Sightsavers film shortlisted for Cannes World Film Festival award

A Sightsavers film about childhood visual impairment has been shortlisted in the ‘Best health film’ category at the Cannes World Film Festival.

The short film ‘Noor’ aims to raise awareness about the impact of good eye care on a child’s development. Set in Pakistan, it tells the story of a girl called Noor who is struggling to learn due to poor vision. Encouraged by a friend and teacher, Noor gets her eyes tested at school and receives a free pair of glasses.

Produced by Sightsavers Pakistan and partners, the film is based on our school health programme, which screens children across Asia and Africa for eye conditions and other health problems. Teachers are trained to examine pupils and can refer them to optometrists for treatment such as spectacles. The film also challenges the stigma around wearing glasses.

Sightsavers Pakistan country director Munazza Gillani said: “Social drama films do more than raise awareness, they draw you into the story and the lives of the characters. They can soften and dissolve barriers and prejudices, creating space for change to take place in the real world.

“Good eye health equals opportunity and has a ripple effect on children, improving education, wellbeing, economics and health outcomes. We hope that this film will encourage the government, parents and teachers to recognise the importance of eye health and play their role in managing and addressing unaddressed refractive errors.”

The Cannes World Film Festival, which showcases the best international films, documentaries, music videos and commercials, is expected to announce the monthly winner in the ‘Best health film’ category later in February. All monthly winners get to compete for the festival’s annual prize in June. You can watch Noor for free on YouTube.

Update: On 28 February 2023, Noor was announced as the monthly winner for January in the Best Health Film category.