and Loung Ung. The occasion, titled “Collaborative Storytelling: Angelina Jolie and Loung Ung,” unfolded on the stage of the Egyptian Theatre in Hollywood, California, on November 13, 2017, presented by Audi. From left to right, the trio embarked on a journey of daogue, insight, and shared experiences that left an indelible mark on the audience.
Jacqueline Lyanga, steering the ship as the Director of AFI FEST, set the stage for an evening that would delve into the intricacies of collaborative storytelling. Her role as a curator of cinematic experiences and a driving force behind the festival’s success added a layer of depth to the conversation, emphasizing the importance of platforms like AFI FEST in fostering creative collaboration.
Angelina Jolie, an acclaimed actress, director, and humanitarian, took her place on the stage, radiating elegance and poise. Her commitment to storytelling as a means of raising awareness and inspiring change was evident in every word she spoke. Jolie’s journey into filmmaking, marked by her directorial debut with the powerful film “First They Killed My Father,” provided a rich tapestry for exploration during the discussion.
Loung Ung, a resilient and influential author, shared the stage with Jolie, bringing her own unique perspective to the conversation. As the author of the memoir that inspired the film, Ung’s personal narrative served as the backbone of the collaborative effort. Her insights into the challenges and triumphs of translating a personal story into a cinematic masterpiece added depth to the daogue.
The conversation unfolded as a dynamic exchange of ideas, weaving together the threads of personal experiences, creative processes, and the collaborative spirit that brought “First They Killed My Father” to life. The trio engaged in a heartfelt discussion, touching on the transformative power of storytelling, the challenges of adapting real-life narratives for the screen, and the collaborative synergy that fuels the creative process.
As the event drew to a close, the audience was left with a profound appreciation for the art of collaborative storytelling and the impact it can have on shaping narratives that resonate globally. Jacqueline Lyanga, Angelina Jolie, and Loung Ung had not only shared their insights but had also illuminated the collaborative spirit that makes AFI FEST a vital platform for filmmakers and storytellers.
In the hallowed halls of the Egyptian Theatre, the Collaborative Storytelling event at AFI FEST 2017 became a beacon of inspiration, reminding all in attendance that the convergence of talent, passion, and purpose can give rise to stories that transcend borders and foster a deeper understanding of the human experience.
