29th Edition of IFFK Commences with Grandeur
The 29th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) commenced with a grand inauguration at the Nishagandhi Auditorium in Thiruvananthapuram. Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan emphasized the festival's political content, stating that it sets IFFK apart from other film festivals and makes it exceptional. "IFFK's global reputation as a champion of political and progressive content has earned it international fame," he added.
He opined that cinema should reflect diverse social realities and warned against corporate pressures influencing filmmaking. He also highlighted IFFK's role in showcasing the struggles of the oppressed, citing this year's Country Focus section featuring Armenian cinema.
The Chief Minister expressed pride in this year's all-women lineup of honourees, including Ann Hui and Shabana Azmi. He encouraged young filmmakers to use platforms like IFFK to explore emerging trends and break down prejudices.
He presented the Lifetime Achievement Award to Ann Hui, a pioneer in Hong Kong's New Wave cinema movement. Bollywood legend Shabana Azmi, celebrating 50 years in the industry, was also honored. Payal Kapadia will receive the Spirit of Cinema award for her film "All We Imagine As Light," which earned a Golden Globe nomination.
This year's inaugural film, "I Am Still Here," explored Brazil's military dictatorship. The festival's inauguration also featured a mesmerizing dance recital by Kerala Kalamandalam, along with the release of cinema-related publications. IFFK continues to serve as a global stage, merging artistic brilliance with socially relevant narratives, thereby cementing its status as one of the most politically conscious film festivals worldwide.
Distinguished guests, including Cultural Affairs Minister Saji Cherian, Education Minister V. Sivankutty, and Food and Civil Supplies G.R. Anil, KSFDC Chairman Shaji N Karun, film veteran Madhupal, as well as International Jury Chairperson Agnes Godard and Festival Curator Golda Sellam graced the event.
Minister for Cultural Affairs Saji Cherian presided over the event, which opened with a dance performance titled Ende Keralam, presented by Kerala Kalamandalam. Education Minister V. Sivankutty, Food and Civil Supplies G R Anil, Kerala State Chalachithra Academy (KSCA) Chairman Premkumar, Director of Cultural Affairs Divya S Iyer, Kerala State Film Development Corporation Ltd. (KSFDC) Chairman Shaji N. Karun, film veteran Madhupal as well as International Jury Chairperson Agnes Godard and Festival Curator Golda Sellam graced the event.
