The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is set to open in Goa with the Asia premiere of Better Man, a semi-autobiographical film about British pop icon Robbie Williams, with Australian director Phillip Noyce honored with the prestigious Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award. Running from November 20 to 28, the festival promises a rich selection of over 180 films from 81 countries, marking an ambitious step forward in celebrating international cinema and young filmmaking talent.
At the curtain-raiser event in New Delhi, Union Minister of State for I&B L Murugan highlighted IFFI’s stature, stating that “IFFI is not less than the Cannes Film Festival,” given its increasing international engagement and industry support. Roadshows in cities like Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad have amplified IFFI’s visibility, drawing attention to its competitive edge within global festivals.
Better Man by Michael Gracey brings a unique portrayal of Williams, with Jonno Davies capturing the singer’s persona in a groundbreaking motion-capture performance. The festival will also honor Phillip Noyce, known for films like Salt and The Bone Collector, with the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award.
IFFI’s theme this year, Young Filmmakers – The Future is Now, underscores its commitment to supporting new voices in cinema. Reflecting this theme, the festival features 47 films directed by women and 66 works by debut directors. Sanjay Jaju, Secretary of I&B, noted the symbolic passing of the festival’s reins to the industry, with Shekhar Kapur stepping in as festival director. A new award recognizing Best Debut Indian Director has also been introduced, with a prize of Rs 5 lakh.
Australia will be this year’s Country of Focus, presenting a selection of Australian films and an extensive delegation. New international sections like Rising Stars and Mission Life—which focuses on eco-conscious films—expand IFFI’s programming, while a partnership with the British Film Institute brings a curated Treaty Country
To commemorate the centenary of icons like Raj Kapoor and Mohammed Rafi, IFFI will host screenings, exhibitions, and talks dedicated to their legacy, presenting restored classics in their honor.
IFFI’s Film Bazaar, an NFDC-hosted co-production event, returns for its 18th edition, enhancing collaboration opportunities. Additionally, IFFiesta will engage attendees through a community-oriented experience of films, art, and cuisine, offering a cultural melting pot for festivalgoers.
Key Highlights:-
- Better Man, based on Robbie Williams, opens IFFI 2024, with Phillip Noyce receiving the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award.
- IFFI 2024 features 180 films from 81 countries, including 47 films by women directors and 66 by young filmmakers.
- The festival highlights Australian cinema, eco-conscious films, and introduces a Best Debut Indian Director award.
- Celebrations honor Raj Kapoor and other Indian cinema icons with screenings and restored classics.