The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals, officially commenced on November 20 in the scenic coastal paradise of Goa with a grand opening ceremony, reported the Press Information Bureau (PIB). Embracing diversity and creativity, this year’s edition of the festival offered a spectacular and immersive lineup of films, showcasing the richness of cultures, perspectives, and narratives from across the globe. The nine day film festival began with the international premiere of Catching Dust, by award-winning British filmmaker, Stuart Gatt.
Legendary Bollywood actress, Madhuri Dixit, was honoured with ‘Special Recognition for Contribution to Bharatiya Cinema’ Award by Union Minister for Information & Broadcasting and Youth Affairs & Sports, Anurag Singh Thakur along with MoS Information & Broadcasting, Dr. L. Murugan, and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant during the inaugural function.
Anurag Thakur, in his address at the inauguration ceremony said that the power of cinema is incredible and throughout its history, cinema has captured and chiseled ideas, imagination and innovation such that it forms the driving force for peace, progress and prosperity in a world which is increasingly distressed with division.
Highlighting several significant initiatives taken by the Government of India to augment the Media & Entertainment Sector in the country, the Minister expressed the Prime Minister’s aim to make India the most sought-after destination for film-shooting and post production backed by the talent of the youth and children and the innovation of industry leaders. The Minister added that the Cinematograph (Amendment) Bill, 2023, has received approval from both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha. ‘‘This legislation not only broadens the legal framework, shifting its focus beyond censorship to encompass copyright protection but also introduces rigorous measures against piracy with focus on anti-piracy measures to ensure that the hard work and dedication of filmmakers does not go to waste’’, the Minister said.
Referring to the recently concluded G20 summit, the Union Minister said that the world witnessed India’s multifaceted and multi-layered development model based on development, diversity and democracy. Akin to India’s approach during the G20 presidency, Thakur noted, the main concept and theme of the 54th International Film Festival of India is rooted in the idea of “Vasudeva Kutumbakam,” which embodies the essence of peaceful coexistence where the world is one family.
Making a major announcement, the Union Minister announced an increase in the incentive for foreign film production in India from 30 percent to 40 percent of the expenditure incurred, with a raised limit from Rs 2.5 Crore to Rs 30 Crore, exceeding 3.5 million US Dollars, and an additional 5 percent percent bonus for Significant Indian Content (SIC). The Minister said, “Given India’s size and vast potential there was a need for a higher incentive to attract medium and big-budget international projects”, and added “this paradigm shift in incentivizing film production serves as a testament to India’s commitment and support for artistic expression and reinforces our position as a preferred destination for cinematic endeavors.”
The Union Minister also announced that, for the first time, a recruitment drive will be held under 75 Creative Minds of Tomorrow programme, opening up doors to limitless opportunities for their blossoming talents and career trajectories. Started in 2021 and now in its 3rd edition, 75 young filmmakers have been selected from 19 states, including remote areas like Bishnupur, Jagatsinghpur, and Sadarpur out of nearly 600 entries across 10 categories.
Announcing many ‘firsts’ in the 54th edition of the festival, Anurag Thakur said that for the first time and from here on, IFFI will bestow an award titled, “Best Web Series (OTT) Award” which will acknowledge and honour the transformative role of original content creators in India, celebrating their contributions to employment and innovation. A total of 32 entries have been received in 10 languages from 15 OTT platforms for Best Web Series (OTT) Award.
The IFFI has augmented the scope of Film Bazaar by introducing a well-curated “VFX & Tech Pavilion” to showcase the latest innovations from the cinema world, and a documentary section to its coproduction market to support non-fiction storytelling, mentioned the Union Minister.
This year, for the first time, Cine-Mela will be held, showcasing an extravagant celebration of India’s rich diversity through regional films, food, music, culture and more.
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A Restored Classics Section featuring seven world premieres of the meticulously restored masterpieces by NFDC/NFAI under the National Film Heritage Mission (NFHM) from the damaged celluloid reels of the Indian Classics has also been introduced.
The Minister said that inclusivity remains a guiding principle for 54th IFFI, as all venues for this year’s festival will be equipped with facilities catering to the specially-abled. Four special screenings for Divyangjan delegates with embedded audio descriptions and sign language provisions, has been added.
The Minister also announced the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award for 2023 – Hollywood actor-producer from the United States Michael Douglas. The award will be conferred on him during the Closing Ceremony. With over 50 years in the film and television industry, Michael Douglas has received 2 Oscars, 5 Golden Globe Awards, a Primetime Emmy Award, and countless other honours.
Union Ministers of State for Information & Broadcasting L. Murugan and Union Minister of State for Ports, Shipping and Waterways, Tourism Shripad Yesso Naik were also present at the inaugural function.
IFFI will play a key role in promoting Goa as a film friendly destination: Goa Chief Minister
Addressing the audience at the inaugural function, Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa said that IFFI will play a key role in promoting Goa as a film friendly destination. “In recent years, the film industry of Goa has also grown by leaps and bounds and Konkani cinema has carved a place for itself at IFFI’’, he said. He said that for IFFI this year, out of 20 entries received under Goa section, the jury has selected seven films. The Chief Minister further added that Entertainment Society of Goa has floated expression of interest for setting up a film city in the state for the expansion of film making industry.
During the inaugural function, the jury members were also felicitated by the Union I&B Minister Anurag Thakur in presence of MoS Dr. L. Murugan and Goa Chief Minister Pramod Sawant.
For the next eight days, Goa will be coloured in the grandeur of one of Asia’s largest film festivals, informed the PIB. From gripping dramas to thought-provoking documentaries and avant-garde experimental films, IFFI 2023 is all set to captivate cinephiles and industry professionals alike. Renowned filmmakers, talented actors, and visionaries in the world of cinema will grace the festival, fostering discussions, collaborations, and a shared passion for storytelling.
