The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) commenced in Goa with a star-studded opening ceremony on 20 November 2024, celebrating the magic of storytelling and the unifying power of cinema.
Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant, Art of Living founder Sri Sri Ravi Shankar, and Union Information and Broadcasting Secretary Sanjay Jaju officially inaugurated the nine-day extravaganza. Hosted at the Dr Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, the event witnessed captivating dance performances, inspiring speeches, and tributes to cinematic legends.
Australia was announced as this year’s Country of Focus, marking a new chapter in Indo-Australian creative collaboration.
Australian Deputy High Commissioner Nick McCaffrey highlighted this cultural partnership on X, lauding the performance by the Australian First Nations Jannawi Dance Clan:
“Making First Nations storytelling front and centre stage in India — absolutely loved it!”
The festival opened with Michael Gracey’s “Better Man,” a biographical drama on pop icon Robbie Williams, which earned rave reviews for its compelling narrative and music.
Festival Director Shekhar Kapur, known for films like Masoom and Mr India, passionately underscored the importance of storytelling in bridging divides:
“Stories are how we relate, perceive, and understand each other… In a polarised world, film festivals like IFFI are crucial.”
Union Minister Ashwini Vaishnav emphasised India’s burgeoning creators’ economy in a video address, while Prasar Bharati announced its new digital platform, Waves. The revival of the iconic Fauji series was also unveiled, paying homage to the show that launched Shah Rukh Khan’s career.
IFFI 2024 offers a spotlight on Australian cinema with a showcase of seven diverse films, a masterclass by Oscar-winning cinematographer John Seale, and a dedicated Australian Co-Production Day. Representatives from Screen Australia and Ausfilm are promoting Australia’s appeal as a filming destination, supported by the Indo-Australian co-production treaty ratified last year.
Australian and Indian filmmakers are set to collaborate on projects like Home Before Night, selected for Film Bazaar’s Co-Production Market. The treaty enables access to financial incentives, fostering innovative storytelling between the two nations.
With over 6,500 delegates registered—a 25% increase from last year—IFFI 2024 promises an inclusive celebration of cinema. This year’s festival also expanded its reach, adding six new screens and 45% more screening venues, ensuring accessibility for film enthusiasts across Goa.
Running until 28 November, IFFI 2024 promises a rich blend of culture, innovation, and global storytelling, uniting filmmakers and audiences under one cinematic roof.
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