Rahway, NJ – August 24, 2024
The UCPAC Festival, initiated by the Union County Performing Arts Center in Rahway, New Jersey, will celebrate its inaugural edition on August 24, 2024. This new festival aims to establish a legacy of cultural significance and consistent success in the international film festival circuit.
Ashkan Khoshsorour, director of the short film “Deception,” is among the filmmakers selected for the International Independent Short Films category at the UCPAC Festival. Competing with six other short films, Khoshsorour underscores the festival’s authentic heritage and asserts that the credibility of any festival lies in the reputation of its organizers. He believes, “A festival’s prestige is built on the integrity of its organizers. With consistent and regular hosting, UCPAC has the potential to evolve into a top-tier festival.”
In a landscape filled with numerous fake, online, and seasonal festivals that lack substantial backing, UCPAC stands out as a beacon for filmmakers. It offers a valuable platform for creative minds to converge, exchange ideas, compete, and showcase emerging talents. Such a festival can significantly contribute to the cultural branding of Rahway, much like how renowned festivals have elevated the cultural profiles of their host cities. Therefore, municipal bodies should actively support these cultural events.
“Deception” presents a unique perspective on migration, focusing on the critique of fake heroism in social media. The film’s synopsis reveals that Mani, a young Iranian man, faces numerous challenges on his quest to migrate to England.
It is worth noting that Khoshsorour’s previous short film, “Cycle,” was selected and awarded at over 30 prestigious festivals worldwide, underscoring his continued impact on the global film circuit.
The UCPAC Festival promises to be a significant cultural event for Rahway and an essential platform for the discovery and celebration of new filmmaking talent.