ITV

Category: Movies

  • Nina Lath’s film festival initiative Cinevesture makes major announcements

    Nina Lath’s film festival initiative Cinevesture makes major announcements

    MUMBAI:  You’ve got to hand it to Nina Lath. The former NFDC MD-turned-producer-turned festival organiser does not let anything get in her way. If she wants something, she goes out and gets it.

    Like she has done with her initiative Cinevesture which organised  the  inaugural edition of  the Cinevesture International Film Festival (CIFF).

    The festival is  back along with a market rebranded as *CinéV-CHD*, which will take place on 20-23 March 2025 in Chandigarh.

    Not just that: CIFF has also got into a relationship with the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA).

    Let’s have a bit of a recap of  the inaugural edition of CIFF. It garnered significant attention and hosted prominent Indian film personalities including Karan Johar, Boman Irani, Sudhir Mishra, Shekhar Kapur, and Richa Chadha.

    Under Cinevesture, Lath has also designed CineV to be a a series of film markets that are designed to facilitate interactions between film professionals, investors, and distributors.  These markets will serve as a hub for private investors and industry insiders to explore co-production opportunities, secure funding, and forge strategic alliances.

    CinéV-CHD 2025 marks the first such market. Registrations for it  will open from  14 January 2025.

    Starting in 2025, Cinevesture will partner with IFFLA, the leading south Asian film festival based in Los Angeles. The partnership, *CinéV-IFFLA*, aligns the mission of both entities to support innovative storytelling and foster global collaborations.

    This collaboration will integrate south Asian stories curated by Cinevesture for CinéV-IFFLA into IFFLA Industry Days along with IFFLA’s selected projects from north America.

    Industry Days, which takes  place during the annual festival, is a pivotal forum that connects bridges south Asian filmmakers with Hollywood producers, offering opportunities such as pitch competitions, panels, masterclasses, industry round tables and networking events.

    The twenty third edition of IFFLA is scheduled on 6-10 May  2025 in Los Angeles. Submissions for IFFLA’s pitch competition open on 3 December  2025 at www.indianfilmfestival.org.

    CineV-CHD and CinéV-IFFLA also mark the beginning of Cinevesture’s broader initiative to build a network for investor-creator collaborations in south Asia and the diaspora. These events will focus on linking filmmakers with potential partners to develop projects that align with market demands.

    Beyond film screenings, the festival will host a series of insightful conversations and panel discussions. These sessions will delve into various aspects of film making, including script writing, directing, producing, and distribution. Renowned industry experts will share their knowledge and experiences, providing valuable insights for aspiring filmmakers and industry professionals.

    Says Cinevesture founder & CEO Nina Lath: “Unlike other sectors , film production often presents a challenge for private investors due to its intangible nature and relatively short shelf life. Yet the passion for cinematic storytelling and potential for substantial returns makes it an enticing opportunity. With CinéV, our mission is to bridge this gap by connecting pre-vetted projects with credible producers and investors, aiming for  mutually beneficial outcomes for all involved. As we bring the second edition of our event to Chandigarh, we are excited about the growing momentum and are proud to collaborate with IFFLA, a festival that has earned the utmost respect in the Indian film industry.”

    Adds IFFLA founder Christina Marouda:  “The partnership with Cinevesture comes at the perfect time for IFFLA as it officially expands its twenty third year legacy and footprint into the development of south Asian focused content. We could not think of a better partner than Nina and her new venture to create an ecosystem of talented storytellers and attract the right investors for these curated projects. This filmmaker-investor curated track is a gap we’re filling in with this endeavor. I’m excited for the IFFLA and Cinevesture teams to be joining hands, and cannot wait to see the results of such a unique and timely collaboration.”

  • IFFI 2024: Gullu wins big in 48-hour short filmmaking challenge

    IFFI 2024: Gullu wins big in 48-hour short filmmaking challenge

    tireless yet unforgettable hours – this was the scene at Maquinez Palace today during the closing ceremony of Creative Minds of Tomorrow (CMOT), held in the Fifty fifth International Film Festival of India (IFFI).
    CMOT has emerged as a leading platform for discovering and nurturing India’s most promising young filmmakers. This year marked a significant milestone, with the program expanding to include 100 young talents across 13 filmmaking disciplines, a notable increase from the 75 participants and 10 crafts featured in previous editions. The initiative garnered an overwhelming response, receiving nearly 1,070 entries from across India, showcasing their talents in 13 film-related trades.

    A highlight of the event was the 48-Hour filmmaking challenge where participants, divided into five teams of 20 members each, created short films centred around the theme “Relationships in the Age of Technology”. The challenge took place from 21-23 November,  across 12 locations within a four-kilometer radius of Panjim, which tested the team’s creativity and resilience.

    ,
    This year, the winners of the 48-hour Filmmaking Challenge at CMOT were
             1.        Best Film: Gullu
                        Best Film (Runners-up): We Hear the Same Music
             2.       Best Director: Arshaly Jose (Gullu)
             3.       Best Script: Adhiraj Bose (Lovepix Subscription)
             4.       Best Actress: Vishakha Nair (Lovepix Subscription)
             5.       Best Actor: Pushpendra Kumar (Gullu)

    Arshaly Jose, who won the best director award, expressed her gratitude, saying,: “This achievement belongs to my entire team. The script was the true hero of our film, and the moment I read it, I knew we had something special. Working with this exceptional team has been an unforgettable experience.”

    The young talents were mentored by the previous year’s CMOT alumni who were invited as CMOT Champions – Chidananda Naik, Akhil Lotlikar, Subarna Dash, Akshita Vohra and Krishna Dusane. 

     Information and broadcasting  ministry secretary Sanjay Jaju said:  “To produce such exemplary films within 48 hours under immense pressure is an achievement in itself. Every participant here is a winner.” He further emphasized: “This year, we have dedicated IFFI to legends- of the past and of the future, represented by the youth of our country. Initiatives like CMOT, Film Bazaar, and the Red Carpet provide a gateway for aspiring filmmakers to realize their dreams.” 

    Actor Amit Sadh, also present at the ceremony, praised IFFI for bringing the film industry’s opportunities directly to young filmmakers and actors from across the nation. The event was graced by several dignitaries, including Neerja Sekhar, special secretary of the ministry of information and broadcasting; Prithul Kumar, joint secretary of broadcasting and MD, NFDC; Vrunda Desai, joint secretary of films,  and Apurva Chandra, former secretary of the ministry of I&B. Acclaimed writer and grand jury Member Samrat Chakraborty also attended the event. 

    As the winners were announced amidst an enthusiastic crowd, Shorts International founder & CEO Carter Pilcher lauded the participants, remarking, “the quality and content of the films produced this year are brilliant and outstanding.”

    Organised in collaboration with UK-based network Shorts International, the 48-hour filmmaking challenge offered a unique opportunity for young filmmakers to test their creativity, storytelling skills and teamwork under intense time constraints. Shorts TV also took on the task of the entire pre-production, production and post production of these films at CMOT. 

  • Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, and cast celebrate “Moana 2” world premiere

    Auliʻi Cravalho, Dwayne Johnson, and cast celebrate “Moana 2” world premiere

    Mumbai: Auliʻi Cravalho and Dwayne Johnson joined an illustrious lineup of stars, filmmakers, and special guests at the world premiere of Walt Disney Animation Studios’ “Moana 2”. The grand celebration took place at the picturesque Lanikūhonua Cultural Institute in Kapolei, Hawai‘i, paying homage to the Pacific cultures and traditions that form the heart of the Moana story.

    The evening opened with a spectacular cultural performance led by Tiana Nonosina Liufau, Kayla Faʻamaligi, and Polynesian creatives, honouring the vibrant heritage of the Pacific peoples. The event was graced by the presence of the film’s cast, including Auliʻi Cravalho (Moana), Dwayne Johnson (Maui), Hualālai Chung (Moni), Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda (Simea), and Gerald Faitala Ramsey (Tautai Vasa). Directors Jason Hand, Dana Ledoux Miller, and David G. Derrick Jr., along with producers Yvett Merino and Christina Chen, joined them, alongside celebrated songwriters Abigail Barlow, Emily Bear, and Opetaia Foa‘i, and composer Mark Mancina.

    Earlier in the day, Disney partnered with Make-A-Wish and Dwayne Johnson to create a once-in-a-lifetime experience for five wish kids and their families. Hosted at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, the families were Johnson’s personal guests for the Moana 2 premiere.

    In a separate event, Disney collaborated with the Starlight Children’s Foundation to bring joy to patients at Kapiʻolani Medical Center for Women & Children. Disney CEO Bob Iger joined the event, which featured Moana-themed hospital gowns, toys, and books. The initiative extended to four other paediatric care centres in Oʻahu, where patients enjoyed an exclusive early screening of Moana 2 through the Disney Movie Moments program.

    The sequel to Disney Animation’s beloved musical takes audiences on an epic new voyage. Reuniting Moana (Auliʻi Cravalho) and Maui (Dwayne Johnson), the story picks up three years after the first film, as Moana receives an unexpected call from her wayfinding ancestors. Alongside a crew of unlikely seafarers, she embarks on a daring adventure through the far seas of Oceania.

    The film also features Rachel House, Temuera Morrison, Nicole Scherzinger, and Rose Matafeo among its voice cast, with Khaleesi Lambert-Tsuda voicing Moana’s little sister, Simea. Directed by David Derrick Jr., Jason Hand, and Dana Ledoux Miller, and produced by Yvett Merino and Christina Chen, the film features music by Grammy® winners Abigail Barlow and Emily Bear, Grammy nominee Opetaia Foa‘i, and Grammy-winner Mark Mancina.

  • Disney+ Hotstar collaborates with Bhuvan Bam & Vidyut Jammwal for Marvel film

    Disney+ Hotstar collaborates with Bhuvan Bam & Vidyut Jammwal for Marvel film

    Mumbai: Disney+ Hotstar has unleashed an electrifying campaign for the OTT debut of Marvel Studios’ “Deadpool & Wolverine”, enlisting Bollywood star Vidyut Jammwal and YouTube sensation Bhuvan Bam to elevate excitement among fans. The dynamic duo brings a unique desi flair to the promotional efforts, amplifying the anticipation for this action-packed Marvel adventure, now available in Hindi, Tamil, Telugu, and English.

    Vidyut Jammwal, celebrated for his martial artistry and action prowess, resonated with the film’s intense energy and spectacular stunts. Sharing his enthusiasm, Jammwal said: “I’m someone who enjoys action films, Deadpool & Wolverine took me on a ride unlike any other. The action in this film is exactly why I love this genre—jaw-dropping stunts, epic visuals, and I’m excited to watch the bromance between Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman again. Wolverine has always been iconic for me and seeing him back in action with Deadpool is pure magic. What makes it even better is that it’s available in Hindi, Tamil, and Telugu, so Marvel fans get to enjoy all that action and energy in a way that feels even closer to home. It’s a ride you won’t want to miss!”

    Meanwhile, Bhuvan Bam brought his trademark humour and relatability to the campaign. Through quirky, fun videos, Bam infused a local flavour into the wild chaos of Deadpool and Wolverine’s adventure, encouraging fans to enjoy the blockbuster in a way that feels closer to home. Sharing his excitement on the film’s debut, he said, “I’ve always admired Ryan Reynolds for his sharp wit and perfect timing—he’s just unbeatable when it comes to delivering a punchline! Watching him as Deadpool team up with Wolverine’s raw intensity makes for an insane combo that has you hooked from start to finish. There’s everything from wild action and razor-sharp comedy to real camaraderie and superpowers that are just epic to watch. For fans like me who love seeing these larger-than-life heroes in our own language, this one’s a total treat. I can’t wait for everyone to dive into this desi-style blockbuster experience—it’s the perfect mix of masala and dhamaal!”

    Disney+ Hotstar left no stone unturned in amplifying the reach of “Deadpool & Wolverine” OTT launch. The campaign utilised platforms like PhonePe, Snapchat, and MCanvas, creating engaging and interactive experiences. From animated Deadpool & Wolverine content on PhonePe to custom Snapchat lenses immersing users in the Marvel universe, the promotions catered to a diverse audience and maximised visibility.

  • “Bastar – The Naxal Story” premieres on &pictures this weekend

    “Bastar – The Naxal Story” premieres on &pictures this weekend

    Mumbai: Prepare to embark on a journey of resilience, bravery, and unwavering patriotism as ‘Bastar – The Naxal Story’ premieres on &pictures on Saturday, 23 November, at 9:30 PM. Directed by Sudipto Sen and featuring Adah Sharma in a compelling lead role, the film sheds light on one of India’s most critical yet underexplored battles against the Naxal insurgency.  

    Set in the Bastar region, the gripping narrative follows a young tribal woman and an IPS officer, portrayed by Adah Sharma, as they combat the growing influence of radical ideologies and external interference. The story highlights the exploitation of local communities and the struggle to preserve India’s sovereignty, making it a tale of national pride and unity.  

    Sen shared his vision behind the film, stating, “This film isn’t just about conflict; it’s about the spirit of India’s people who rise to protect their nation, no matter the odds. Bastar – The Naxal Story is a tribute to every brave soul fighting for the nation’s integrity, and with its premiere on &pictures, I believe it will awaken a deep sense of pride and patriotism in every viewer.”

    Sharma reflected on her role, saying, ‘“Playing a part in this story has been a humbling experience. Bastar – The Naxal Story is a reminder of the sacrifices made by our jawans for the country we call home. I hope the premiere on &pictures inspires the audiences to think about the value of freedom and the lengths our bravehearts go to protect it.”  

     

  • Lady Nayanthara’s ‘Rakkayie’ teaser unveiled on her birthday

    Lady Nayanthara’s ‘Rakkayie’ teaser unveiled on her birthday

    Mumbai: In a grand celebration of the ‘Lady Superstar’ Nayanthara’s birthday, MovieVerse Studios (an IN10 Media Network company) and Drumsticks Productions, unveiled the captivating title teaser for their highly anticipated period-action drama, Rakkayie. This film marks a major milestone for both companies.

    Launched digitally, the teaser offers a glimpse into what to expect from this major feature and promises to showcase Nayanthara in an unprecedented action-packed role.

    Directed by debutant filmmaker Senthil Nallasamy, it offers a fresh and thrilling take on the period-action genre. The film’s title teaser that dropped today, has already caught the attention of fans and critics alike, generating tremendous excitement.

    “We are incredibly excited to see Rakkayie come to life and couldn’t be happier to be associated with the supremely talented Nayanthara on our maiden Tamil production. She has an exceptional ability to bring depth to every role she takes on and can’t wait to share her new avatar with her fans. For us, this is more than just a film; it is the start of a new chapter for our team and we look forward to collaborating with talented artists and storytellers to bring more such impactful narratives to life that are agnostic of language and geography. ” said IN10 Media Network managing director Aditya Pittie.

    The screenplay, blending intense drama with high-stakes action, is set to keep audiences on the edge of their seats. The film’s music will be composed by the well-respected and award winning composer Govind Vasantha, with cinematography by Gautham Rajendran who is set to bring the film’s period visuals to life, while Praveen Antony serves as editor to ensure a fast-paced, thrilling viewing experience.

    MovieVerse Studio CEO Vivek Krishnani added, “Rakkayie is a film that has been carefully crafted to push boundaries. We are proud to be producing this film, bringing together the powerhouse talent of Nayanthara and a wonderfully crafted story that is steeped in cultural ethos and will connect with the masses. We are happy to have partnered with Drumsticks Productions who have a successful legacy of creating compelling cinema and with our focus on promoting new talent we are excited to back the vision of talented debutant director Senthil Nallasamy who promised to deliver something completely unique and never seen before.”

    Drumsticks Productions CEO S. Vijayan shared his enthusiasm, saying, “Rakkayie is not just our 10th production; it also marks a wonderful start of our exciting journey with MovieVerse Studios. We are looking forward to it, and can’t wait to bring it to audiences soon. Nayanthara’s dedication to her craft and her body of work is unparalleled, and we believe this will be one of her most memorable roles.”

    With filming set to commence, further announcements regarding the full cast and additional details about the film will be made in the coming weeks.

  • EUFF 2024 concludes Delhi chapter with acclaimed French drama story

    EUFF 2024 concludes Delhi chapter with acclaimed French drama story

    Mumbai: The 29th European Union Film Festival (EUFF) concluded its New Delhi chapter with a grand finale featuring Jim’s Story (Le Roman de Jim), the acclaimed French comedy-drama by Jean-Marie Larrieu and Arnaud Larrieu. Adapted from Pierric Bailly’s novel, the film captivated audiences with its profound exploration of relationships and fatherhood, earning thunderous applause at the screening. This cinematic masterpiece, which premiered at the 77th Cannes Film Festival, provided a fitting end to a festival celebrating Europe’s cultural richness and its deep connections with India.  

    The New Delhi edition showcased 26 award-winning films in 31 languages, drawing packed audiences for screenings, masterclasses, and insightful conversations. Themes ranged from complex human relationships to self-discovery, reflecting the universal language of cinema. The festival, curated in partnership with the European Union and its member states, reinforced the power of storytelling in fostering cross-cultural dialogue.  

    Festival curator Veronica Flora expressed her gratitude, stating, “As we draw curtains on the New Delhi chapter of the 29th edition of the European Union Film Festival, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude and fulfilment. This festival has been a distinct exploration of diverse voices, cultures, and stories that transcend borders.” She encouraged audiences to join upcoming chapters in Kolkata and Hyderabad, adding, “The enthusiasm shown by everyone has been truly inspiring, transforming these screenings into immersive community experiences. As the New Delhi chapter concludes, we invite everyone to continue this journey in Kolkata and Hyderabad to seek out these cinematic gems, delve into their worlds, and embrace the diversity that enriches our lives.”  

    The festival’s New Delhi chapter featured films from Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Czechia, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Ukraine. These films presented a spectrum of stories, including “What a Feeling” (Austria), “Employee of the Month” (Belgium), and “How is Katia?” (Ukraine).  

    After its resounding success in Delhi, EUFF 2024 now travels to Kolkata (27 November–13 December) and Hyderabad (6–15 December). Cinephiles are invited to experience this thoughtfully curated festival, a bridge of art and diplomacy, and immerse themselves in the best of European cinema.  

  • Venus Productions join forces with Span Communications

    Venus Productions join forces with Span Communications

    Mumbai: Venus Productions joined forces with the creative agency Span Communications to produce a video campaign of five films for Madhya Pradesh (MP) Tourism. The first of the campaign features Pankaj Tripathi as the brand ambassador.

    The film showcases the best of MP under the direction of Ravi Jain – a seasoned director at Venus Productions. The campaign was overseen by filmmaker Vishal Bharadwaj, who has deep-rooted connections to the state. The film was shot in around 20 days including Gwalior, Ujjain, Orccha, Khajuraho and the jungles of Bandhavgarh, Kanha, Panna, Pench and Satpura.

    The film begins with a funny twist—Pankaj Tripathi struggling to act against a green screen, humorously showcasing the limitations of staged performances. This light- hearted setup transitions into breathtaking visuals of Madhya Pradesh’s rich offerings: the architectural marvel of Khajuraho, the spiritual essence of Ujjain, and thrilling wildlife adventures, among others. This dynamic approach, complemented by lyricist Irshaad Kamil’s poignant words, composer Abhishek Arora’s evocative score, and the powerful vocals of Divya Kumar, captures the audience’s imagination and evokes a profound wanderlust.

    Commenting about his experience, Tripathi said, “Madhya Pradesh is a treasure for nature and history lovers. This project is special because it brings together the region’s natural beauty and cultural heritage. Being part of this campaign feels like a journey into India’s heart. Dono Stree 1 & 2 ke alawa aur 5-6 films ki shoot maine MP main shoot kar chuka hoon aur ussi dohraan maine pura MP dekha hai, Har bar yaha bilkul ghar wali feeling aati hai.”

    Director Ravi Jain expressed his excitement, stating, “MP Tourism is one of the top brands in Indian advertising scene. Being an advertising director, this five – film campaign holds a special significance for me. And more so as I got the opportunity to work with the best of the best – Pankaj ji, Vishal Sir, Irshad ji and Abhishek Arora. It is a dream team and I am filled with gratitude for this project. For this particular film, we kept intact Pankaj ji’s persona unaltered. The film appeals to all ages as they see the real Pankaj Tripathi who they love in his films and in real. That along with the stunning visuals of the best of MP makes it a unique watch.”

    Reflecting on his experience, film-maker, creative director Vishal Bharadwaj mentioned, “I was delighted and thrilled to have my name associated with the beautiful state of Madhya Pradesh. We have put our hearts & minds on how best to capture the state’s charm and connect with the audience. Seeing the final film, it’s clear that our collaboration brought out something truly special!”

    Tourism department principal secretary and managing director of the Tourism Board managing director Sheo Shekhar Shukla commented, “Madhya Pradesh Tourism is globally renowned for its scenic locations and breathtaking landscapes. Our continuous endeavour has been to present the state’s iconic destinations with a distinct identity that resonates not just across India but internationally. This new TVC, brimming with vivid visuals, colour, and life, will play a pivotal role in drawing travellers to our beautiful state.”

    Narrating the creative journey, Span Communications founder & CEO Naresh Kheterpal. “MP is the heart of incredible India and its destinations are the heartbeats. Our strategy was to showcase the destinations in their full glory and ask tourists to come and feel it for real. To make this invitation to tourists engaging and impactful, Pankaj Tripathi was roped in. Pankaj is a perfect choice as he has shot for his various films in MP, knows the state well and his persona creates an interesting connection with the brand. This is just a beginning. A lot more interesting stuff is waiting to be unveiled and captivate the audiences.”

    Venus Production founding producer Anil Jain stated, “Unlike MP’s past metaphorical campaigns, this project captures the true essence of MP, shot directly on location. We assembled a dream team of passionate, skilled creators, all driven to bring this vision to life and honor the state’s breathtaking landscapes and vibrant culture.”

  • Netflix India promotes Vibha Chopra

    Netflix India promotes Vibha Chopra

    MUMBAI: Recently, she has been posting on Linkedin only when she gets a promotion. Two years ago, Vibha Chopra had put out an update on the professional site when she moved on from Amazon Prime Video to Netflix as head of Hindi film licensing in India.

    On 13 November,  once again she used the platform to  announce that she had been promoted in the Ted Sarandos-headed organisation. “Stoked to share that I am starting my new position as director – Hindi film licensing at Netflix, India,” she stated on Linkedin.

    Chopra has come a long way from the time she was heading global syndication and international film distribution at Zee Entertainment for two years. And prior to that the fitness enthusiast headed Zee Film Studios International in Mumbai for four years. Before that Chopra spent a good three years at Zee America as vice-president brand solutions and special projects. 
     

  • 15 Films to Compete for Golden Peacock at IFFI 2024

    15 Films to Compete for Golden Peacock at IFFI 2024

    MUMBAI: Fifteen films, showcasing powerful storytelling from around the globe, are set to compete for the coveted Golden Peacock at the Fifty fifth International Film Festival 2024 to be held in Goa next week.  This year’s line-up features a mix of 12 international and three Indian films, each selected for its unique perspective, voice and artistry.

    Presenting the best of global and Indian cinema, each of these films offers a unique take on human values, culture and the art of storytelling.

    The  Golden Peacock Jury is  led this year by Indian filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker and includes award-winning Singaporean director Anthony Chen, British-American producer Elizabeth Karlsen, Spanish producer Fran Borgia, and legendary Australian Film editor Jill Bilcock. Together, the jury will adjudicate winners in categories including best film, best director, best actor (male), best actor (female) and the special jury prize. The winning film will take home a prize of Rs 40 lakh along with one of the festival’s top honours.

    Here’s a glimpse of the remarkable nominations:
     
    1. Fear & Trembling (Iran)

    Two of Iran’s most respected women filmmakers, Manijeh Hekmat and Faeze Azizkhani, present a poignant tale about Manzar, an older woman grappling with fear and loneliness in a rapidly changing world in their film Fear and Trembling.
    This Iranian film is a world premiere in this year’s IFFI. It reflects on personal transformation amid societal shifts and depicts the challenges faced by women in the modern-day Iran. 
     
    2. Gulizar (Turkey)

    In her debut feature, Turkish writer-director Belkis Bayrak delves into the life of Gulizar, a young woman battling trauma and the societal expectations in her quest for independence. 
    Garnering attention across the festival circuit, the film has already premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival 2024 as well as the San Sebastián International Film Festival, 2024. 
     
    3. Holy Cow (France)

    French filmmaker Louise Courvoisier’s debut feature Holy Cow is a delightful coming-of-age comedy-drama that follows 18-year-old Totone, whose carefree life is turned upside down as he takes on responsibility for his younger sister. The film won the prestigious youth award in the  Cannes Film Festival, 2024.

    This charming film set in the mountainous region of the Juca in the western French Alps, portrays the turbulence of growing up and the responsibilities of adulthood faced by the main protagonist. 
     
    4. I am Nevenka (Spain)

    I Am Nevenka by Goya Award-winning director Iciar Bollaín is a bold story of a woman fighting society’s injustice in her own way. The film won the Euskadi Basque Country 2030 Agenda Award, at the San Sebastian International Film Festival held in 2024. 
    The film dramatizes the case of Nevenka Fernández, a member of the Ponferrada City Council, who in 2001 became the first woman in Spain to win a court case on sexual harassment against a high-ranking politician. 
    Inspired by true events, it chronicles the fight for justice and explores the larger societal and cultural implications of harassment and gender equality in Spain. 
     
    5. Panopticon (Georgia-USA)

    In Panopticon, Georgian-American director George Sikharulidze’s gripping debut feature, a young Georgian teen confronts questions of identity, morality, and self as he navigates his life. The film won the Ecumenical Jury – Special Mention, at Karlovy Vary 2024. 
    A poignant coming-of-age story, the film examines the challenges of growing up in a contemporary post-Soviet Georgian society. 
     
    6. Pierce (Singapore)

    Former national fencer and rising filmmaker of Singapore, Nelicia Low’s Pierce received the best director award at Karlovy Vary International Festival this year.
    A psychological thriller, the film delves into the complexities of family and sibling rivalry. Set in the high-stakes world of competitive fencing, the film follows two brothers as they struggle to balance their ambition. 
     
    7. Red Path (Tunisia)

    Prolific Tunisian theatre and cinema director and producer Lotfi Achour’s latest feature Red Path tells the story of Achraf, a young shepherd, as he navigates trauma, tradition, and personal loss in a hauntingly beautiful landscape. The film premiered at the prestigious Locarno International Film Festival in 2024. 
     
    8. Shepherds (Canada-France)

    One of the leading figures of the new Quebec cinema, Sophie Deraspea’s Shepherds is a visually stunning film on self-reinvention and the harsh realities of rural life.
    The film is her latest feature which won the Best Canadian Feature Film Award in the Toronto International Film Festival, 2024. 
    The film follows a Canadian copywriter who, seeking solace and a fresh start, moves to the French Alps to live life as a shepherd. But as he confronts the isolation and hardship of his new life, he must grapple with his past. Deraspe’s masterful direction compels the viewers to explore the ideas of human resilience and strength of character. 
     
    9. The New Year That Never Came (Romania)

    Award-winning Romanian writer and director Bogdan Mure?anu’s The New Year That Never Came takes viewers through the lives of six individuals during Romania’s 1989 revolution. The film won the Orizzonti Award for Best Film, and Special Mention: Authors Under 40 Award in the Venice International Film Festival, 2024. 
    A historical drama with a deeply personal story, Muresanu’s film weaves together political upheaval and human stories of resistance, loss and hope.  
     
    10. Toxic (Lithuania)

    In her debut feature film, Lithuanian filmmaker and screenwriter Saule Bliuvaite delivers a raw and haunting coming-of-age story of friendship amidst toxicity.  
    Toxic explores the complexities of adolescence, friendship, and self-destruction, as the filmmaker delves into the darker side of youth, winning critical acclaim for its portrayal of emotional turmoil and the pressures of growing up.

    The film won the Golden Leopard, Swatch First Feature Award, and Ecumenical Jury Prize at the 77th Locarno International Film Festival, 2024.
     
    11. Waves (Czech Republic)

    Czech actor, scriptwriter and director Jiri Madl’s Waves is his third feature film, and has been selected as the Czech Republic’s official entry for best international feature film at the ninety seventh Academy Awards.
    The film is a powerful historical drama set during the 1968 Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. The film revolves around a group of journalists risking everything to report the truth as their country’s freedom is in danger. 
     
    12. Who Do I Belong To (Tunisia-Canada)

    Who Do I Belong To, is noted Tunisian-Canadian filmmaker Meryam Joobeur’s debut feature. This is a high-octane yet poignant drama about a broken family. The film tells the story of a Tunisian woman, who is caught between her maternal love and her search for the truth when her son returns home from war and unleashes a darkness throughout their village. 
    The film premiered at the Berlin International Film Festival 2024. The film weaves a complex narrative of maternal love and personal sacrifice. Joobeur’s work has already garnered praise for its emotional depth and strong performances. 
     
    13. The Goat Life (India)

    In The Goat Life, national award-winning Malayalam film director Blessy tells the true story of an Indian migrant worker struggling to survive in the harsh desert of Saudi Arabia. 
    The film is an adaptation of the  best-selling Malayalam novel Aadujeevitham by the author, Benyamin, which is based on the real-life story of Najeeb, a Malayali immigrant labourer in the gulf.
    This gripping drama explores the themes of migration, survival and the human spirit amidst the adversities of life.
     
    14. Article 370 (India)

    Article 370, directed by the national award-winning filmmaker Aditya Suhas Jambhale, is a tense political thriller set against the backdrop of India’s tumultuous constitutional changes.  
    The story delves deep into the intricacies of Article 370, which granted special autonomy to Jammu and Kashmir. The film masterfully portrays the socio-political landscape of the region. The director expertly weaves a narrative of struggles of power and personal sacrifice in the film. 
     
    15. Raavsaheb (India)

    Raavsaheb is a much-anticipated Marathi crime thriller film directed by national award-winning filmmaker Nikhil Mahajan. This film is a world premiere in this year’s IFFI. Nikhil Mahajan’s crime thriller centres on the man-animal conflict in tribal lands and a quest for justice. The film is a gripping tale set in the tribal lands of India.

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