The NewImages Festival, an immersive cinema event, is prioritizing connection and community-building in its approach. Unlike traditional film festivals, NewImages aims to be a platform for creativity, collaboration, and connecting creators with audiences. The festival's mission is to expand its community and foster a sense of togetherness within the immersive ecosystem. Director Hsin-Chien Huang, who won the festival's top prize in 2020 for his film 'Bodyless,' will collaborate with French music producer Jean-Michel Jarre on a visual and musical project called 'The Eye and I.' Choreographer Blanca Li and filmmaker Stéphane Foenkinos, both former NewImages jury members, have gone on to win awards for their immersive works. The festival's current jury includes author and activist Amandine Gay, techno pioneer Molécule, and Sundance New Frontier curator Shari Frilot. NewImages is already assisting Philippe Cohen Solal on a transmedia piece for next year's event. The festival aims to move past existing models and not chase world premieres. It wants to be a platform for creativity, collaboration, and connecting creators with audiences. The Cannes Film Festival is set to launch its first immersive cinema competition next month. NewImages is considered an A-class festival and is the largest immersive dedicated market in the world. The festival is subsidized to attract creators, especially in Europe where government funds exist. The festival's hashtag is #NotAnotherFilmFestival. [8d03e6ec]