IFFI 2024 Honors Australia’s Rich Film Legacy

The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is proud to announce Australia as the “Country of Focus” for the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), scheduled to take place in Goa from November 20 to 28, 2024. This special recognition celebrates Australia’s dynamic contributions to the global film industry, showcasing its rich storytelling traditions, vibrant cinema culture, and innovative cinematic techniques.

Country of Focus at IFFI

• The “Country of Focus” segment at IFFI showcases a nation’s best contemporary films.
• Australia’s rich storytelling traditions, vibrant film culture, and innovative cinematic techniques make it a fitting selection.
• This recognition reflects the growing collaboration between the Indian and Australian film industries.

Showcase of Australian Films

A curated selection of seven Australian films will be presented at IFFI 2024.

The films will cover a diverse range of genres, including:

• Critically acclaimed dramas.
• Powerful documentaries.
• Visually stunning thrillers.
• Light-hearted comedies.

These films will highlight Australia’s unique cultural identity, drawing from both indigenous and contemporary communities.

Participation in Film Bazaar

• Australia will have a strong presence at Film Bazaar, South Asia’s largest film market held alongside IFFI.
• Delegates from Screen Australia, State Screen Commissions, and Ausfilm will participate, promoting Australian filming locations and incentives.
• A special exhibition at the Film Office will showcase Australian offerings to global filmmakers.
• Six Australian producers will receive government funding to attend Film Bazaar and explore co-production opportunities.
• A special “Australian Co-production Day” will be held, offering networking opportunities for filmmakers from both countries.
• The Australian project Home Before Night has been selected as an official entry in the Film Bazaar Co-Production Market.

Australia-India Film Co-Production Panel

• A dedicated panel discussion in the Knowledge Series will focus on co-production opportunities between the two countries.
• Industry experts and producers will discuss creative and logistical aspects of film co-productions.
• The panel will highlight successful co-production ventures between India and Australia.

Master Class by John Seale

• Academy Award-winning cinematographer John Seale, known for his work on Mad Max: Fury Road and The English Patient, will conduct a Master Class.
• The session will provide insights into Seale’s artistic journey and technical expertise, offering valuable knowledge to filmmakers and cinematography enthusiasts.

IFFI 2024 Highlights

• IFFI 2024 promises an exciting celebration of global cinema, with films from across the world, panel discussions, workshops, and exclusive screenings.
• Australia’s spotlight as the “Country of Focus” aligns with IFFI’s mission to promote cultural exchange and cinematic art that transcends borders.

Significance of IFFI

• Founded in 1952, the International Film Festival of India is one of Asia’s most significant film festivals.
• It serves as a platform for filmmakers worldwide to present their works and engage in meaningful exchanges.
• Held annually in Goa, IFFI attracts directors, producers, actors, and film enthusiasts, fostering an appreciation of world cinema.

Summary/Static	Details
Why in the news?	The Ministry of Information & Broadcasting is proud to announce Australia as the “Country of Focus” for the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI)
Australian Films Showcase	Seven curated Australian films in genres like drama, documentary, thriller, and comedy, reflecting Australia’s cultural diversity and storytelling heritage.
Film Bazaar Participation	Strong Australian presence with delegates from Screen Australia, Ausfilm, and state commissions promoting filming locations and incentives.
IFFI Overview	Established in 1952, IFFI is one of Asia’s most prestigious film festivals, fostering global cinematic exchange.