India, Sept. 10 -- Acclaimed documentary filmmaker and jury member Keiko Bang on Kashmir's film potential, Asia's rising media influence, and why storytellers must keep creating through times of conflict.

This is Jammu and Kashmir's first major international film festival, and you have attended many worldwide. What is your take on the quality and setup of this event?

It's too early to evaluate the full lineup, but the location is spectacular-unlike anything I have seen in India-and the hospitality is incredibly warm. It has been a fantastic experience.

The jury is evaluating 135 films from 40 countries. What does that range tell you?

Every festival brings a distinct collection. It will be fascinating to see what the selection committe...