IFFI 2024: Celebrating Young Filmmakers and Global Cinematic Excellence in Goa
by EVENTFAQS Bureau Industry Watch | November 21, 2024 | News
International Film Festival of India Government of India National Film Development Corporation
The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), organized collaboratively by the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (Government of India), the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), and the Government of Goa through the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG), is scheduled to take place from November 20 to 28, 2024, in the scenic state of Goa. This year’s festival promises to be a grand celebration of cinema, spotlighting diverse narratives, innovative voices, and fostering cultural exchange.
Theme for IFFI 2024: “Young Filmmakers – The Future is Now”, aligns with Union Minister of Information and Broadcasting Shri Ashwini Vaishnaw's vision to highlight the potential of young filmmakers in shaping the creative future.
At a press conference held at the IFFI Media Centre, several dignitaries shared insights into the festival. These included Dr. Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa; Delialah Lobo, Vice Chairman of ESG; Shri Prithul Kumar, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting and Managing Director of NFDC; Vrunda Desai, Joint Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting; and Smita Vats Sharma, Director General of PIB. Senior officials from PIB and ESG were also present.
Highlights:
1. Sky Lantern Competition: Entries will be showcased along the IFFI parade route, with cash prizes for participants. The parade is set to take place on November 22, from the ESG office to Kala Academy.
2. Film Lineup: The festival will feature 180 international films from 81 countries, alongside a special segment showcasing 14 Goan films to celebrate local talent and culture.
3. Enhanced Accessibility: Free transport facilities will be available for travel across festival venues. Additionally, six more screens and a 45% increase in screening theatres will accommodate the growing number of film enthusiasts.
4. Australian Film Pavilion: Featured in the Film Bazaar, this pavilion will deepen international collaboration.
5. Collaboration with Influencers: Partnerships with Google and MyGov will bring YouTube influencers into the festival’s fold.
6. Record Delegate Registrations: With 6,500 delegates registered, there is a 25% increase from the previous year.
7. CMOT Section Growth: The CMOT section has received a record 1,032 entries this year, nearly doubling last year’s 550 entries.
8. Press Tour and Media Engagement: A press tour will offer journalists an in-depth understanding of the film industry, while regional representation in media has been strengthened. Out of 840 media applications received, 284 are from Goa. Media releases will also be issued in regional languages, including Konkani.
Renowned film personalities gracing the event include Vidhu Vinod Chopra, A.R. Rahman, Vikrant Massey, R. Madhavan, Neil Nitin Mukesh, Kirti Kulhari, Arjun Kapoor, Bhumi Pednekar, Rakul Preet Singh, Nushrratt Bharuccha, Sanya Malhotra, Ileana D'Cruz, Boman Irani, Pankaj Kapur, Aparshakti Khurana, Manasi Parekh, Pratik Gandhi, Sai Tamhankar, Vishnu Manchu, Prabhudeva, Kajal Aggarwal, Saurabh Shukla, and many more.
Ms. Smita Vats Sharma emphasized the festival's increasing popularity among media professionals and its strides in promoting regional representation. This year, media participation has surged, with applications reflecting strong interest from Goa and other regions of the country.
IFFI 2024 promises an unforgettable celebration of cinematic excellence, innovation, and collaboration, focusing on the vibrant voices of young filmmakers.
IFFI 2024 promises an unforgettable celebration of cinematic excellence, innovation, and collaboration, focusing on the vibrant voices of young filmmakers.