55th International Film Festival of India 2024, Check Complete List of Winners

The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) came to a magnificent conclusion on 28th November 2024 at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, Goa, marking the end of a nine-day celebration of global and Indian cinema. The closing ceremony honored cinematic excellence, promoted creative dialogue, and celebrated young and seasoned filmmakers from across the globe.

This year’s festival was unique, with a theme centred on “Young Filmmakers: The Future is Now.” It showcased over 195 films, creating a platform for budding talent while paying homage to cinematic legends.

Curtains Down on a Celebratory Journey

The closing ceremony was a blend of glamour and meaningful dialogue, celebrating the magic of storytelling. From dazzling performances to award presentations, the event honoured those who made significant contributions to the art of cinema.

The night ended with the screening of the closing film “Dry Season” by Czech filmmaker Bohdan Sláma, a moving story emphasizing sustainability and human relationships.

Key Highlights from the Closing Ceremony

1. Golden Peacock Award: Best Film

The prestigious Golden Peacock Award for Best Feature Film was awarded to the Lithuanian film “Toxic”, directed by Saulė Bliuvaitė. The film, a coming-of-age narrative, received high praise for its sensitive portrayal of friendship and adolescence in a struggling socio-economic environment.

2. Silver Peacock Awards

• Best Director: Bogdan Muresanu for The New Year That Never Came (Romania).
• Best Actor (Male): Clément Faveau for Holy Cow (France).
• Best Actor (Female): Jointly awarded to Vesta Matulytė and Ieva Rupeikaitė for Toxic (Lithuania).

3. Special Jury Award

French filmmaker Louise Courvoisier received the Special Jury Award for her film Holy Cow.

4. ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal

The Georgian film “Crossing” by Levan Akin was honored for promoting peace and non-violence.

5. Best Debut Film

The award for Best Debut Feature Film was won by Sarah Friedland for Familiar Touch (USA).

Honouring Indian Talent

1. Best Debut Director of an Indian Feature Film

The newly introduced award for Best Debut Director of Indian Feature Film went to Navjyot Bandiwadekar for the Marathi film Gharat Ganpati. This recognition highlights IFFI’s commitment to encouraging emerging Indian filmmakers.

2. Best Web Series (OTT)

The Best Web Series (OTT) award was presented to the Marathi series “Lampan”, directed by Nipun Dharmadhikari.

3. Indian Film Personality of the Year

Actor Vikrant Massey was honored with the Indian Film Personality of the Year Award for his exceptional contributions to Indian cinema.

Lifetime Achievement and Special Felicitations

1. Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award

Australian filmmaker Phillip Noyce received the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award, recognizing his outstanding contributions to global cinema.

2. Special Felicitations

Veteran Indian filmmaker Ramesh Sippy and celebrated actress Jaya Prada were felicitated for their remarkable contributions to Indian cinema.

Voices from the Ceremony

Chief Minister of Goa, Pramod Sawant

“The festival has placed Goa on the global map as a hub for cinema. Initiatives like Film Bazaar have attracted international filmmakers, and we assure seamless support for shooting in Goa.”

Secretary, Ministry of I&B, Sanjay Jaju

“This IFFI has been the most vibrant, celebrating young filmmakers and creative talents. The future of Indian cinema is brighter than ever.”

Complete Winners List

Summary of 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI 2024)