ULSAN, South Korea – The 10th Ulsan Ulju Mountain Film Festival (UMFF), scheduled to run from September 26th to 30th, is poised to redefine its identity, moving beyond a conventional film screening event to become a landmark cultural celebration for the entire family. With a decade of history, the festival has curated a diverse array of programs aimed at engaging audiences from all walks of life, from toddlers to the elderly, under the new slogan, "Let's Climb Together, the Mountain of Film."

This year's festival will place a strong emphasis on family-friendly content. The popular "Together" section will screen 15 films, including animated shorts and feature-length dramas from around the globe. To foster a deeper connection between creators and their audience, seven of these screenings will be followed by special Q&A sessions with the directors or actors, offering a unique glimpse into the filmmaking process. Selections span continents, featuring the heartfelt Czech animation "To Home," the Korean production "Spidy!," and the American coming-of-age story "The Girl Who Climbed the Mountain," ensuring a rich and varied cinematic experience for all.

Beyond the silver screen, the festival's organizers have crafted an immersive environment with a variety of hands-on and performance-based activities. The creative theater group Samsepan will present a new stage play, "With the Mountain, With the Family. Let's All Have Fun!", at the Ulf Cinema. This theatrical piece tells the enchanting tale of a squirrel's quest to bring life back to a withered tree, a narrative designed to resonate with both young and old.

Interactive learning and play are also at the heart of the UMFF experience. Astronomy enthusiasts can join the 'Astral' club for "People Who Observe the Moon," a guided tour of the night sky's constellations and lunar phases. During the day, the "People Who Observe the Sun" program will use electronic telescopes for a safe view of sunspots, blending scientific education with a sense of wonder. Other unique workshops include crafting mountain tent mood lamps and a cultural exchange program where attendees can learn the Nepalese alphabet and traditional songs. For the adventurous, "Ulju Climbing Day" provides a chance to safely try mobile and tree climbing, while the "Autumn Playground with Sherpa Papa" offers a range of family-oriented physical challenges.

This expansion of offerings marks a significant milestone in the festival's history. A UMFF official noted, "Our 10th anniversary is a testament to our evolution. We have used our expertise to create programs that are not just for film lovers, but for anyone who seeks to share a meaningful experience with their family. The festival is now a holistic cultural event, a place where memories are made." The 10th Ulsan Ulju Mountain Film Festival promises to be an unmissable event, celebrating not just the art of film, but the joy of family and shared discovery.