Australia has been officially selected as the ‘Country to Watch’ for the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) to be held in Goa from November 20 to 28, 2024.
This selection follows the recent signing of the Audiovisual Co-Production Agreement between Australia and India, which aims to strengthen co-production between India and Australia and provide incentives to filmmakers through grants, loans and tax credits. is consistent with
The agreement was signed in 2023 by Trade Minister Don Farrell and India’s Minister of Information and Broadcasting Shri Anurag Singh Thakur, and Farrell said the agreement recognizes India’s role as a “cultural powerhouse” and encourages countries to said that it will create an “opportunity for collaboration” among film industry talent. and create content. ”
IFFI’s 2024 focus country: Australia
The ‘Country of Focus’ section features a selection of seven Australian films with a particular focus on Indigenous and contemporary stories.
Titles have not been disclosed, but the lineup is expected to range from “acclaimed dramas to light-hearted comedies and gripping thrillers.”
Oscar-winning cinematographer John Seale (who worked on major films such as Mad Max: Fury Road and The English Patient) will also host a cinematography masterclass at the festival. .
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Australia’s involvement in film festivals extends to Film Bazaar, South Asia’s prominent film market. Screen Australia, State Film Commissions and Ausfilm will promote Australia as a filming destination, with a focus on locations and production incentives.
A government-funded delegation of six Australian producers will also explore co-production opportunities during the event, with Australian project Home Before Night already selected for the co-production market.
Australia’s ‘Co-Production Day’ and dedicated panel discussions will explore co-production opportunities between Indian and Australian filmmakers, further highlighting the potential for cross-cultural projects.
The move to designate Australia as a featured country for the 2024 festival highlights what IFFI organizers call the “growing synergy” between Australian and Indian film. Previous collaborations between India and Australia include 2016’s Lion (directed by Garth Davis), 2005’s Salaam Namaste (directed by Sidharth Anand), and 2007’s Chak De! India (directed by Simit Amin).
The International Film Festival of India was established in 1952 and is held as an annual platform to promote excellence in the cinematic arts from around the world. The festival is run by the National Film Development Corporation of India (under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting) and the Goa State Government, and is recognized by FIAPF and is counted among prestigious festivals like the Cannes Film Festival. Masu.
The 55th Indian International Film Festival will be held in Goa, India from November 20 to 28, 2024. For more information, please visit IFFI’s official website.
