Panaji: The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is all set to begin in Goa from tomorrow aiming to bolster its reputation on the global cinema map. This year, Goa celebrates 20 years of being the host for IFFI.
Ministry of Information & Broadcasting, in collaboration with the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) and the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), is set to host the festival from November 20 to 28.
This year, IFFI will feature over 270 films from 101 countries, including 180 international films from 81 nations. The festival will open with Better Man by Australian director Michael Gracey, with Australia as the Country of Focus.
The theme of IFFI 2024 focuses on ‘Young Filmmakers’, recognising their potential in shaping the future of creativity.
The initiative of the ‘Creative Minds of Tomorrow’ platform has been enhanced to support 100 young talents from 75 in the previous editions. Altogether 400 Young film students, from Film Schools across the country, are being facilitated by the Ministry to attend IFFI.
A new section and award of Best Debut Indian Director has been instituted, to recognize the young filmmaking talent across India.
A special section on Goan films will showcase 14 local productions, celebrating regional talent and culture. Additionally, a “Sky Lantern” competition will be part of the IFFI Parade on November 22, running from the ESG office to Kala Academy.
Renowned Australian director Philip Noyce will receive the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Awar
The festival’s International Competition section will include 15 feature films, with awards for Best Film (Golden Peacock, Rs 40 lakh), Best Director, Best Actor, and more. The Indian Panorama will highlight 45 Indian films, including Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (Hindi) and Ghar Jaisa Kuch (Ladakhi).
Accessibility and inclusivity will take center stage for the first time, with venues equipped for differently-abled individuals. Features like audio descriptions and sign language interpretation will make screenings more accessible.
IFFI 2024 also includes the debut of IFFiesta, an entertainment zone with music, dance, food, and exhibitions celebrating Indian cinema’s centennial icons like Raj Kapoor and Mohammed Rafi.
The festival’s Film Bazaar, South Asia’s largest film market, will showcase over 350 projects, bringing together filmmakers and collaborators from around the world.
