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  • With a record 12,000 delegates, 314 films, MIFF closes on a high

    With a record 12,000 delegates, 314 films, MIFF closes on a high

    Mumbai: With a record-breaking attendance of 12,000 delegates and the screening of 314 films, the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) concluded on a high note. This edition of MIFF witnessed unprecedented delegate participation, with enthusiasts attending various screenings, panel discussions, and masterclasses. Films from 59 different countries were showcased during the festival, which not only took place in Mumbai but also extended to venues in Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Pune for the first time.

    NFDC festival director and MD Pritul Kumar expressed his satisfaction with the overwhelming response to this year’s MIFF. “The remarkable turnout demonstrates the growing interest in documentaries, shorts, and animation among a dedicated audience. The success of MIFF should be attributed to robust programming, setting new benchmarks for future editions.“

    With a host of eminent personalities like Richie Mehta, Santosh Sivan , Daniela Volker, Ketan Mehta, Tushar Hiranandani, Alphonse Roy, T.S. Nagabharana among others attending the festival, the 18th MIFF was also lauded for its excellent organization and venue design ensuring accessibility and protection from the monsoon rains in Mumbai. Special measures, such as providing training to volunteers for attendees needing special assistance, and installing ramps across the festival campus, enhanced the overall experience for all participants.

    Working with the not for profit organisation Svayam, volunteers and teams at the festival were made to undergo special training to better equip them with patrons that needed special attention. Venues were also made accessible with the instillation of ramps across the festival campus.

    There were also special screening for people with hearing and visual impairments.

    “I think the selection of films was very good and many of the documentaries were insightful. It was especially good because everything was within the same campus and we could book on the app, rush to the next screening, eat and also discuss with our friends without stepping out or getting wet” said one of the delegates.

    The festival this year also digitised the screening bookings and its badge registration , to further facilitate accessibility and time efficiency. Furthermore stalls from various countries, Indian states, start ups and the skill council allowed for interested audiences and delegates to interact, learn and engage.

    The first ever docu bazaar that was put up, saw 108 projects in Work-in-progress and Viewing Room, while for co production there were 16 projects selected from 63 entries. 15 producers interested in backing documentaries, shorts and animation were part of the docu bazaar this year.

  • 18th MIFF sees the Asia premiere of doc film The Commandant’s Shadow

    18th MIFF sees the Asia premiere of doc film The Commandant’s Shadow

    Mumbai: As part of the ongoing Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF), the Asia premiere of the highly talked about documentary film ‘The Commandant’s Shadow’ directed by Daniela Volker was hosted at the festival.

    Walking the red carpet of the film were filmmaker Daniela Volker, Executive producer and creative entrepreneur Sajan Raj Kurup, Co/Executive producer Wendy Robins and festival director and MD, NFDC Prithul Kumar.

    The screening also saw industry members, Adman Prahlad Kakkar, actor- Producer Masumeh Makhija, Producer Succhanda Chatterjee and Shona Urvashi among others in attendance.

    With a wide release across the USA, the documentary follows Hans Jürgen Höss, son of Auschwitz’s Commandant Rudolf Höss, confronting his father’s terrible legacy for the first time and as he is introduced to Anita Lasker-Wallfisch, a Jewish survivor of the camp. Their historic meeting, eight decades later, in Anita’s London living room, alongside their children Kai Höss and Maya Lasker-Wallfisch, delves into their very different hereditary burdens and raises questions about love, guilt, and forgiveness.

  • Accessibility takes centre Stage at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival

    Accessibility takes centre Stage at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival

    Mumbai: In a special effort to take the joy of films to diverse sections of the society at the 18th Mumbai International Film Festival 2024, NFDC has partnered with Svayam, a not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting accessibility and inclusion, to make the MIFF venue accessible for all the cinephiles. Apart from this, there will be a special screening of four Divyangjans films/episodes on 19 June 2024 to allow persons with Disabilities to also enjoy films at MIFF 2024.

    Through structural and logistic changes and identifying the best practices for accessibility standards, the partnership with Svayam is striving to make the NFDC -FD premises which is also the venue for the 18th MIFF, disabled-friendly. This initiative marks the first time in MIFF’s history that such paramount importance has been placed on venue accessibility, setting a new standard in the realm of film festivals.

    As the Accessibility Partner for the upcoming week-long event, Svayam has made several efforts to ensure that MIFF 2024 is truly inclusive and accessible to all. The organisation conducted comprehensive accessibility audits of the festival venue at NFDC – Films Division premises, providing tailored solutions to enhance accessibility in accordance with universal best practices.

    For the first time ever, the entire festival team will be sensitised and trained to ensure a culture of inclusivity and empathy. “This time we will not only ensure the venue is accessible to the Divyangjans but also ensure the volunteers engaged in the festival are also trained appropriately to handle the differently abled at the festival.” says Festival Director, Shri. Prithul Kumar.

    Svayam also conducted an exclusive sensitization training session at the MIFF premises, on 13th June 2024. The training session engaged 120 plus organisers, including senior officials, stakeholders, volunteers, and staff members. The session focused on fostering awareness and understanding of proper etiquette and terminology to help the team especially when interacting with film lovers and attendees with reduced mobility, including individuals with hidden disabilities, pregnant women, children, and senior citizens.

    The sensitization training session covered a range of topics, including: Understanding Disability; Difference between Disability and Impairment; Understanding 21 disability as per RPWD ACT 2016; Models of Disabilities; What is Barrier free environment? Types of barriers with examples; Disability Etiquettes; Using right Terminology.

    Additionally, participants engaged in simulation exercises to gain firsthand insight into the barriers faced by individuals with reduced mobility, followed by interactive user group discussions to share experiences and insights.

    “Accessibility is a fundamental right, and we at Svayam are committed to ensuring spaces are welcoming to all. Our collaboration with MIFF 2024 is a significant milestone in promoting inclusivity within the film festival landscape.” Ms. Sminu Jindal, Founder-Chairperson of Svayam, expressed her enthusiasm about the partnership. “By prioritizing accessibility, we are not only opening doors for individuals with reduced mobility but also paving the way for a more inclusive future where diversity is celebrated with dignity.”

    Taking the effort forward, some screening at the 18th MIFF 2024 have also been designed in a manner that will allow persons with disabilities to watch and enjoy film. “The 18th Mumbai International Film Festival showcases Accessible Films. There will be films with Indian Sign Language and closed captions for the audience who have hearing disabilities and also films with audio description for the visually challenged. Also there will be a film ‘Cross Over’ with live dance using the Indian Sign language,” stated Festival Director, Shri. Prithul Kumar at the Curtain Raiser Press Conference for 18th MIFF 2024.

    The special screening of Divyangjan Films will also be showcased at the Festival to allow persons with Disabilities to also enjoy films at MIFF 2024. The films are-

     1.  THE CROSSOVER (ISL/English – 21 minutes) by Methil Devika

    The Crossover is a short film that captures a dance performance where the dancer seamlessly integrates the Indian Sign Language with the aesthetic sign language of Mohiniyattam – an Indian classical dance form of Kerala, to explicate the narrative.

    2. Little Krishna (English) with Indian Sign Language by Ish

    Episode 3: The Horror Cave (22 mins) and Episode 8: Challenge of the Brute (23 mins)

    When Lord Krishna was enjoying his childhood pastimes with his friends in the forest of Vrindavana, a demon named Aghasura, instigated by Kamsa, appears intending to kill them all. Also in the village of Vrindavana, one demon named Arishtasura terrorizes the inhabitants, prompting them to seek protection from Krishna. Krishna confronts the demons, effortlessly defeating them.

      3. Jay Jagannath (Hindi – 36 mins) by Shripad Warkhedkar

    Lord Jagannath, incarnated as a child named Jagan, and his devoted follower Balaram. It explores their adventures and incorporates folktales, blending mythology and friendship narratives.

    MIFF 2024’s commitment to accessibility underscores its dedication to fostering an inclusive environment where everyone can fully participate in the celebration of cinema. Joining hands with Svayam, MIFF sets a precedent for other festivals to follow, demonstrating that accessibility is not only achievable but essential for creating truly enriching experiences for all attendees.

  • Richie Mehta speaks on Poacher and conservation at 18TH MIFF

    Richie Mehta speaks on Poacher and conservation at 18TH MIFF

    Mumbai: The 18th edition of the Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) saw celebrated filmmaker Richie Mehta, the director of Delhi crime and most recently “Poacher” in conversation with an eminent journalist, talking about his journey of making both the shows.

    Speaking at a house-packed auditorium at NMIC premise in Mumbai, Mehta said that the true reason for backing the project was a larger cause than the conservation aspect the series highlighted. He also expressed that he is grateful that the cause was achieved.

    He also spoke about how his favourite part of making a show for him is the ‘research’…”My favourite part of the process is research because you are getting to know remarkable people, you get to see astonishing stories and that’s where I learn about everything.”

    He also spoke about how he was very particular about not using real animals. “There was no chance I was going to use real animals because then it defeats the whole purpose and the intention of the series…which means the technology has to be of a certain level to be able to do that and the artists are all from here (India) who have done that… for me, that is a great sense of pride.”

    When quizzed by the audience on the sort of content he would be keen on backing, he said that he is more keen on focussing on the script and the acting which formed the core and paid emphasis on pushing boundaries, using the leverage of one position to bring forth key issues. He also stated that he is currently researching being able to take the idea further, with a focus on ‘Big Cats’.

    On being asked if there was any fear while making Poacher, Mehta said “The only fear I had was, will I be able to fulfil my promise to the wildlife team.”

    Acknowledging his team behind the much talked about series, Mehta called on the team of Poacher present in the audience at the session. The in-conversation was followed by the red carpet screening of the series, with filmmaker Richie Mehta, MD, NFDC Shri Pritul Kumar and other dignitaries walking the red carpet.

    The 18th MIFF which commenced on the 15th, concludes on the 21st of June, 2024.  In a bid to make the festival accessible to discerning audiences across the country, special screenings have also been organised in Pune, Kolkata, Chennai and Delhi.

     

  • Women Filmmakers at Spotlight and a special package on Culture films at MIFF

    Women Filmmakers at Spotlight and a special package on Culture films at MIFF

    Mumbai: Celebrating the remarkable achievements of women filmmakers worldwide, this year’s MIFF is set to shine a spotlight on their contributions with a dedicated segment featuring films directed by women.

    In the special showcase titled “Asian Women Film,” MIFF will present five captivating films, each offering a unique perspective from talented women filmmakers. These include “American Dream” by Renee Shi and “Tequila Sunset” by Jinsui Song, both hailing from the United States, “Duet” by Ekin Ilkbağ and Idil Akkuş from Turkey, “Happy Independence Day” by Camila Sagyntkan from Kazakhstan, and “Triangle” by Zhino Hadi Hasan from Iraq.

    Each film brings its compelling narrative to the screen. “American Dream” pays homage to the victims of school shooting tragedies, while “Duet” follows the journey of two close friends and swimming duet partners aiming to qualify for the 2020 Olympics. “Happy Independence Day” delves into the search for purpose and identity after the loss of a loved one, while “Tequila Sunset” explores the adventures of 70-year-old Gia as she seeks creative solutions for relaxation and enjoyment in life. Lastly, “Triangle” confronts the issue of sexual harassment in a thought-provoking narrative.

    Additionally, three compelling documentary films will be presented in a special package focusing on cultural themes. Among them are “Steps of Freedom – The Story of Irish Dance” directed by Ruan Magan, “Kanda Bode (Don’t Get Whipped)” directed by Fekad Kiros and Cheryl Halpern, and “Flamenco: Passion in Danger” directed by Madeleine Y Gomez.

    Featuring an array of outstanding films, MIFF promises an enriching experience for cinephiles in Mumbai. Moreover, with parallel screenings in Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Pune, the festival extends its reach to a broader audience interested in short films, documentaries, and animation.

    Renowned for its eclectic selection of films spanning various genres, MIFF serves as a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers to showcase their craft. Established in 1990, with a rich history of nurturing cinematic talent and fostering cultural exchange, MIFF has garnered acclaim for its commitment to excellence in storytelling.