IFFI 2024 Celebrates Youthful Innovation and Global Cinema
VINOD BHAT
GOA, Nov 11: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is set to captivate audiences from November 20 to 28, 2024, in a vibrant celebration of global cinema. Recognized as one of the world’s foremost film festivals, comparable to Cannes, IFFI 2024 embraces the theme “Young Filmmakers – The Future is Now,” emphasizing the transformative potential of young creators in cinema.
Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, highlighted the event’s prestige on the global stage at today’s press conference, saying, “IFFI has become a landmark event not just for India but internationally.” With a remarkable influx of international film submissions, IFFI 2024 continues to expand its global reach, showing the festival’s dedication to cinematic diversity.
Key Announcements and Themes
This year’s theme underscores a focus on young talent, with IFFI introducing several new awards and sections, such as the Best Indian Debut Director. This addition aligns with the Ministry’s Creative Minds of Tomorrow platform, expanding its support from 75 to 100 emerging filmmakers. According to Secretary, Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, Shri Sanjay Jaju, “Young filmmakers are pivotal in shaping India’s cultural narrative, and IFFI 2024 aims to be a guiding platform.”
IFFI’s Festival Director, the acclaimed filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, stressed the timeless power of storytelling. “In a rapidly evolving world, preserving the craft of storytelling is essential,” Kapur remarked, underlining IFFI’s mission to honor this artistry.
Honoring Legends and New Voices Alike
In tribute to cinematic heritage, IFFI 2024 will bestow the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award on renowned Australian director Philip Noyce, known for his impactful storytelling in films like Patriot Games and Salt. The festival also celebrates Indian cinema icons, including Raj Kapoor, Mohammed Rafi, and Akkineni Nageswara Rao, with screenings of restored classics under the National Film Heritage Mission.
Australia will be the Country of Focus, showcasing iconic Australian films and fostering collaboration between NFDC and Screen Australia.
Expansive Programming and New Initiatives
IFFI 2024 promises an impressive lineup of 270+ films from over 101 countries, including 180+ international films. The festival features 15 world premieres, 3 international premieres, and 40 Asian premieres, marking a historic year for international representation. The Asia premiere of Better Man, Michael Gracey’s biopic on pop star Robbie Williams, will kick off the festival.
IFFI has also introduced curated international programming sections, such as Rising Stars, Mission Life for eco-conscious cinema, and the Treaty Country Package in collaboration with the British Film Institute. The Women in Cinema section will amplify the contributions of female filmmakers, furthering IFFI’s commitment to inclusivity.
In addition, a dedicated “IFFIesta” entertainment zone will feature an immersive blend of music, films, and culture, aiming to engage and inspire younger audiences.
Industry Engagement and the Creative Minds of Tomorrow
With a record-breaking 1,032 entries for the Creative Minds of Tomorrow, IFFI reaffirms its support for aspiring filmmakers in 13 key crafts. For the first time, 100 participants will join, selected through rigorous competition. To enhance skill-building, more than 25 masterclasses and panel discussions will be led by industry legends, including AR Rahman, Shabana Azmi, Mani Ratnam, and international guest Philip Noyce.
South Asia’s largest film market, the Film Bazaar, will run alongside IFFI, bringing together 350+ film projects and featuring workshops, pitching sessions, and an expanded Knowledge Series.
