PANAJI
If you've ever wanted to travel the world through cinema, Goa will be the place to be from November 20 to 28 where the 57th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) promises exactly that.
This year's theme, "Stories Without Borders," is reflected in a line-up that stretches across continents, cultures and languages, according to the programme unveiled by the organisers at its customary curtain-raiser press conference on Friday.
The scale is impressive -- 159 international films from 86 countries, alongside 76 Indian films in 18 languages, all packed into nine days of screenings, discussions and industry events.
More than 7,000 delegates have already signed up, and that number is expected to grow.
Oscar-winning filmmaker Paweł Pawlikowski's Fatherland will open the festival. Alina Șerban's 'I Matter' takes centre stage midway through the event, while Anthony Chen's 'We Are All Strangers' will bring the curtain down.
This year, Spain joins as the Country of Honour, while Russia is the Partner Country.
What makes IFFI particularly exciting is its ability to mix established names with fresh talent as the festival will showcase works by 52 women filmmakers and 62 debut directors, underlining its attempt to bring new voices to the screen.
Seven films will compete for the Best Debut Feature Film award.
Among the new attractions this year dedicated sections on Animation and Films About Films have been introduced, offering film enthusiasts a chance to explore genres that are often underserved at mainstream festivals.
Beyond the screenings, Kala Academy will host 14 sessions featuring conversations and masterclasses. The Creative Minds of Tomorrow initiative will bring together 100 aspiring filmmakers across 13 disciplines, creating opportunities for learning and mentorship.
The business side of cinema will also find space at the 20th WAVES Film Bazaar, where filmmakers, producers and distributors can connect. Netflix joins as the Knowledge Series partner this year.
The international jury will be chaired by filmmaker Aanand L Rai and include Bogdan Muresanu, Maria Alejandra Rojas, Ratchapoom Boonbunchachoke and Sol Berruezo Pichon-Riviere.
The festival will also have a special focus on BRICS cinema, with India's “Ramayana” opening the segment.
Films from all 11 BRICS member countries, along with contributions from partner countries, will be showcased.
Two new segments, Animation and “Films About Films”, have been introduced this year, with five films each. The latter section will focus on the art and craft of filmmaking.
Perhaps the biggest surprise announced at the curtain raiser was a substantial increase in prize money. Awards in the international competition section have risen from Rs 1 crore to Rs 1.36 crore, with the coveted Golden Peacock for Best Film now carrying a cash prize of Rs 51 lakh.
Chief Minister Pramod Sawant said IFFI is Asia's oldest film festival and has evolved into an important platform over the years.
“Every November, Goa opens its door as a vibrant home for storytellers from around the world. Great stories bring the world together and once again, Goa is ready to roll out the red carpet for the global cinema”, he said.
For nine days, Goa will once again become India's cinematic capital but the proof of the pudding will, in the ultimate analysis, depend on whether audiences take their seats and let the stories begin.
