NEW DELHI: The 30th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) is set to captivate audiences with a diverse array of cinematic works, showcasing approximately 180 films from 29 countries. Festival chairman Goutam Ghose announced that France will be the spotlight nation, presenting 21 films during the event, scheduled from December 4 to 11.
West Bengal minister and KIFF organizing committee member Aroop Biswas highlighted that the festival will feature a mix of feature films, shorts, and documentaries, with a strong emphasis on its competitive sections. Notably, 42 feature films will compete in four categories, including the prestigious international competition for the Royal Bengal Tiger Trophy.
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The centenary tribute section will honour film icons like Tapan Sinha and Marlon Brando, along with a special tribute to recently deceased contributors such as Manoj Mitra. The festival will open with Tapan Sinhaโs โGalpo Holeo Sattiโ and include insightful discussions like R Balkiโs Satyajit Ray Memorial Lecture and an interactive session with actress Vidya Balan.
In a significant shift, there will be no representation from Bangladesh this year, marking a notable absence in the festivalโs lineup. This development follows the Kolkata Book Fair, which also saw a lack of participation from the neighbouring country.
Franceโs selection as the focus country continues the trend from the 53rd International Film Festival of India in 2022. The 30th KIFF will spotlight contemporary French women filmmakers, with notable entries from directors like Caroline Vignal, Celine Rouzet, and Elise Otzenberger. French classics and contemporary films, including โThe Quiet Sonโ by Delphine Coulin and Muriel Coulin, will be featured.
One of the festivalโs highlights will be the Asian premiere of Ghoseโs new film โParikramaโ. Australian-born Italian actor Marco Leonardi, known for his role in โCinema Paradisoโ and Ridley Scottโs โAll the Money in the Worldโ, will attend the premiere.
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Ghose emphasized the importance of high-quality screenings, ensuring that all films, especially older ones, are properly restored. This yearโs KIFF aims to provide a platform for high-calibre cinematic experiences while fostering international cinematic connections, particularly with French cinema.
The 30th KIFF promises to be a memorable celebration of global cinema, bridging cultures and showcasing a diverse range of stories and perspectives.
