Announcing the Selection Committee of the 9th ANIMAFILM International Animation Festival!

We are deeply grateful and truly excited to introduce the experts who have shaped the competition program for this year’s festival. The selection process has now successfully concluded, and our committee has done an incredible job reviewing nearly 450 animated films from over 60 countries around the world.

Please meet the selection committee for the 9th ANIMAFILM International Animation Festival:

• Asmar Abbaszada – Film criticism graduate of Azerbaijan State University of Culture and Arts. Content Curator at KYNO and cinema podcast host.

• Elshen Jabrayilzade – One of the core members of the “KYNO” team. He uses his experience in content creation and copywriting to promote a love of cinema in Azerbaijan.

• Jeylan Amiraliyeva – Content Editor at KYNO and screenwriter. Her passion for cinema has driven her to actively engage in film festivals, creative communities, and film criticism.

• Leyla Novruzova – Lead Animator on the “Izzy and Piti“ series at ANİMAFİLM Studio, storyboarding artist, and film lover.

• Mirbaghir Ismayilov – Film director, screenwriter, storyteller, DOP, and film critic with a demonstrated history of working in filmmaking.

• Naina Vilchinskaya – Animator and rigger at ANİMAFİLM Studio. Having participated in various animation projects, she plans to explore the field of film criticism during the festival.

• Nazrin Akhundova – Art director of ANİMAFİLM Studio. Actively involved in animation and art communities, bringing expertise in visual storytelling, character design, and creative development.

• Nuray Aliyeva – Animation Designer at ANİMAFİLM Studio. Specializes in 2D animation with a focus on creating expressive, story-driven visuals and editing.

• Vafa Piriyeva – Content creator and media manager. Actively involved in various film communities with a strong interest in film criticism.

What’s next? The official selection of films for the 9th edition will be announced in the coming days. Stay tuned to our website and social media channels to be the first to see which films made the cut!