Ferzan Özpetek to head jury at Altın Koza film festival

Özpetek, the director of such critically acclaimed dramas as “Harem Suare,” “La finestra di fronte” (Facing Windows) and “Mine Vaganti” (Loose Cannons), will be in the southern province of Adana in September for the 19th edition of the festival, the Cihan news agency reported.

Özpetek unveiled his newest directorial effort, “Magnifica Presenza” (Magnificent Appearance), which is his ninth feature, in late March in Rome. The film opened in Turkish theaters in the first week of April.

The Altın Koza festival, organized by the Greater Adana Municipality, is set for Sept. 17-23 this year. Being the first major gathering on Turkey’s film festival slate each year, Altın Koza is a launch pad for promising filmmakers and usually the first showcase arena for established filmmakers’ newest efforts.

Adana Vice Mayor Zihni Aldırmaz said in a written statement on Tuesday that the municipality was doing its best to create a “perfect festival.” “We have a professional festival team. We believe the world of cinema will again show great interest in our festival, which is improving each year,” he said.