The
International Film Festival of India has always been about celebrating and
appreciating movies. IFFI acts as a platform that exhibits a variety of films
from different countries, languages and genres.
Each year,
IFFI brings something new to the table and this year is no exception.
Just like
every year, the spirit of IFFI generates a buzz all around Goa and while the
49th edition of the festival is jam packed with tons of movie screenings,
enticing food and a diverse atmosphere, we have asked the public what they
think about it. Does the mood throughout the state match the hype generated by
IFFI about being a premier film festival? And is it attracting locals in large
numbers to attend the same?
According
to Dr Diksha Sirohi,
“IFFI is the melting
pot of cultures,
not only from the cinematic world but also from daily walks of life. The
festival showcases films of international repute, bringing cinematic pleasure not
just to Goans but various delegates who flock the sun-kissed land from various
countries. Every year, films from a particular country are showcased to display
their prevalent cultural themes; it’s known as ‘Country Focus’. This brings
premier cinema to town in keeping with the expectations of the delegates. IFFI
also bring locals of all ages to various events like open cinema, children’s activities, art events
etc,
attracting lots of people in sync with the festive vibe.”
Prayag Quenim
of the New York Film
Academy states, “IFFI
has Goa as its permanent venue from 2003 and this year it will be the 49th
edition of IFFI. It is primarily a convention of film fraternity where
professionals from all over the world come together and celebrate cinema. IFFI is a very serious event
and helps the Indian film industry
to be recognised on international
platforms through showcasing their films, hosting forums and competitions, but Goa as a venue takes it to
another level by trying to make it a wholesome family event with performances,
movie bus for children, interaction with famous actors and director.”
Café shares a cross section of views
on the same:
Film
enthusiasts in Goa look forward to IFFI as it showcases the best of Indian and
global cinema, right here in Panjim. From star-studded ceremonies to great
movies, IFFI has it all. It is a matter of pride that a festival of this
magnitude is held in Panjim.
Soraya Pinto Makhija
IFFI is a
large scale festival that abounds
in diversity. People from various parts of the world come together to celebrate
their love for films. It is a platform to showcase movies from different genres
that cater to all movie lovers. It aims to strengthen the already existing
bonds between multiple countries. The eclectic music and variety of delicacies
and performances add an edgy vibe to the whole cinematic experience. Owning a
guest house for the past 5 years and living in the centre of the festival,
people from around the world visit IFFI and book months in advance as most
places in Panjim are full.
Deric Rebelo
I have been
a part of the IFFI journey since the 35th IFFI was held in Goa for the first
time in 2004. With the 49th
IFFI, this is the fourteenth year for IFFI in Goa and I am happy to be a delegate for the
last 14 years. IFFI Goa provides the richest global cinematic experience within
a short time. Lack of buzz this year will see a drop in the number of delegates
from abroad and other states, but local film enthusiasts like me are eagerly
looking forward to this year’s edition, as it is an opportunity to see quality
Indian films and world cinema in a festive and fun atmosphere attended by
celebs and to meet interesting personalities associated with film, art and
culture.
Errol Machado
The mood does match the hype, but
not in the way you would think or what it's intended for. While IFFI does
attract local Goans in large numbers, it's not for the movies but more for the
street side entertainment. While
there are quite a few Goans that register as delegates for the IFFI, their
numbers pale in comparison to the hordes of delegates that descend up on us
from out of town.
Ayesha Barretto