The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) was officially inaugurated on November 20 in Goa, with Chief Minister Pramod Sawant highlighting the growing global significance of the festival. Speaking at the event, Sawant emphasized that each year, IFFI continues to reach new heights, strengthening the bond between the festival and Goa. He welcomed both national and international guests, noting that the festival has become an eagerly anticipated event on the global cultural calendar. “As always, we upgrade the infrastructure to ensure the success of this prestigious festival,” he added.
The festival will run until November 28, featuring a diverse range of films from around the world. This year, IFFI has received a record 1,676 submissions from 101 countries, reflecting its increasing international stature. Over 180 films from 81 countries will be showcased, including 16 world premieres, 3 international premieres, 43 Asian premieres, and 109 Indian premieres. With celebrated titles and award-winning films, the festival promises to make a lasting impact on audiences.
To ensure ease of access for delegates, free transport facilities will be provided to travel across the festival venues. Additionally, a special segment dedicated to Goan films will screen 14 films, celebrating local talent and culture. The festival will also feature the ‘Sky Lantern’ competition along the route of the IFFI parade, where cash rewards will be awarded to participants. The parade will take place on November 22, traveling from the ESG office to Kala Academy.
The theme of IFFI 2024, “Young Filmmakers: The Future is Now,” highlights the importance of emerging voices in shaping the future of global cinema. In line with this theme, a new award for “Best Indian Debut Director” has been introduced to recognize young filmmaking talent. Five films from a pool of 102 submissions will compete for the award, which includes a certificate and a cash prize of Rs. 5 lakhs.
Australia has been named the Country of Focus for this year’s festival, with a dedicated film package and a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed between Screen Australia and the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) to foster collaboration between the two countries. The festival will open with Better Man, an Australian film by Michael Gracey, which explores the life of iconic British popstar Robbie Williams.
A highlight of the festival is the presentation of the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award to renowned Australian director Philip Noyce. Noyce, known for films such as Patriot Games, Clear and Present Danger, and Salt, will be honored for his exceptional contributions to cinema.
In the competition categories, the Best Feature Film Debut Director award will see five international and two Indian films competing for the Silver Peacock, along with a cash prize of 10 lakh Indian rupees. Additionally, the Best Web Series (OTT) Award, which saw a rise in submissions from 32 to 46 entries this year, will also feature a cash prize of 10 lakh rupees.
IFFI 2024 will champion diversity and inclusion with 47 films directed by women and 66 works by young and debut filmmakers, demonstrating the festival’s commitment to amplifying underrepresented voices. The Women in Cinema section will spotlight emerging female talent and the significant contributions of women in filmmaking.
This year, IFFI will also host the inaugural IFFiesta, an entertainment extravaganza celebrating the magic of film, music, dance, food, art, and interactive experiences. A Carnival Parade on November 22, themed around the “Journey of Indian Cinema,” will be a major part of the festivities.
(With inputs from ANI)
