The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) continued to enthrall audiences on its fourth day, offering a captivating mix of films, masterclasses, and discussions. From inspiring personal stories of grit and perseverance to cinematic celebrations of mythology, culture, and resilience, the day highlighted the transformative power of cinema to connect, educate, and inspire.
Renowned sand artist and Padma Shri recipient, Shri Sudarsan Pattnaik sculptured a stunning sand art installation at Miramar Beach yesterday, as part of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) celebrations dedicated to four legendary figures of Indian cinema and music: Akkineni Nageswara Rao, Tapan Sinha, Mohammed Rafi, and Raj Kapoor.
“Failure Is an Event, Never a Person”: Anupam Kher’s Life Lessons
Veteran actor Anupam Kher delivered a moving masterclass titled The Power of Failure. From living on a railway platform to achieving stardom, Kher’s journey is a testament to resilience and perseverance.
“I am the success story of my own failures,” he remarked, recounting pivotal moments in his life, such as his breakthrough role in Saaransh. Kher shared his life philosophy of “never giving up,” inspiring the audience with stories of overcoming personal and professional challenges.
From Stage to Screen: Pune Highway
The gripping thriller Pune Highway, co-directed by Rahul DaCunha and Bugs Bhargava, transitioned from a celebrated stage play to a cinematic experience. The film delves into friendship, betrayal, and redemption, set against a backdrop of suspense and emotional depth.
Actor Amit Sadh praised the film’s exploration of complex human relationships. “It’s a story that speaks to everyone who has ever valued friendship,” he said. The film’s directors highlighted the challenges of adapting the intimate play into a cinematic format, emphasizing the universal themes of connection and resilience.
John Seale on Cinematography: “Every Film Is a New Film”
Renowned cinematographer John Seale delivered a masterclass on the art of visual storytelling. Reflecting on his illustrious career, Seale emphasized that there is no formula for cinematography. “Each film is unique and demands a fresh approach,” he shared.
Seale also highlighted his efforts to support actors, such as creating quieter clapboards and avoiding restrictive camera marks, allowing for more natural performances. His philosophy of treating every project as his first underscored his commitment to innovation and excellence.
“The Whistles and Claps Are My Therapy”: Sivakarthikeyan’s Inspiring Journey
The day began with Tamil superstar Sivakarthikeyan, who captivated a packed auditorium at Kala Academy, Goa. In conversation with actress-politician Khushbu Sundar, the actor reflected on his extraordinary journey from a mimicry artist to one of Tamil cinema’s most beloved stars.
Sivakarthikeyan spoke candidly about his struggles, including the impact of losing his father at a young age. “After my father passed away, I nearly fell into depression. My work and the love of my audience pulled me out. The whistles and claps became my therapy,” he shared.
Through humor, resilience, and an unwavering connection to his roots, Sivakarthikeyan’s journey is a testament to passion and perseverance. He urged young people to “fly like a free bird but always return to your nest,” emphasizing the importance of staying grounded.
A Mythological Superhero Takes Center Stage: Hanu-Man
The Indian Panorama section showcased the ambitious Telugu film Hanu-Man, directed by Prasanth Varma and featuring actor Teja Sajja as Hanumanthu, a thief who gains divine powers. Set in the fictional village of Anjanadri, the film blends mythology and modern storytelling, reimagining the superhero genre with Indian cultural roots.
Sajja expressed pride in portraying a character inspired by Indian mythology. “Hanuman-like figures are celebrated globally, and now it’s time for India to lead the narrative,” he said. Plans for a larger franchise were revealed, promising an expanded universe steeped in mythological storytelling.
Panel Discussion: “Stories That Travel”
A thought-provoking panel discussion explored how local stories with universal emotional appeal can connect with global audiences. Moderated by Bobby Bedi, the session featured luminaries like Farrukh Dhondy, Tannistha Chatterjee, and Lucy Walker.
Panelists emphasized the power of human emotions to transcend cultural and linguistic barriers. “The more local the story, the more global its appeal,” noted Tannistha Chatterjee, urging filmmakers to focus on authenticity and emotional resonance.
Cinematic Gems: Karkhanu, Google Matrimony, and Rador Pakhi
Three standout films were showcased:
Karkhanu: A Gujarati horror-comedy rooted in folklore, directed by Rushabh Thanki.
Google Matrimony: A poignant exploration of technology and human connection.
Rador Pakhi: An Assamese film about a young writer battling Spinal Muscular Atrophy, directed by Dr. Bobby Sharma Baruah.
Each film highlighted the diversity and depth of Indian storytelling, capturing themes of resilience, humor, and the search for connection.
A Celebration of Cinema’s Power
Day 4 of IFFI 2024 celebrated the multifaceted power of cinema—its ability to inspire, connect, and transform. From personal journeys of resilience to stories that transcend borders, the day was a testament to the universal language of storytelling. As the festival continues, audiences are reminded of cinema’s unique ability to reflect the human experience in all its complexity.
留言