With Australia nominated as 'Country of Focus', 55th edition of grand IFFI-2024 starts from Nov. 20th, while Randeep Hooda's biopic 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar' is 'Opening' Panorama movie ! by Chaitanya Padukone

The I & B Ministry has proudly announced that Australia has been nominated as the “Country of Focus” at the 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), to be held in Panaji-in Goa from November 20 to 28, 2024. India & Australia have recently signed an Audio Visual Co-production Treaty. Such films will be eligible for grant of incentives by both countries and thus promote co-production of films between the film-maker of both countries.

This special recognition also aims to celebrate the dynamic contributions of Australian cinema to the global film industry, highlighting its rich storytelling traditions, vibrant film culture, and innovative cinematic techniques.

Meanwhile, dynamic charismatic producer-director-lead actor Randeep Hooda's feature film 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar ( Randeep in title-role opposite Ankita Lokhande as 'Yamunbai Savarkar' ) will be the Opening feature film in the Indian Panorama at the IFFI-2024. The award-worthy brilliant historic bio-pic is co-produced by Anand Pandit and Sandeep Singh. The producers and the lead actor-producer Randeep Hooda are delighted and honored that their meticulously-made realistic movie 'Swatantrya Veer Savarkar' (2024) has been given the pride-of-place as the opening film at the upcoming IFFI-2024.

Interestingly, the well-made Ladakhi language film 'Ghar Jaisa Kuch' will be the Opening Non-Feature Film. The Feature Films Jury comprising 12 eminent Members is headed this time by acclaimed senior stalwart actor-director-writer-visionary Dr.
Chandra Prakash Dwivedi ( also fondly called "Doctor-saab')

Founded in 1952, the International Film Festival of India is now one of the prestigious 14 international film festivals recognized by FIAPF. Held annually in Goa, the glamour-grandeur-studded cultural and cinematic festival IFFI attracts globally acclaimed both established and budding directors, producers, actors, performer, and thousands of cinephiles and film enthusiasts to celebrate the finest in World Cinema.

Showcasing of some of the awesome Australian Films: The "Country of Focus" segment is a key feature of IFFI-2024 offering a dedicated showcase of a nation's best contemporary films. This inclusion reflects the strengthening collaboration between the Indian and Australian film industries.

With ( total 45)  25 plus 20 carefully curated feature films and non-feature films, to be screened, the IFFI-2024 will present a carefully curated selection of seven Australian films. These films will showcase the unique cultural identity of Australia, reflecting the vibrant spectrum of stories from its Indigenous and contemporary communities.

Participation in Film Bazaar: Film Bazaar-2024  the largest South Asian film market held alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), will see a sizeable Australian participation with a strong delegation from Screen Australia, State Screen Commissions and also Ausfilm, the agency promoting Australia as a filming destination. They will showcase their offerings including Australian locations and incentives at the special Film Office exhibition area. 

The Film Bazaar-2024  will also see a Producers’ delegation with upto six producers receiving funding from the Australian Government to attend Film Bazaar and explore co-production opportunities. There will also be a special Australian Co-production Day at the Film Bazaar where filmmaker delegates from both the countries will be given an opportunity to network.

This edition Film Bazaar-2024  is also showcasing the Australian project Home Before Night as one of its official entries in the Co-Production Market. A dedicated panel discussion in the Knowledge Series will focus on co-production opportunities between the two countries. 

A major attraction at IFFI-2024 will be the Cinematography Master Class led by Academy Award-winning veteran cinematographer John Seale, known for his work on iconic films such as Mad Max: Fury Road and The English Patient. This session will delve into his artistic journey and offer invaluable technical insights to budding filmmakers and enthusiasts. He is participating in IFFI as Board Member of the Australian delegation.

The 55th IFFI 2024 is set to be an exhilarating celebration of world cinema,  at exotic location of beach-studded coastal city Panaji in Goa,  bringing together an eclectic mix of films from across the globe, stimulating panel discussions, engaging workshops, and exclusive screenings. This year’s “Country of Focus” spotlight on Australia will enhance IFFI’s mission of fostering international cultural exchange and promoting foreign cinematic excellence and awareness.