15th IFFK -FIPRESCI Prize-Award goes to Buried Secrets/ Dowaha directed by Raja Amari from Tunisia

The FIPRESCI Award for the best film in competition goes to Buried Secrets/ Dowaha directed by Raja Amari from Tunisia ,for its vibrant study on the precarious life of women in Tunisian society today. Brilliantly narrated, enacted and photographed the film gives an compassionate insight in women` violence against each other rooted in their `buried secrets`, their non revealed experience of abuse in the past. The FIPRESCI Award for the Best Malayalam Film goes to Makaramanju/ Mist of Capricorn directed by Lenin Rajendran.The fipresci jury comprise of Claudia Lenssen (Chairperson),Kiril Razlogov and Bikas Mihra.

''Portraits in a Sea of Lies' by Carlos Gaviria – Colombia- bagged the Golden Crow Pheasant award for best film in the 15th IFFK 2010.

Spanish film ''Portraits in a Sea of Lies' 'by Carlos Gaviria – Colombia- bagged the Golden Crow Pheasant award for best film in the 15th International Film Festival of Kerala which concluded today. The film, received a cash prize of Rs 15 lakh and a certificate,the Silver Crow Pheasant award for the best director went to Argentinian ''The Last Summer of La Boyita''. Julio Solomonoff ,the director received Rs four lakh and a certificate .The ''Rajatha Chakoram'' prize for the best debut film was bagged by Turkish film ''Zephyr'' directed by Belma Bas. These prizes were adjudged by a jury headed by African-American director and academic Julie Dash. However the audience poll by the delegates of this edition of IFFK supported ''The Japanese Wife'' , an Indian film in Bengali directed by Aparna Sen and which won the Rajatha Chakoram award .The Netpac (Network for promotion of Asian Film Centre) award for the best Asian film went to ''I am Afiya Megha Abhimanyu Omar'' by Onir Anirban from India. Netpac award for the best Malayalam film was bagged by ''Veetilekkulla Vazhi'' (The way home) directed by Dr Biju.The FIPRESCI award( Critics’ prize) went to ''Buried Secrets'' by Tunisian film maker Raja Amari. FIPRESCI award for the best Malayalam film was bagged by Lenin Rajendran. ''Makaramanju'' (Mist of Capricorn).The Hassan Kutty award for the best Indian debut film, instituted by Mira Nair in memory of her colleague Hasankutty, went to ''Chithra Surtam'' by Vipin Vijay. Renowned director Maniratnam and and his actor wife Suahasini attended the function as guests of hnour.A cultural programme was presented and the award winning film screened during the finale.

Critics' Prizes—Fipresci Award-at the recently concluded international film festivals of Thessaloniki, Havana, Cairo, Torino and Tallinn

Thessaloniki (Greece, Thessaloniki International Film Festival, December 3–12, 2010). Prize, for a film in the international competition: "Morgen" by Marian Crisan (Romania, France, Hungary, 2010). Prize, for a film in the Greek Panorama: "Apnia" (Apnea) by Ari Bafalouka (Greece, 2010). Jury: Annika Gustafsson (Sweden), president, Dubravka Lakic (Serbia), Chris Patmore (UK), Minou Moshiri (Iran), Tasios Retzios (Greece).
Havana (Cuba, December 2–12, 2010). Prize: "Post-Mortem", directed by Pablo Larrain (Chile, Mexico, Germany, 2010). Jury: Joan Dupont (France), Maja Bogojevic (Montenegro), Ernesto Aguirre (Uruguay), Mario Abbade Neto (Brazil), Pedro Noa Romero (Cuba).
Cairo (Egypt, November 30 – December 9, 2010). Prize: "Voice Over" (Za kadar) by Svetoslav Ovtcharov (Bulgaria, 2010). Jury: Sergei Anashkin (Russia), president, Senem Ismen (Turkey), Fernando Salvà Grimalt (Spain), Rwita Dutta (India), Amal Gomaa Al Gamal (Egypt).
Torino (Italy, November 26 – December 4, 2010). Prize: "Small Town Murder Songs" by Ed Gass-Donnelly (Canada 2010). Jury: Jan Lumholdt (Sweden), president, Victor Matizen, (Russia), Thomas Rothschild (Germany), Gábor Gelencsér (Hungary), Roberto Tirapelle (Italy).
Tallinn (Black Nights Film Festival, November 24 – December 5, 2010). Prize: "The Temptation of St. Tony" (Püha Tõnu kiusamine) by Veiko Õunpuu (Estonia, Sweden, Finland, 2009). Jury: Katharina Dockhorn (Germany), Carmen Gray (Great Britain), Margit Adorf (Estonia).
Source:Klaus Eder, Fipresci- International Federation of Film Critics,Munich, Germany

Indian Cinema dares to face realities :Katalin Godros –Swiss Director

“Indian cinema remains hand-in-glove with realities, and dares to face it” said Swiss director Katalin Godros, during the Meet the Press held at Festival office. Her movie ‘Songs of Love and Hate’ was featured on Monday in the world cinema group. Documentaries and short films are the major outputs of Swiss industry which are not at all competent with Indian filmdom opined Katalin. She has her own apprehension about the future of Swiss Film Industry.

Athlete of cinema

Speaking at a meet-the-press organised as part of the 15th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) Werner Herzog, renowned German film-maker said that he considers himself more an athlete of cinema than an artiste. 'I have a strange difficulty in viewing myself as an artiste. I see myself more as an athlete of cinema because film-making involves overcoming a number of physical challenges. My film ‘Aguirre: The Wrath of God,'for example, was made in extreme physical conditions,'Mr. Herzog said. 'I think I want to be a good soldier of cinema,'he added.Equating cinema to poetry, Mr. Herzog said a good film was more about poetry, rhythm and music than technicalities. 'I always encourage young directors to go for substance and poetry in their films rather than focussing on technicalities and finance. You should not be too academic in your approach. However, ultimately what constitutes cinema is a mystery,' he said.

A COLOURFUL START TO THE 15TH INTERNATIONAL FILM FESTIVAL OF KERALA

International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) flagged of at the Nishagandhi open-air auditorium Thiruvananthapuram todayin the presence of thousandas of film enthusiasts and well known film personalities.Werner Herzog, a German film-maker who keeps breaking all known concepts of film-making, was awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award at the inaugural function. Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan handed over the award to him on behalf of the Govt. of Kerala.Waheeda Rehman, Guest of honour and the the evergreen beauty of yesteryear Hindi cinema was also honored. Jnanpith Award-winning poet O.N.V. Kurup was also honoured at the function.In his inaugural address, Mr. Achuthanandan said cinema represented creative reproduction of the subtle aspects of life. In that, there was universality and timelessness in cinema, just as in other sublime forms of art.

M.A. Baby, Minister for Cultural Affairs who presided over the function., Festival Director K.R. Mohanan gave an overview of the screenings during the eight days of the event. The focus of the event was the best of cinema from Third World countries, while providing the audience a feast of the best of cinema from other parts of the world as well. Film-auteur Adoor Gopalakrishnan, K. Chandrika, Mayor were graced the function. The inaugural function was followed by the screening of the Iranian film Please Don't Disturb directed by Mohsen Abdolvahab. screened during the day.

Waheeda Rehman inaugurates the 15th edition of International Film Festival of Kerala

Veteran actor Waheeda Rehman, one of the most prominent actors of the golden era, will inaugurate the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) at Thiruvananthapuram on December 10... Astonished by her beauty and talent, Guru Dutt cast her in all of his films. Thus, Waheeda gave an exciting performance in Pyaasa (1957), Chaudhvin Ka Chand (1960), Sahib Bibi Aur Ghulam (1962) and Kaagaz Ke Phool (1960).Waheeda also worked with the acclaimed director Satyajit Ray in Abhijaan (1962) and consolidated her position as a top Bollywood star with her commercial successes Bees Saal Baad (1962) and_Kohra (1964). Then she did Guide (1965/I) - a film that took her to the peak of her career. While commercial films like Ram Aur Shyam (1967) and Patthar Ke Sanam (1967) proved to be huge successes followed by Teesri Kasam (1966) and Reshma Aur Shera (1971).She later cut down on her acting assignments, Kabhi Kabhie - Love Is Life (1976)), Lamhe (1991) and Rang De Basanti (2006). She got National Award for Best Actress for Reshma Aur Shera in 1971.She won Film Fare award for Neel Kamal ,Guide ,Sahib Bibi Aur Gulam.She has 88 film titles to her credit. Govt of India bequeathed her with Padmashree in 1972. The Ministry Of information and Broadcasting , Govt of India rolled red carpet for her by inviting her to inaugurate the 40th International film Festival of India held in Goa last year.

Kerala honoring Werner Herzog

German film Auteur Werner Herzog will be honoured with a lifetime achievement award at the 15th edition of International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) beginning here on December 10,2010.The award, carrying a citation and a cash prize of USD 10,000 would be presented to Herzog during the opening ceremony of the fest, at Thiruvananthapuram , the capital city of Kerala

15th International Film Festival of Kerala 2010 -Malayalam films in international competition

Two Malayalam films have been included in the international competition section of IFFK 2010. They are T.D.Dasan, Std. 6 B directed by Mohan Raghavan and Palerimanikyam by Ranjith .Other two films from India are I am Afia Megha Abhimanyu Omar directed by Onir and the Japanese Wife directed by Aparna Sen

15TH IFFK 2010- Malayalam cinema today

The following films have been included in the Malayalam Cinema today category representing contemporary cinema.Aathmakadha directed by Pream lal ,Janaki -M.G.Sasi,Elektra by Shyama Prasad ,Makaramanju by Lenin Rajendran, Chithrakuzhal by Majeed Gulistan ,Veettilekkulla Vazhi byDr. Biju ,Yugapurushan by R. Sukumaran, Chitra Sutram by Vipin vijay

15th IFFK 2010-List of films selected for screening

15th IFFK 2010-List of films selected for screening @

.......................................................................
Sl no Title (English) Country Duration Year Director's Name
Bicentennial Films
1 LOS OLVIDADOS/The young and the damned Mexico 85min 1952 LUIS BUNUEL
2 MACHUCA Chile|Spain|UK|France 121min 2004 ANDRES WOOD
3 TAITA BOVES Venezuela 100min 2010 LUIS ALBERTO LAMATA
4 THE LAND OF NO EVIL Paraguay|Italy 80min 2008ANARECALDE|CRISTINARAJOLA
5 THE LOST REPUBLIC Argentina 146min 1983 MIGUEL PEREZ
6 THE STATE OF THINGS Bolivia 76min 2007 MARCO LOAYZA
7 The Virgin that Forged a Country Mexico 110min 1942 JULIO BRACHO
8 WHEN MY TIME COMES Ecuador 90min 2007 VICTOR ARREGUI
Central Asia
9 0RATOR UZBEKISTAN 90min 1998 YUSUP RAZYKOV
10 ANGEL ON THE RIGHT SHOULDER/Tajikistan|Switzerland|France/91min2002
/DJAMSHED USMANOV
11 CARDIOGRAM KAZAKHSTAN 75min 1995 DAREZHAN OMIRBAYEV
12 SARATAN KYRGYZSTAN 84min 2005 ERNEST ABDYJAPAROV
13 THE ADOPTED SON KYRGYZSTAN 81min 1998 AKTAN ABDIKALIKOW
14 THE DAUGHTER-IN-LAW KAZAKHSTAN 84min 2009 ERMEK TURSUNOV
15 THE REVENGE KAZAKHSTAN 96min 1989 ERMEK SHINARBAEV
Competition Films
16 A DAY IN ORANGE VENEZUELA 87min 2009 ALEJANDRA SZEPLAKI
17 T.D.DASAN, Std. 6 B INDIA 98min 2010 MOHAN RAGHAVAN
18 ANIMAL TOWN SOUTH KOREA/USA 97min 2009 JEON KYUHWAN
19 BURIED SECRETS Tunisia | Switzerland | France 91min 2009 RAJA AMARI
20 HELIOPOLIS EGYPT 96min 2009 AHMAD ABDALLA
21 I AM AFIA MEGHA ABHIMANYU OMAR INDIA 110min 2010 ONIR
22 OPTICAL ILLUSIONS CHILE/FRANCE/PORTUGAL 105min 2009 CHRISTIAN
JIMENEZ
23 PALERIMANIKYAM INDIA 135min 2009 RANJITH
24 PORTRAITS IN A SEA OF LIES COLOMBIA 90min 2009 CARLOS
GAVIRIA
25 THE JAPANESE WIFE INDIA 105min 2010 APARNA SEN
26 THE LAST SUMMER OF LA BOYITA ARGENTINA/ SPAIN/ GERMANY 86min
2009 JULIA SOLOMONOFF
27 WALKING ON THE RAIL IRAN 76min 2010 BABAK SHIRINSEFAT
28 WINE ARGENTINA 75min 2010 DIEGO FRIED
29 ZEPHYR TURKEY 100min 2010 BELMA BAS
Contemporary Masters in Focus:
WERNER HERZOG
30 AGUIRRE THE WRATH OF GOD West Germany 93min 1972 WERNER HERZOG
31 ECSTASY OF WOODCUTTER STEINER West Germany 45min 1974 WERNER HERZOG
32 FITZCARRALDO Peru|West Germany 158min 1982 WERNER HERZOG
33 HEART OF GLASS West Germany 94min 1976 WERNER HERZOG
34 MY BEST FRIEND UK/Germany|Finland|USA 95min 1999 WERNER HERZOG
OLIVER ASSAYAS
35 CARLOS Germany 330min 2010 OLIVIER ASSAYAS
36 CLEAN France|Canada|UK 111min 2004 OLIVIER ASSAYAS
37 IRMA VEP France 99min 1996 OLIVIER ASSAYAS
38 HHH PORTRAIT DE HOU HSIA HSIEN Mandarin | Taiwanese|France 91min 1997 OLIVIER ASSAYAS
39 SENTIMENTAL DESTINIES France | Switzerland 180min 2000 OLIVIER
ASSAYAS
MARIA NOVARO
40 DANZON Mexico|Spain 120min 1991 MARIA NOVARA
41 LOLA Mexico 92min 1989 MARIA NOVARA
42 THE GARDEN OF EDEN Canada|France|Mexico 104min 1994 MARIA NOVARA
43 THE GOOD HERBS Mexico 117min 2010 MARIA NOVARA
44 WITHOUT A TRACE Spain|Mexico 109min 2003 MARIA NOVARA
APICHATPONG WEERASUTHAKAL
45 MYSTERIOUS OBJECT AT NOON Thailand 83min 2000 APICHATPONG WEERASUTHAKAL
46 SYNDROMES AND A CENTURY Thailand | France | Austria 105min 2006 APICHATPONG WEERASUTHAKAL

47TROPICAL MALADY Thailand | France | Germany | Italy/118min/2004
APICHATPONG WEERASUTHAKAL
48 UNCLE BOONMEE WHO CAN RECALL HIS PAST LIVES THAILAND 114min 2010 APICHATPONG WEERASETHAKUL
49 BLISSFULLY YOURS Thailand|France 125min 2002 APICHATPONG
WEERASETHAKUL
Fassbinder Retrospective
50 CHINESE ROULETTE WEST GERMANY/FRANCE 96min 1976 FASSBINDER
51 DESPAIR – EINE REISE INS LICHT WEST GERMANY/FRANCE 119min 1977
FASSBINDER
52 FEAR EATS THE SOUL WEST GERMANY 93min 1973 FASSBINDER
53 GODS OF THE PLAGUE WEST GERMANY 91min 1970 FASSBINDER
54 KATZELMACHER WEST GERMANY 88min 1969 FASSBINDER
55 LILLI MARLEEN WEST GERMANY 120min 1980 FASSBINDER
56 LOVE IS COLDER THAN DEATH WEST GERMANY 88min 1969 FASSBINDER
Flamenco Films
57 BLOOD WEDDING Spain|France 72min 1981 CARLOS SURA
58 CAMARON: WHEN FLAMENCO BECAME LEGEND Spain 119min 2005 JAIME
CHAVARRI
59 CARMEN Spain 102min 1983 CARLOS SURA
60 EL AMOR BRUJO Spain 100min 1986 CARLOS SURA
61 FLEMENCO FLEMENCO Spain 119min 2010 CARLOS SURAS
62 LOLA,THE FILM Spain 113min 2007 MIGUEL HERMOSO
63 CAMEROON LOVE LETTER Cameroon 70min 2010 KHAVN De La CRUZ
64 MEMORIES OF A BURNING TREE Tanzania 86min 2010 SHERMAN ONG
65 NAIROBI NOTES Indonesia|Kenya 15min 2010 EDWIN
66 NO WOMAN BORN Malaysia| South Africa 20min 2010 TAN CHUI MUI
67 RWANDA: TAKE TWO USA|Rwanda 50min 2010 PIA SAWHNEY
68 SARAH AND OMLEGA Malaysia| South Africa 30min 2010 TAN CHUI MUI
Forget Africa
69 SLAM VIDEO MAPUTO Austria| Mozambique 28min 2010 ELLA RAIDEL
70 SUNDAY SCHOOL Philippines|China |Zambia 45min 2010 JOANNA
VASQUEZ ARONG
71 TANZANIA LIVING ROOM Germany| Tanzania 75min 2010 ULI M.
SCHUPPEL
72 UNREAL FOREST Thailand | Zambia 70min 2010 JAKRAWAL NILTHAMRONG
73 WALKING IS DANCING USA|Malawi 25min 2010 DEBORAH STRATMAN
74 WHERE ARE YOU TAKING ME? USA|Uganda 71min 2010 KIMI TAKESUE
Indian Cinema Now
75 I AM KALAM INDIA 89min 2010 NILA MADHAB PANDA
76 LOVE SEX AUR DHOKHA INDIA 2010 DIBAKAR BANERJEE
77 MEMORIES IN MARCH INDIA 104min 2010 SANJOY NAG
78 METROPOLIS @ KOLKATA INDIA 95min 2009 SUMAN MUKHOPADHYAY
79 NATARANG INDIA 124min 2010 RAVI JADHAV
80 RIDING THE STALLION OF A DREAM INDIA 110min 2010 GIRISH KASARAVALLI
81 UDAAN INDIA 137min 2010 VIKRAMADITHYA MOTWANE
JAPANESE CLASSICAL FILMS
82 BOILING POINT JAPAN 96min 1990 KITANO TAKESHI
83 PASTORAL HIDE-AND-SEEK JAPAN 104min 1974 TERAYAMA SHUJI
84 THE GRAND MASTER JAPAN 92min 1962 ITO DAISUKE
85 THE HUMAN CONDITION PartⅠ JAPAN 208min 1959 KOBAYASHI MASAKI|

MATSUYAMA ZENZU
86 THE HUMAN CONDITION PartⅡ JAPAN 181min 1959 KOBAYASHI MASAKI
MATSUYAMA ZENZU
87 THE STORY OF THE LAST CHRYSANTHEMUMS JAPAN 142min 1939 MIZOGUCHI
KENJI
88 THE TYCOON JAPAN 152min 1964 YAMAMOTO SATSUO
89 ZEGEN JAPAN 124min 1987 IMAMURA SHOHEI
JAPANESE MANGA
90 5 CENTIMETERS PER SECOND JAPAN 63min 2007 MAKATO SHINKAI
91 BROKEN DOWN FILM JAPAN 6min 1985 OSAMU TEZUKA
92 CHIBI MARUKO CHAN JAPAN 94min 1990 YAMIKO SUDA|

TSUTOMU SHIBAYAMA
93 KARO& PIYOBUPT "IMAGINATION" JAPAN 5min 1993 KOJI YAMAMURA
94 PICA DON JAPAN 10min 1978 RENZO&SAYOKO KINOSHITA
95 ROOM JAPAN 7min 1967 YOJI KURI
96 SKI JUMPING PARIS JAPAN 5min 2001 RIICHIRO MASHIMA
97 TARZAN JAPAN 7min 1990 TAKU FURUKAWA
98 THE DEMON JAPAN 8min 1972 KIHACHIRO KAWAMOTO
99 THE MAGIC BOX JAPAN 25min 1982 TADANARI OKAMOTO
100 THE PLACE PROMISED IN OUR EARLY DAYS JAPAN 91min 2004 MAKATO
SHINKAI
101 THE SPIDER AND THE TULIP JAPAN 16min 1943 KENZO MASAOKA
Malayalam Cinema Today
102 AATHMAKADHA INDIA 120min 2010 PREAM LAL
103 JANAKI INDIA 92min 2010 M.G.SASI
104 ELEKTRA INDIA 126min 2010 SHYAMA PRASAD
105 MAKARAMANJU INDIA 120min 2010 LENIN RAJENDRAN
106 CHITHRAKUZHAL INDIA 81min 2009 MAJEED GULISTAN
107 VEETTILEKKULLA VAZHI INDIA 95min 2010 Dr. BIJU
108 YUGAPURUSHAN INDIA 121min 2010 R. SUKUMARAN
109 CHITRA SUTRAM INDIA 104min 2010 VIPIN VIJAY
The Spirit of Independence
110 DAUGHTERS OF THE DUST USA/UK 112min 1991 JULIE DASH
111 THE ROSA PARKS STORY USA 97min 2002 JULIE DASH
112 KILLER OF SHEEP USA 83min 1981 CHARLES BURNETT
113 HARVEST 3000 YEARS Ethiopia 150min 1976 HAILE GERIMA
114 BLESS THEIR LITTLE HEARTS USA 80min 1984 BILLY WOODBERRY
115 TO SLEEP WITH ANGER USA 101min 1990 CHARLES BURNETT
Tribute to Sotigui Kouyate
116 COURAGE OF OTHERS Burkino Faso 92min 1982 CHRISTIAN RICHARD
117 LITTLE SENEGAL Algeria| France| Germany 97min 2001 RACHID
BOUCHAREB
118 LONDON RIVER UK|France|Algeria 87min 2009 RACHID BOUCHAREB
119 GENESIS France|Mali 102min 1999 OUMAR SISSOKO

120 MAHABHARATA Belgium| Austria| USA| Sweden| Portugal| Norway|
Japan|Ireland|Iceland|Finland|Denmark|UK|France/171min1998/PETER BROOK
Women Films
121 ALL SCREWED UP Italy 105min 1974 LINA WERTMULLER
122 CLEO FROM 5 TO 7 France|Italy 90min 1962 AGNES VARDA
123 DAISES Czechoslovakia 74min 1966 VERA CHYTOLOVA
124 MESHES IN THE AFTERNOON USA 14min 1943 MAYA DEREN
125 TRIUMPH OF THE WILL Germany 114min 1935 LENI RIEFENSTAH
World Cinema
126 The Princess of Montpensier France|Germany 139min 2010 BERTRAND
TAVERNIER
127 ANOTHER YEAR UK 129min 2010 MIKE LEIGH
128 ANTAHEEN India 120min 2009 ANIRUDHA ROY CHOWDHURY
129 AURORA Romania|France|Switzerland|Germany 181min 2010 CRISTI PUIU
130 BIUTIFUL Spain|Mexico 138min 2010 Alejandro Gonzalez Inarritu
131 BLACK AND WHITE TURKEY 92min 2010 AHMET BOYACIOGLU
132 BLACK HEAVEN BELGIUM/FRANCE 104min 2010 GILLES MARCHAND
133 COLD WATER OF THE SEA COSTA RICA/FRANCE/ SPAIN/MEXICO 83min 2009 PAZ
FABREGA
134 DOMAINE France|Austria 110min 2009 PATRIC CHIHA
135 DON’T BE AFRAID GERMANY 90min 2009 AELRUN GOETTE
136 DON’T BE AFRAID, BI VIETNAM/ FRANCE/GERMANY 96min 2010 PHAN DANG DI
137 FIVE HOURS FROM PARIS ISRAEL 90min 2009 LEON PRUDOVSKY
138 HOW I ENDED THIS SUMMER RUSSIA 124min 2010 ALEXEI POPOGREBSKY
139 IT'S YOUR FAULT Argentina|France 90min 2010 ANAHI BERNERI
140 JOY Netherlands 75min 2010 MIJKE DE JONG
141 LIGHT IN DARKNESS-THE RETURN OF RED LIGHT BANDIT BRAZIL 83min 2010 HELENA IGNEZ/ICARO MARTINS
142 MARTHA MEXICO 76min 2010 MARCELINO ISLAS HERNANDEZ
143 MESSAGES FROM THE SEA Egypt 133min 2010 DAOUD ABDEL SAYED
144 MY MONGOLIAN MOTHER CHINA 105min 2010 NING CAI
145 NIGHT & FOG HONG KONG 122min 2009 ANN HUI
146 NORTHLESS Mexico|Spain 95min 2009 RIGOBERTO PEREZCANO
147 PLEASE DON'T DISTURB IRAN 80min 2010 MOHSEN ABDOLVAHAB
148 PRECIOUS United States 110min 2009 LEE DANIELS
149 ROUTE IRISH UK | France | Italy | Belgium | Spain 109min 2010KEN LOACH
150 SILENT SOULS Russia 75min 2010 ALEKSEI FEDORCHENKO
151 SO HARD TO FORGET BRAZIL 100min 2010 MALU DE MARTINO
152 SOME OTHER STORIES SLOVENIA/IRELAND/ SERBIA/CROATIA 114min 2010 Marija Dzidzeva/Ivona Juka/ Ana Marija Rosi /Ines Tanovic/Hanna AntoninSlak
153 SOMEWHERE USA 98min 2010 SOFIA COPPOLA
154 SON OF BABYLON IRAQ/ UK/ NETHERLANDS/FRANCE 90min 2009 MOHAMED
AL-DARAJI
155 SONGS OF LOVE AND HATE Switzerland 90min 2010 KATALIN GODROS
156 SUMMER OF GOLIATH MEXICO/CANADA 78min 2010 NICOLAS PEREDA
157 THE HUMAN RESOURCES MANAGER Israel|Germany|France 103min 2010 ERAN
RIKLIS
158 THE FILM SOCIALISM Switzerland|France 101min 2010 Jean Luc
Godard
159 THE TIGER FACTORY MALAYSIA/JAPAN 94min 2010 WOO MING JIN
160 TUESDAY AFTER CHRISTMAS ROMANIA 99min 2010 RADU MUNTEAN
161 WHAT YOU DON'T SEE AUSTRIA/GERMANY 89min 2009 WOLFGANG FISCHER
162 WHEN WE LEAVE GERMANY 119min 2010 FEO ALADAG
163 WOMEN WITHOUT MEN GERMANY/AUSTRIA/FRANCE 96min 2009 SHIRIN
NESHAT/SHOJA AZARI
164 ADRIENN PAL Hungary|France|Austria|Netherlands/136min/2010/AGNES KOCSIS
165 ALAMAR/TO THE SEA Mexico 73min 2010 PEDRO GONZALEZ RUBIO
166 THE STRANGE CASE OF ANGELICA Portugal|Spain|France|Brazil/97min/2010
MANOEL DE OLIVEIRA
167 APART TOGETHER China 97min 2010 WANG QUAN’AN
168 BAL/HONEY Turkey|Germany 103min 2010 SEMIH KAPLANOGLU
169 CERTIFIED COPY France/Italy/Iran 106min 2010 ABBAS KIAROSTAMI
170 DAWSON ISLA 10 Chile|Brazil|Venezuela 117min 2009 MIGUEL LITTIN
171 IN A BETTER WORLD Denmark|Sweden 119min 2010 SUSSAINE BIER
172 JUST BETWEEN US Croatia| Serbia|Slovenia 89min 2010 RAJKO GRLIC
173 LITTLE ROSE POLAND 118min 2010 JAN KIDAWA-BLONSKI
174 MAMS AND PAPAS Czech Repulic 110min 2010 ALICE NELLIS
175 MAOS LAST DANCER Australia 117min 2009 BRUCE BERESFORD
176 OF LOVE AND OTHER DEMONS Costa Rica|Colombia 95min 2009
HILDA HIDALGO
177 OUTRAGE Japan 109min 2010 TAKESHI KITANO
178 SAMSON AND DELILAH Australia 101min 2009 WARWICK THORNTON
179 SILENT HOUSE Uruguay 79min 2010 GUSTAVO HERNANDEZ
180 SUBMARINO Denmark|Sweden 105min 2010 THOMAS VINTERBERG
181 THE HOUSE OF BRANCHING LOVE Finland 109min 2009 MIKA KAURISMAKI
182 THE LIGHT /KyrgyzstanGermanyFrance/Netherlands 80min 2010 AKTAN ARYM
KUBAT
183 TWO IN THE WAVE France 93min 2009 EMMANUEL LAURENT
184 THE WHITE RIBBON Austria|Germany|France|Italy/144min2009
MICHAEL HANEKE
185 ESCAPE FROM THE CALL CENTRE Italy 95min 2008 FEDERICO RIZZO
186 THE SICILIAN GIRL Italy 110min 2008 MARCO AMENTA
SPECIAL SCREENING
187 GATTURO Argentina|India|Mexico 86min 2010 ANDRES BUENO|VICTOR -
DEVASAKAYAM
T.V. CHANDRAN RETROSPECTIVE
188 PONTHANMADA India 119min 1993 T.V. CHANDRAN
189 SUSANNA India 128min 2000 T.V. CHANDRAN
190 ORMAKAL UNDAYIRIKKANAM India 90min 1995 T.V. CHANDRAN
191 MANKAMMA India 102min 1997 T.V. CHANDRAN
192 KATHAVASHESHAN India 115min 2004 T.V. CHANDRAN
193 DANNY India 121min 2001 T.V. CHANDRAN
194 AADUM KOOTHU India 110min 2005 T.V. CHANDRAN
HOMAGE SECTION
195 LAL SALAM-VENU NAGAVALLY 1990 VENU NAGAVALLY
196 VADAKKUNATHAN-GIRISH PUTHENCHERY 2006 SHAJOON KARYAL
197 MANICHITHRATHAZHU- M.G. RADHAKRISHNAN 170min 1993 FAZIL
198 KIREEDAM- COCHIN HANEEFA& SREENATH 1989 SIBI MALAYIL
199 CHEMMEEN- ADDOR PANKAJAM 140min 1965 RAMU KARIAT
200 AVAL- AZEEZ
201 SWAYAMVARAM-MANGADA RAVIVARMA
HIGHNOON MALAYALAM CINEMA
202 SWAPNADANAM India 1975 K.G. GEORGE
203 AMMA ARIYAN India 1986 JOHN ABRAHAM
204 KABANINADI CHUVANNAPPOL India 85min 1975 P.A. BACKER
205 EKANGINI India 1975 G.S. PANICKER
206 UTHARAYANAM India 1974 G. ARAVINDAN
SEMINAR SECTION FILM
207 CHAR ADHYAY India 110min 1997 KUMAR SHAHANI
SOURCE: IFFK WEBSITE

15th IFFK -Julie Dash Jury Chairperson

Julie Dash, Afro-American Director – and a faculty at Universities of Harvard, Yale, Stanford and Princeton heads the jury for the international competition section in the 15th edition International Film Festival of Kerala. The Library of Congress has placed Julie Dash’s “Daughters of the Dust” in the National Film Registry, her feature film joins a select group of American films preserved as National Treasures. Her critically acclaimed short film “Illusions”, a drama set in Hollywood 1942, won the 1989 Jury Prize for Best Film of the Decade, awarded by the Black Filmmakers Foundation.

The second member Ermek Shinarbaev from Kazakhistan is a new wave film maker . His short film The Beauty in Mourning received several awards in short film festivals in the Soviet Union. His feature film My Sister Liusia received the Jury Special prize at the Amiens International Film Festival in 1987. His third film, The Revenge, was screened at numerous international festivals, including Cannes (Un certain regard), Montreal, Cairo and Rotterdam. It received the Etienne Jules Marey and the C.I.D.A.L.C. (the International Committee for the Diffusion of Arts and Letters through Cinema) prize at the Henry Langlois International Film Festival in Tours, France, in 1992. His film My Place on the Tricorne was screened at about 20 international film festivals all over the world, and won the Golden Leopard and the FIPRESCI Award at the Locarno film Festival in 1993.

The third member Maria Novaro, is the most successful woman director of Mexican cinema , studied Sociology at the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and Film Production at the University Center of Film Studies (CUEC) in Mexico City. Novaro has been considered an expressionist Director because of the importance of colors in her films. Her work has been praised in Europe, especially in Spain, France and the United Kingdom. In Mexico she's considered a pioneer in an industry mostly dominated by men. Danzon was an instant hit in Mexico and was well received overseas.

The fourth member Apichatpong Weerasethakul is this year's 63 rd Cannes Film festival Palme d'Or winner for his film “Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives” .He won awards in many major festivals including Buenos Aires ,Rotterdam,Sao Paulo, Thessoloniki ,Vancouver ,Venice etc and Sooni Taraporevala , the fifth member is a screen writer and photographer, is best known as the screenwriter of Mississipi Masala ,The Name Sake and Salam Bombay all directed by Mira Nair.

All set for 15th International Film Festival of Kerala which begins on 10th December ,2010

The International Film Festival of Kerala is one of the grandest and most-sought-after events among film enthusiasts .This grandeur event is being organized by the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy , Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala. The festival is recognized by the FIAPF thus making it part of a prestigious circle of specialized festivals .IFFK boast’s of an exclusive and extremely popular Competition section restricted to films produced or co produced in ASIA, AFRICA & LATIN AMERICA within the last year of the festival cycle. The usual sections include world cinema, documentaries (in film formats), short fiction (in film formats), retrospectives, homage’s and tributes. . It was divided into categories like Contemporary World Cinema, New Malayalam Cinema, Retrospectives of Major filmmakers, Homage and Tributes, Contemporary Indian Cinema, Short films and Documentaries. Seminars on issues concerning cinema are included. The competition section was introduced into the festival in 1999, which is solely for films from Asia, Africa and Latin America.The prizes in this fest include - The Golden Crow Pheasant Award: Suvarna Chakoram and a cash prize to the best feature film to be shared equally by the director and the producer.The Silver Crow Pheasant Award: Rajata Chakoram and a cash prize to the best director.The Best Debut Film Award: Rajata Chakoram and a cash prize to the best début director.FIPRESCI Award: For the best film chosen by the Fédération Internationale de la Presse Cinématographique.NETPAC Award: For the best film in the competition section from Asia, chosen by the Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema.Audience Prize: Rajata Chakoram and cash prize to the Director of the most popular film voted by the festival delegates. The 15th edition of IFFK will be held at Thiruvananthapuram (formerly known as Trivandrum), the capital city of Kerala in the Southern peninsula of India from 10th - 17th December 2010.


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41st IFFI- Moner Manush directed by Guatam Ghose won Golden Peacock

Moner Manush directed by Guatam Ghose won Golden Peacock for best film and Susanne Bier of Denmark gets the Best Director Award for her film “In A Better World”
THE 11-day long 41 st International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded this evening with the screening of 'The Princess of Montpensier'(French) directed by Bertrand Tavernier .Chowdhary Mohan Jatua, Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting was the chief guest . Goa Chief Minister Digambar Kamath and eminent film personalities were present in the closing ceremony held at the Kala Academy in Panaji. National Award Winner Saif Ali Khan was the Guest of Honor. Actors Arjun Bajwa and Neetu Chandra were the anchors in the closing ceremony. A cultural programme curated by actor Gracy Singh has been presented at the function. A five member jury led by Polish filmmaker Jerzy Antczak , Emmy award winning Canadian filmmaker Sturla Gunnars, Australian legendary actor Mick Molloy and French filmmaker Oliver Pere and South Indian film actress Revathy Menon judged the films. 18 films (15 foreign and 3 Indian) feature films have competed for the International Competition Section. The section had films from China, Iran, Israel, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Russia, Poland, Czech Republic, Denmark, Mexico, New Zealand US and UK. Two new awards- Best Actor and Best Actress-were introduced this year. “ Moner Manush “directed by Guatam Ghose won Golden Peacock award for the Best Film and a Prize money of Rs.40 lakh -to be shared equally between the Director and Producer. The film is a saga of the life and times of Lalan Faqir and his liberal sect who lived a life of high order in an otherwise superstitious 19th century Indian society and developed an extremely secular and tolerant philosophy based on the bast of the liberal and enlightened tradition of Hinduism, Buddhism and Islam. Susanne Bir ,the Director of Denmark film ” In a Better World” won the Best Director award of Silver Peacock and Prize money of Rs.15 lakh. The Best Actor award with a silver peacock and cash of 10 lakh went to Turkish actor Guven Kirac for his role in the film “The Crossing” and Best Actress Award with a Silver Peacock and a Prize money of Rs.10 lakh is bagged by Magdalena Boczarska of Poland for her role in “Little Rose” The Special Jury Award with a Silver Peacock and Prize money of Rs.15 lakh was given to “Just another love story “directed by Kaushik Ganguly and “Boy” from New Zealand directed by TaikaWaititi.

'The Princess of Montpensier' to be the Closing Film at IFFI -Saif Ali Khan to be the Guest Of Honor

'The Princess of Montpensier'(French) directed by Bertrand Tavernier and competed for the Palme d'Or at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival has been choose as the closing film of the 42 nd IFFI 2010. This was announced in the Mid-Fest Press Conference by the Festival Director, Shri S.M. Khan at the Media Centre here today. Shri Choudhury Mohan Jatua, the Minister of State for Ministry of Information & Broadcasting will be the Chief Guest at the closing function. Famous actor & National Award Winner Saif Ali Khan will be the Guest of Honor. Actors Arjun Bajwa and Neetu Chandra will anchor the closing ceremony. A cultural programme curated by actor Gracy Singh will be presented at the function.

The story of The Princess of Montpensier set in France, 1562. The wars of religion between Catholics and Protestants rage against a backdrop of intrigue and shifting alliances.Marie de Mézières, a beautiful young aristocrat, and Henri de Guise, one of the kingdom's most intrepid heroes, are in love, but Marie's father promises her hand in marriage to the Prince of Montpensier. The prince takes Marie back to his chateau, where she is tutored by Chabannes, the Protestant deserter he protects, who soon falls in love with the young woman. Then, on their way back from battle, Henri de Guise and the Duke d'Anjou, the heir to the throne, stop at the chateau. Henri and Marie realize their feelings for each other are as strong as ever...

Big Budgets Have Driven Experimentation Out of Hindi Cinema:Amol Palekar

Amol Palekar noted actor-director, feels big budgets have driven sensitivity and experimentation from mainstream Hindi cinema. He was addressing a press conference on the sidelines of the 41st International Film Festival of India (IFFI), Palekar, whose Marathi film “Dhoosar” was premiered here Saturday.He further added that regional cinema has contributed “nicely and strongly” towards the palette of Indian cinema.

‘Extinction II’ Won the Golden Lamp Tree Award in short film centre-IFFI 2010

‘Extinction II’ by Shri Fernando Uson Fornies won the highest Golden Lamp Tree Award in the short film centre awards on the side lines of iffi 2010. It consists of a memento, cash prize of Rs. 5 lakh and a certificate.‘The Flower Bud’ by Ms. Shumona Banerjee bagged, the second highest award i.e. Silver Lamp Tree. The editor of the film Shri Manas Mittal received a memento, cash prize of Rs. 3 lakh and a certificate on her behalf. Ms. Sangeeta Padmanabhan (Charulata.. A Sequel of the Life Untold) bagged the Special Jury Mention Award of Rs. 2 lakh while Shri Umesh Aggarwal got the certificate of appreciation from Jury. In Environmental Competition Shri Babu Kambrath (Kaippad) and Ms. Suma Josson (Niyamgiri You Are Still Alive) shared the Vasudha Award of Rs. 3 lakh, a memento and a certificate. Chief Guest, Shri Vijay Mallya who supported the Short Film Centre and present on the occasion said that supporting creativity, entrepreneurship and youngsters has always been a policy of our group. Short Film Centre has proved as catalyst for the growth of documentary, he said in the award presentation function. Shri Digambar Kamat, Chief Minister of Goa, who shown personal interest in the Short Film Centre said that it has got a very good response and the Short Film Centre will foster not only the creation but also the marketing of short films. Shri S. M. Khan, Festival Director, Jury Members and other dignitaries were also present on the occasion.

“Reluctant Fundamentalist”- Mira Nair’s next film

Renowned Indo-American Film maker Mira Nair spoke on the need to enhance content, message and value in screenplay writing besides production standards to usher India into an era of world class film making at a press conference at IFFI 2010. She said that India has got tremendous talent in all areas of film making which needs to be supplemented with more impetus on providing thought provoking stories, subjects and themes. Retrospective of her showcases 16 films at festival. She added that script forms the real foundation of the film. Underlining the importance of rigor and rhythm in making of films which makes viewers’ heart beat not only in the country but throughout the world she said that experiencing day to day life in India and abroad provides her an opportunity and creates a vision to work on films with universal appeal . She said that problems and issues concerning under privileged people at the grassroots would always be the priorities in her films one way or the other.Eminent writer Sooni Taraporevala, actor Nana Patekar, Shafiq Syed and Dinaz Stafford were also present on the occasion.In reply to a question Mira Nair informed that her upcoming film is “Reluctant Fundamentalist” based on Pakistani writer Mohsin Hamid’s story would help her put forth her viewpoint in respect of issues like Islamophobia in the Western world especially in the South Asian perspective. She said that she looks forward to the participation of several Pakistani actors in this film project.

Michael Cacoyannis Retrospective at IFFI 2010

IFFI 2010 is also showcasing the works of veteran Cypriot Film maker Michael Cacoyonnis’s in its Retrospective Section. His classic, award winning feature films Elektra, Zorba the Greek etc are included in this package. The other films of the 88 years old film maker which are being featured are Windfall in Athens, Stella, Our Last Srping, The Day the Fish came out, The Trojan Women, Iphiginia, Sweet Country and The Cherry Orchard.

“The Princess of Montpensier “ to be the Closing Film at IFFI

-Saif Ali Khan to be the Guest Of Honor
‘The Princess of Montpensier’ (French) directed by Bertrand Tavernier and competed for the Palme d'Or at the 2010 Cannes Film Festival has been choose as the closing film of the 42 nd IFFI 2010. This was announced in the Mid-Fest Press Conference by the Festival Director, Shri S.M. Khan at the Media Centre here today. Shri Choudhury Mohan Jatua, the Minister of State for Ministry of Information & Broadcasting will be the Chief Guest at the closing function. Famous actor & National Award Winner Saif Ali Khan will be the Guest of Honor. Actors Arjun Bajwa and Neetu Chandra will anchor the closing ceremony. A cultural programme curated by actor Gracy Singh will be presented at the function.
The story of The Princess of Montpensier set in France, 1562. The wars of religion between Catholics and Protestants rage against a backdrop of intrigue and shifting alliances.Marie de Mézières, a beautiful young aristocrat, and Henri de Guise, one of the kingdom's most intrepid heroes, are in love, but Marie's father promises her hand in marriage to the Prince of Montpensier. The prince takes Marie back to his chateau, where she is tutored by Chabannes, the Protestant deserter he protects, who soon falls in love with the young woman. Then, on their way back from battle, Henri de Guise and the Duke d'Anjou, the heir to the throne, stop at the chateau. Henri and Marie realize their feelings for each other are as strong as ever...

Shankar Mohan awarded with the ‘order of merit for polish culture’

Shankar Mohan, Joint Director, Directorate of Film Festivals, Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Govt. of India and Director, Satyajit Ray Film and TV Institute, Kolkata, has been awarded with the ‘order of merit for polish culture’ (the honorary badge of merit for polish culture) – one of the highest recognitions given to persons from Poland and abroad for distinguished in creation, dissemination and protection of culture.

Dancing feet-films division films on dances and Gurus

Films division presents a ghungroo of films ,dancing feet, laced with 22 docus on Indian classical dances . Conceived as a sequel to the highly applauded film festival on music, Moments with the Maestros held as part of the 40th IFFI, Dancing Feet offers dance lovers from India and abroad glimpses of important classical dances like the Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathakali, Kathak, Mohiniattam ,Krishnanattam and Manipuri. This section also includes biopic on some of the exponents of the great art. Sitara Devi, Pt Birju Maharaj, Yamini Karishnamurthy, Sonal Mansingh, Dr. Padma Subramaniam, Raja & Radha Reddy, Uma Sharma Mallika Sarabhai etc are also being screened in the festival. All these highly decorated and celebrated artistes will also be felicitated during the festival where they shall interact with the media and the delegates.

Shyamaprasad’s Elektra,a visual treat

Shyamaprasad’s fifth film at IFFI ,Elektra, a psycho-sensual drama is a journey into the bruised familial bonds of an aristocratic household in Kerala. The film screened today at IFFI 2010, in the presence of its main cast Manisha Koirala and Director Shyamaprasad, explores the texture of desire and loss. The film has wonderful performances by Nayantara and Manisha Koirala. Talking to the media at a press Conference at Media Centre here today, Shyamaprasad said the story is based on Greek myth of Electra and set in contemporary times in an aristocratic family of Kerala. He said, it has shades of Freudian Electra complex. I want explore the themes that have endless validity and I make no attempt to whip through quasi-political narratives that lose appeal after few years. The story of Electra (a Greek mythological character) is several thousands of years old, but it is still relevant ,Shyam added.

GEORGIA CALLING

Zurab Katchkatchishvili ,Ambassador of Georgia in India has invited Indian Film Makers for engaging in co-productions with Georgian film industry. Present at IFFI at Panaji ,Goa to represent his country and its Cinema Katchkatchishvili said to media persons that Georgian government will provide incentives to the film makers, especially to Indian film makers, who opt for co-productions or shoot in Georgia.

The magic of Cannes to IFFI 2010

IFFI presents a comprehensive package of films that made it to Cannes this year. The Cannes Kaleidoscope 2010 brings These films to 41ST IFFI .. The Picks include those from Cannes Awards, Official Competition Uncertain Regard and Director’s Fortnight.
1. Des filles en noir (Young Girls In Black) by Jean Paul Civeyrac
2. Somos Lo Que Hay (We Are What We Are) by Sabina Guzzanti
3. Outrage by Takeshi Kitano
4. Route Irish by Ken Loach
5. Certified Copy by Abbas Kiarastami
6. A Screaming Man by Mahamat Saleh Haroun
7. The Tree by Julie Bertucelli
8. The City Below by christoph Hochhäusler
9. Adrienn Pal
10. Film Socialism by Jean Lun Godard

Mankada Ravi Varma passed away

Mankada Ravi Varma, one of the ace photographers in Indian Cinema, passed away in Chennai on Monday. He was 85 years old.Ravi Varma had shot into international acclaim working with directors such as Adoor Gopalakrishnan, G. Aravindan and P.N. Menon. The State government had honoured him with the J.C. Daniel award for life-time achievement. Ravi Varma was associated with most of the films of Adoor Gopalakrishnan, starting with the national award winning film Swayamvaram. RaviVarma himself had directed a few films, of which Nookukuthi won him the State award for the best photographer and a national special jury award. He also wrote a book Chitram Chala Chitram about cinematography which won him the State award for the best book on cinema. His last film with Adoor Gopalakrishnan was Nizhalkuth.

NFDC Film Bazaar Opens on the Sidelines of IFFI, 2010

The 4th edition of Film Bazaar India 2010 of the National Film Development Corporation Ltd. (NFDC) was inaugurated here today on the sidelines of IFFI, 2010. The annual film market is designed to address the current needs of filmmakers and focuses on creating business opportunities for production studios and independent producers/film makers. The idea behind Film Bazaar is to provide a proficient stage for prospective buyers & sellers of film rights from India & abroad. The 4-day Film Bazaar India’ 10 will be held from 23rd to 26th November at Goa Marriott Resort.

Industry screenings for film makers to show case their films to potential producers, distributors, agents, buyers and representatives of international film festivals is being arranged in Film Bazaar The theatres have been set-up in collaboration with UFO Moviez. With an aim to continue the age old tradition of improving trade relations between the SAARC nations, NFDC has invited projects from these countries this year. The Co-production Market will offer selected filmmakers the opportunity to present their feature film projects to co-producers, bankers, sales agents, and other potential financiers from India and abroad. The Prime Exchange will initiate market exchange between India and Europe in the field of Film and TV Production. In the Knowledge Series, NFDC presents case studies and presentations by industry experts. Leading Indian & international producers, distributors, buyers attending this year’s Film Bazaar include prominent international buyers and sales agents such as Farabi Foundation (Iran), Cinetic Rights Management (USA), Fortissimo Films(UK), The Yellow Affair (Finland), Rapid Eye Movies (Germany), Wide Management (France), Railto, (Netherland), Hanway Films (UK) and Wild Bunch (France). Festival Directors & representatives from the leading international film festivals like Cannes Film Festival, Venice Film Festival, Sundance Film Festival, Locarno Film Festival, Durban International Film Festival, Chicago International Film Festival & Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles will interact with the attendees of Film Bazaar.

Indian Panorama of IFFI inaugurated by renowned Malayalam-Tamil actor Jairam

Indian Panorama Section of 41st edition of IFFI was inaugurated this morning at Inox Screen- one by eminent South Indian Actor Jairam. Speaking on the occasion, he said the Indian Panorama Section provided a platform of excellent movies across the country and provided an opportunity for the cinematic talents to meet under the aegis of one platform.S. M. Khan, Festival Director , N. Chandra, Chairman of the Jury of the Feature Film Section Siddhartha Kak, Chairman of the Jury of Non-Feature Films participated in the opening ceremony .Jayaram also presented mementos to the directors and crew of the opening films ‘Mee Sindhutai Sapkal’(Marathi) and‘Leaving Home’ featuring the Indian Ocean Band. Indian Panorama section will screen 26 Feature & 21 Non-Feature Films

Mamta Banerjee inaugurates 41 st IFFI 2010

Films were an effective medium to depict reality through creative tools- Mamta Banerjee .
Mamta Banerjee , Railway Minister ,Govt. of India inaugurated today the 41st edition of IFFI-2010 at Kala Academy ,Panaji ,Goa. While inaugurating the fest Mamta said since its inception IFFI had provided a forum for converging cinema from all parts of the world on one platform. The IFFI platform showcased the new trends in world cinema while at the same time presented the master pieces of the Indian Panorama Section to the global audiences abroad. The Minister said that film is an effective medium to depict reality through creative tools. As an event, the Festival provided an opportunity to the Indian film industry to compete with the best in the world. The Minister said the 41st edition offered a treat to cine lovers in view of the excellent package of films being shown during the 10-day Festival. Shri C. M. Jatua ,Minister of State for Information & Broadcasting , Shri Digambar Kamat, the Chief Minister of Goa, , Shri Yash Chopra ,the eminent film director & producer, Shri S. M. Khan , Festival Director and , Ajay Devgan, Actor spoke. Actors Aftab Shivdasani and Gracy Singh compeered the inaugural function proceedings. Eminent Actor from Malayalam Jayaram was one of the film personalities honored by the organizers.

West is West –the opening film in 41st IFFI-2010

‘’It has been more than a decade since the Ayub Khan-Din-scripted East Is East liberated British-Asian cinema from the furrowed-brow earnestness that had largely been its lot. It managed to combine an effervescent cheerfulness with simple but effective points about how ethnic identity changes across successive generations of immigrants.’’ No doubt with one eye on current political debate, this belated sequel West is West looks to develop the theme and provide context to the arguments about immigration. The story develops in Manchester, North of England, in 1975. The now much diminished, but still claustrophobic and dysfunctional, Khan Family continues to struggle for survival. Sajid, the youngest Khan, the runt of the litter, is deep in pubescent crisis under heavy assault both from his father's tyrannical insistence on Pakistani tradition, and from the fierce bullies in the schoolyard. So, in a last, desperate attempt to 'sort him out', his father decides to pack him off to Mrs. Khan No 1 and family in the Punjab, the wife and daughters he had abandoned 35 years earlier. It is not long before Ella Khan (Mrs. Khan No2) with a small entourage from Salford, England, swiftly follows to sort out the mess, past and present. Critics say that television veteran Andy De Emmony’s feature film debut is colourful, generally well paced and intent on being a crowd-pleaser filled with laughter, tears and an uplifting resolution. It may not have the freshness or impact of East is East but West Is West is still a big-hearted slice of populist entertainment. It is based on the screen play of Ayub Khan-Din.Cinematographyis by Peter Robertson. Shankhar Ehsaan. Main cast did the Music. Om Puri, Aqib Khan, Linda Bassett, Ila Arun, Jimi Mistry etc are main cast of this film.

Curtain will rise for 41 st IFFI-2010 tomorrow,the 22nd November ,2010 at Panaji

All set for the 41st International Film Festival of India (IFFI), 2010. The Chief Minister of Goa, Digambar Kamat informed the crowded media persons that Awards Worth 90 lakhs to be presented in different categories and there will be300 films from 61 countries will be screened in 11 theatres. The Festival will be inaugurated by Ms. Mamta Banerjee ,Union Railway Minister and the Chief Guest of the function will be the renowned film Producer and Director Shri Yash Chopra. Famous actor, Shri Ajay Devgan will be the Guest of Honor. The opening ceremony will see Bollywood stars Aftab Shivdasani and Gracy Singh as the masters of ceremonies. An Young Jury Award for excellence in journalism has been instituted this year. The prize carries an amount of Rs. 3 lakhs. Kamat added that a host of cultural programmes, fireworks and food courts will greet and entertain the delegates attending the Festival.
During the Press Conference, the Festival Director, S. M. Khan informed the press that 18 films (15 foreign and 3 Indian) feature films have been short listed for the International Competition Section. The section has films from China, Iran, Israel, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey, Russia, Poland, Czech Republic, Denmark, Mexico, New Zealand US and UK. Awards worth 90 lakh rupees (200,000 USD) will be presented which is the highest amount to be awarded in any Festival in the world. He also informed that five awards in total will be given in the International Competition Section. For the first time, two new awards- Best Actor and Best Actress-will be awarded this year. The Best Film would be awarded Golden Peacock and given Prize money of Rs.40 lakh; the Best Director would be awarded Silver Peacock and given Prize money of Rs.15 lakh. The Best Actor and Actress would take home a Silver Peacock and given a Prize money of Rs.10 lakh each. The Special Jury Award winner would be bestowed with a Silver Peacock and given Prize money of Rs.15 lakh. Talking about the Indian Section at the Festival, Shri Khan said Centenaries of five unforgettable cinema talents – Ashok Kumar, B.R. Panthulu, Motilal, Nadia and Raja Paranjpe– are being observed by showing their films. Apart from this, the Platinum Jubilee celebrations of Odiya cinema will be conducted. Another key aspect of the festival will be the commemoration of the Golden Jubilee of the Film & Television Institute of India. Five non feature films curated by the FTII will be screened. Masterstrokes will salute cinematographer V.K.Murthy and versatile producer D. Ramanaidu – the two recent recipients of Indian Cinema’s highest honors, Dadasaheb Phalke Award. Two films, each associated with them are lined up for screening. And in the Tributes, IFFI pays tribute to those who lived a full cinema life by offering screenings in memory of those film personalities who are no more. This includes Bina Rai, Pamela Rooks, Sujit Kumar, Keshu Ramsay, Debu Deodhar, Pankaj Advani, Nirmal Pandey, Tahir Hussain, Vishnuvardhan and Ravi Baswani. He also informed the media that a new section Academy Interest is being introduced from 2010. From this year, 3 Indian films from Panorama would be making it to the International competition category. Another new feature will be the Master Classes being taken by Oscar winner Rasul Pookutty on sound technology, evolution of comedy in cinema by Boman Irani etc. A key highlight of the festival pertains to the foreign section participation during the festival. There will be a Cannes Kaleidoscope 2010, a comprehensive package of films that made into Cannes this year. The films include ‘Film Socialism’ by Jean Lun Godard. There will also be a package of ten Iranian films and four Taiwanese films with high aesthetic content to be represented by respective film makers, cast and crew members. Amongst the retrospectives scheduled for prominent film makers, the list includes Jan Jakub Kolski Retrospective, Jim Jarmusch Restrospective, Michael Cacoyannis Retrospective and Mira Nair Retrospective. The country focus during the festival shall be Mexico, Georgia and Sri Lanka. There will be Sections on Taiwanese New Wave Cinema and Australian Indigenous Fiction Films. IFFI would also pay homage to the Iconic French film maker, Eric Rohmer, who passed away this year. Six of his films would be screened. As a reply to the question by this reporter the Festival Director said that the FIPRESCI jury has not been constituted and there will not be any Critics’ Award this year ,as announced.

NFAI’S Exhibition respects Dada Saheb Phalke awardees at IFFI 2010

Honoring all the Dada Saheb Phalke awardees who have contributed to the growth of Indian Cinema, the National Film Archive of India (NFAI), Pune will organize an Exhibition of Wall posters and Photographs at the 41st International Film Festival of India (IFFI), 2010. The exhibition will be displayed at the Art Gallery, Kala Academy, Panjim, Goa. The Exhibition gives an insight into the devotion and dedication of these awardees, and also highlights their special attributes. Intersperse with relevant write-ups and informative captions, this Exhibition will present the diverse and rich heritage of our film culture.

International Jury at 41st IFFI 2010

The 5 member International Jury at 41st IFFI 2010 with Jerzy Antczak, Writer, Director & Producer as its President , Mick Molloy, Revathy Menon, Olivier Père and Sturla Gunnarsson as members has the task to select peacock awards from 18 feature films(15 foreign and 3 Indian) short listed for the International Competition. Mick Molloy is one of Australia’s most recognized and successful comedians , Olivier Père the Artistic Director of the Locarno International Film Festival (Switzerland), Revathy Menon, well known Actor/Director with more than 100 films in five Indian languages in her credit . Sturla Gunnarsson is one of Canada’s most prolific filmmakers and the national president of the Directors Guild of Canada. At this year's 10-day 41st International Film Festival of India (IFFI) the competition section has been thrown open to all feature films from across the world. Earlier, this section was restricted to feature films from Asia, Asia Pacific, Africa and Latin America. Another key change in this year's festival is the introduction of the Best Actor and Best Actress awards. The best actor and actress will each get a Silver Peacock and prize money of Rs 10 lakh.

Yash Chopra to inaugurate 41st IFFI 2010

Yash Chopra, known Director of many a Hindi films will inaugurate the 41st International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2010, according to S.M.Khan,Festival Director ."Orissa will be the focus state because it is celebrating 75 years of cinema," he added.

NFDC Film Bazar - at 41st IFFI-German /Turkish director Fatih Akin to handle Masterclass

The acclaimed young German/Turkish writer- director Fatih Akin (37) will participate in the Master Class programme of the 4^th edition of the Film Bazaar that is being organized by the National Film Development Corporation Ltd (NFDC) . Over the past decade, Fatih Akin has established himself as one of world cinema’s most distinctive voices, mixing sophisticated cultural critiques with a healthy appreciation for life on the edge. His first film came to international attention Head-On ("Gegen Die Wand"- 2004), which won the Berlinale Golden Bear and the German and European Film Awards. In 1995, Fatih wrote and directed his first short feature, "Sensin - You're The One!" ("Sensin - Du Bist Es!"), which received the Audience Award at the Hamburg International Short Film Festival. His second short film, "Weed" ("Getuerkt", 1996), received several national and international festival prizes. His first full length feature film, "Short Sharp Shock" ("Kurz Und Schmerzlos", 1998) won the Bronze Leopard at Locarno and the Bavarian Film Award (Best Young Director) in 1998. His other films include: "In July" ("Im Juli", 2000), "Wir Haben Vergessen Zurueckzukehren" (2001), "Solino" (2002) etc.

The other highlights of the current edition of film bazar are: 1. Participation of the film fraternity from the SAARC (South Asian Association of Regional Cooperation) nations. 2. Meet the Festivals: This forum will have festival directors and representatives of various film festivals present to interact with the patrons. 3. Screenwriters Lab: Organized by the NFDC, Binger Filmlab of the Netherlands and the Locarno Film Festival, it is a 2-part screenwriters’ workshop for writing and selling original Indian screenplays, the first part of which was held at Locarno.4. Co-production Market: This initiative undertaken by NFDC aims to offer selected filmmakers the opportunity to present their feature film projects (in all languages and at any stage of production) to co producers. 5. PrimeExchange: The main aim of PRIMEXCHANGE is to initiate market exchange and the exchange of ideas between India and Europe in the field of Film and TV Production. 6. Work in Progress Lab: The Work in Progress lab is held at Film Bazaar for feature films at a rough cut stage, whose makers are seeking feedback from experienced film professionals from the international community. 7. Knowledge Series: NFDC Knowledge Series presents case studies and presentations by industry experts. In 2009, about 350 delegates from 22 countries attended the Film Bazaar. This year prominent buyers and sales agents like Farabi Foundation (Iran), Cinetic Rights Management (USA), Fortissimo Films (UK), The Yellow Affair (Finland), Rapid Eye Movies (Germany), Wide Management (France), Railto, (Netherland), Hanway Films (UK) and Wild Bunch (France) have reportedly confirmed their attendance at the film bazar.--meerasahib@columnist.com

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Indian Premiere in IFFI 2010

O Maria directed by Rajendra N. Talak (Konkani), Dhoosar (Blur) directed by Amol Palekar (Marathi), Nauka Doobi (Boat wreck) directed by Rituparno Ghosh (Bengali) are the films selected to be screened under the Indian Premiere section of the 41st International Film Festival of India, Goa 2010

Critics’ Prize-Fipresci award- in IFFI 2010

Government of India in the Information and Broadcasting Ministry has decided to introduce the FIPRESCI award (Fédération Internationale de la Presse Cinématographique -International Federation of Film Critics) for Indian Panorama Feature Films from the 41st edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI ).This is a long awaited initiative. The International Federation of Film Critics is an association of national organizations of professional film critics and film journalists from around the world for "the promotion and development of film culture and for the safeguarding of professional interests." It was founded in June 1930 in Brussels, Belgium. At present it has members in more than 50 countries worldwide. The FIPRESCI often gives out awards during film festivals (such as the Toronto International Film Festival, the Cannes Film Festival, the Venice Film Festival ,the Warsaw International Film Festival and in India in the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK)) to the critically acclaimed films . Festival Awards are presented at a series of international festivals. Special Awards are also being presented to the best choices of the year. Roman Polanski's The Ghost Writer is the winner of the Grand Prix 2010 for the Best Film of the Year, as a result of the poll in which 296 critics, worldwide members of FIPRESCi, participated. Every year at the Rio de Janeiro International Film Festival, FIPRESCI honors a Latin American film personality. This year, the award has been presented to Argentinean filmmaker and producer Pablo Trapero and his actress Martina Gusman. "Pablo Trapero and Martina Gusman are one of the biggest creative forces of the last decade in Argentinean cinema and will doubtless be a great inspiration for future generations of Latin American directors and producers", writes Diego Lerer .At Rio de Janeiro , Diary, Letters, Revolutions, the documentary by Brazilian Flavia Castro, won the Critics' Prize . The Critics' Prize has unanimously been awarded to the film Hitler in Hollywood by Belgium director Frédéric Sojcher in Karlovy Vary. Winter Vacation (Han Jia), directed by Li Honqqi (China, 2010), has been selected by the critics' jury (FIPRESCI Prize) in Locarno.

26 FILMS SELECTED FOR INDIAN PANORAMA –41st International Film Festival of India -IFFI 2010 .

A 10-member Feature film jury headed by Shri N. Chandra selected the following 26 feature films for this year's Indian Panorama section of IFFI.
1.Tere Bin Laden- Hindi- Directed by Abhishek Sharma,
2.Mummy & Me- Malayalam - Jeethu Joseph
3.Achin Paakhi- Bengali- Das
4.Pail Te Sumbaran- Marathi-Gajendra Ahire
5.Jhing Chik Jhing-Marathi-Shishir Kulkarni
6.Vihir-Marathi-Umesh Kulkarni
7.Abohomaan-Bengali-Rituparno Ghosh
8.Makaramanju-Malayalam-Lenin Rajendran
9.Moner Manush-Bengali- Anjan Goutam Ghose
10.Kaal Chilambu-Malayalam-M.T. Annoor
11.Elektra-Malayalam-Shyama Prasad
12.Kanasemba Kudureyaneri-Kannada-Girish Kasaravalli
13.Athma Kadha-Tamil-Premlal
14.I Am Kalam-Hindi-Nila Madhab Panda
15.Aidu Ondola Aidu-Kannada-V.K. Prakash
16.Angadi Theru-Tamil-G. Vasanta Balan
17.Prasthanam-Telugu-,Deva Katta
18.Wake up Sid-Hindi,Ayan Mukerji
19.Just Another Love Story-English-Kaushik Ganguly
20.Ami Aadu-Bengali-Somnath Gupta
21.Paa-Hindi-R. Balakrishnan
22.3 Idiots-Hindi-Rajkumar Hirani
23.Raavanan-Tamil-Mani Ratnam
24. Mee Sindhutai Sapkal-Marathi-Ananth Narayan Mahadevan
25.Shabari-Kannada-Baraguru Ramachandrappa
26.Swayamsiddha-Oriya-Sudhanshu Mohan Sahoo

Debut Films Nominated For Efa Discovery - Prix FIPRESCI - Award

The European Film Academy has announced this year’s nominations for the EUROPEAN DISCOVERY - Prix FIPRESCI, an award presented annually as part of the European Film Awards to a young and upcoming director for a first full-length feature film. This year’s nominations were determined by a committee comprised of EFA Board Member Els Vandevorst (the Netherlands), EFA Member Pierre-Henri Deleau (France), and experts Jacob Neiiendam (director of the film festival CPH:PIX, Denmark), Alin Tasciyan (film critic, Turkey), and Mariola Wiktor (Forum of European Cinema, Poland), all of them members of FIPRESCI, the International Federation of Film Critics. Nominated are:
1)La doppia ora (The Double Hour), Italy- directed by Giuseppe Capotondi-written by Alessandro Fabbri, Ludovica Rampoldi & Stefano Sardo-produced by Nicola Giuliano & Francesca Cima
2)Eu cand vreau sa fluier, fluier (If I Want to Whistle, I Whistle), Romania
directed by Florin Serban-written by Catalin Mitulescu & Florin Serban-produced by Catalin Mitulescu
3)Die Fremde (When We Leave), Germany-written & directed by Feo Aladag-produced by Feo Aladag & Züli Aladag
4)Lebanon, Israel/Germany/France-written & directed by Samuel Maoz-produced by Moshe Edery, Leon Edery, David Silber, Uri Sabag, Einat Bickel, Benjamina Mirnik & Illan Girard
5)Nothing Personal, The Netherlands/Ireland-written & directed by Urszula Antoniak
produced by Reinier Selen & Edwin van Meurs
The nominated films will now be made available to all 2,300 members of the European Film Academy. They will vote for the winner who will be announced at the 23rd European Film Awards on 4 th December ,2010 in Tallinn/Estonia.

23 rd Tokyo International Film Festival from October 23rd to 31st, 2010

This year marks the 23rd edition of the Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF). As the only Japanese film festival accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers Associations (FIAPF), TIFF has played an integral role in Japan's film industry and cultural scene since it was establishment in 1985. TIFF aspires to be recognized as one of the four major film festivals in the world and in the same league as Cannes, Venice and Berlin, which now stand at the summit of the more than 2,600 international film celebrations.Over the nine days of the Festival, films from a variety of genres will be shown in several intriguing sections: Competition, which selects the "Tokyo Sakura Grand Prix" from a carefully chosen ensemble of premiere films presented by both　talented first-timers and recognized directors; Special Screenings, which premieres highly entertaining films prior to their public release in Japan; Winds of Asia – Middle East, which boasts the largest number of films and audiences in all the TIFF screenings; Japanese Eyes, which showcases a broad range of Japanese films for worldwide audiences; and natural TIFF highlighting films that explore the coexistence of making and nature.In accordance with the theme of ecology, TIFF will again unroll the Green Carpet and use "Green Power"(ecologically friendly energy sources) for screenings. A symposium focused on the environment will be held, and the "TOYOTA Earth Grand Prix" will be presented to an outstanding new film that gives due consideration to nature, the environment and ecology. We will make an effort to raise awareness of the importance of protecting our environment and preserving natural resources for the next generation through the festival.
The Tokyo International Film Festival (TIFF) has announced that the award-winning Irish filmmaker Neil Jordan will be the Jury President for the International Competition at the 23rd TIFF. Jordan's films have been honored with numerous awards worldwide including the Oscar (The Crying Game), and BAFTAs for (Crying Game, The End Of The Affair). Company Of Wolves, his second film, was selected for the first year of TIFF's Competition section in 1985. The 23rd edition of the Tokyo International Film Festival will take place from October 23rd to 31st, 2010. International Competition President - Neil Jordan / Director BiographyBorn in 1950 in Sligo, Ireland, Neil Jordan began his career as a writer. His first book of stories, Night In Tunisia (1976) won the Guardian Fiction prize. Since then he has published five novels, The Past (1979), The Dream Of A Beast (1983), Sunrise With Sea Monster (1994), Shade (2005). His most recent novel, Mistaken will be published in 2011. In 1982 Jordan wrote and directed his first feature film, Angel. Since then he has written, directed and produced more than fifteen films, including Company Of Wolves, Mona Lisa, The Crying Game, Interview With The Vampire, The End Of The Affair, The Butcher Boy, Breakfast On Pluto, The Good Thief and most recently, Ondine. His films have been honoured with numerous awards worldwide, including an Oscar, Baftas, Golden Globes, A Golden Lion from The Venice Film festival and a Silver Bear from Berlin. He has been awarded five honorary doctorates and in 1996 he was appointed Officier of the French Ordres des Artes et des Lettres.

San Sebastian Film Festival- 58 th Edition Awards - 2010

Golden Shell for best film to “Neds” by Peter Mullan (Uk-France-Italy),Special Jury Award to “Elisa K” by Judith Colell and Jordi Cadena (Spain) for the way it portrays the violence to which innocent people are exposed to in everyday life,Silver Shell for Best Director to Raúl Ruiz for “Mistérios De Lisboa” (Portugal),Silver Shell for Best Actress to Nora Navas for “Pa Negre” (Spain) ,Silver Shell for Best Actor to Connor Mccarron for “Neds” (Uk-France-Italy), Jury Prize for Best Cinematography to Jimmy Gimferrer for “Aita” (Spain) ,Jury Prize for Best Screenplay to Bent Hamer for “Home For Christmas“ (Norway-Sweden-Germany),Special mention to “A Jamaâ” by Daoud Aoulad-Syad (Morocco-France) for the complexity achieved by a simple story,
Kutxa–New Directors Award "Los Colores De La Montaña", Carlos César Arbeláez (Colombia-Panama),Special mention"La Vida Útil", Federico Veiroj (Uruguay-Spain),Special mention "Smukke Mennesker/Nothing’s All Bad", Mikkel Munch-Fals (Denmark),Zontes Award "Abel", Diego Luna (Mexico) ,Special mention "A Tiro De Piedra", Sebastián Hiriart (Mexico),Tcm-Audience Award"Barney’s Version", Richard J. Lewis (Canada-Italy),Award to the European film"How Much Does Your Building Weigh, Mr. Foster?", Norberto López Amado, Carlos Carcas (Uk-Spain),Euskaltel Youth Award
"Abel", Diego Luna (Mexico),Tve-Another look award "Cerro Bayo", Victoria Galardi (Argentina),special mention "Blog", Elena Trapé (Spain),Films in Progress Industry Award "Entre La Noche Y El Día", Bernardo Arellano (Mexico) ,Casa de América Award
"Asalto Al Cine", Iria Gómez Concheiro (Mexico),Cinema in motion Award "Sur La Planche", Leïla Kilani (Morocco-France).ix international film students meeting awards
Panavisión Award "Los Minutos, Las Horas", Janaína Marqués Escuela Internacional de Cine Y Tv (Cuba), Second Prize"Miten Marjoja Poimitaan", Elina Talvensaari Aalto University (Finland),Third Prize "Ambiente Familiar", Carlos Leiva Pontificia Universidad Católica (Chile)

Critics' Prizes in Venice and Montreal International Film Festivals

Venice (Italy, September 1-11, 2010).
Fipresci jury headed by Derek Malcolm (Great Britain, president) awarded prize in Venice Competition "Venezia 67" to: "Silent Souls" (Ovsyanki) by Aleksei Fedorchenko (Russia, 2010),from Parallel sections (Horizons, Critics' Week) to: "Room 164" (El Sicario) by Gianfranco Rosi (France, Italy, 2010), presented in "Horizons" (documentary). Other members of Fipresci jury were Belinda van de Graaf, The Netherlands; Sandra Hall, Australia; Ann Lind Andersen, Denmark; Augusto Orsi, Switzerland; Pamela Messi, France; Francisco Ferreira, Portugal; Bojidar Manov, Bulgaria; Paola Casella, Italy.
Montreal (Canada, August 26 – September 6, 2010).
Fipresci jury headed by Andrea Dittgen( Germany, president) awarded Prize to: "The Day I Was Not Born" (Das Lied in mir) by Florian Cossen (Germany, 2010). Other members of the jury were Jon Frosch, France; Anders Larsson, Sweden; Utpal Borpujari, India; Mario Abbade, Brazil; Diego Cabrera, Peru; Jake Wilson, Australia; Pascal Grenier, Canada.

67th Venice International Film Festival

The 67th Venice International Film Festival, organized by La Biennale di Venezia, ran 1st to 11th September 2010 at Venice Lido.The aim of the Festival is to raise awareness and promote all the various aspects of international cinema in all its forms: as art, entertainment and as an industry, in a spirit of freedom and tolerance. The Festival includes retrospectives and homages to major figures as a contribution towards raising awareness of the history of cinema. Marco Müller is the Director of the 67th edition. He has been heading the Venice Biennale's Cinema section since 2004.On September 11, the 67th Venice Film Festival came to a close. The awards ceremony took place in the Palazzo del Cinema. Golden Lion for best film went to Somewhere by Sofia Coppola.Silver Lion for best director to Álex de la Iglesia for Balada triste de trompeta. Special Jury Prize to Essential Killing by Jerzy Skolimowsi. Coppa Volpi for Best Actor to Vincent Gallo in the film Essential Killing by Jerzy Skolimowsi. Coppa Volpi for Best Actress to Ariane Labed in the film Attenberg by Athina Rachel Tsangari (Greece).
Critics' Prizes
Fipresci jury headed by Derek Malcolm (Great Britain, president) awarded prize in Competition "Venezia 67" to: "Silent Souls" (Ovsyanki) by Aleksei Fedorchenko (Russia, 2010),from Parallel sections (Horizons, Critics' Week) to: "Room 164" (El Sicario) by Gianfranco Rosi (France, Italy, 2010), presented in "Horizons" (documentary). Other members of Fipresci jury were Belinda van de Graaf, The Netherlands; Sandra Hall, Australia; Ann Lind Andersen, Denmark; Augusto Orsi, Switzerland; Pamela Messi, France; Francisco Ferreira, Portugal; Bojidar Manov, Bulgaria; Paola Casella, Italy.

Official Jury at the 58th San Sebastian Festival announced

Goran Paskaljevic to chair the Official Jury at the 58th San Sebastian Festival. The Serbian filmmaker, Goran Paskaljevic, with 45 films to his name, is a regular at the major festivals. He won the Fipresci Prize at Venice Festival and at the European Film Awards with Powder Keg (1998). He has participated in San Sebastian Festival twice: in 1990 with Vreme Cuda (Time of Miracles), which carried off the Fipresci Prize, and in 2004 with San zimske noci (Midwinter Night’s Dream), winner of the Special Jury Prize.The make-up artist, Jo Allen, actor José Coronado, directors Claudia Llosa, Raya Martin, Pablo Trapero and Lucy Walker are the other six members of the Official Jury. ''Elle s'appelait Sarah (Sarah’s Key)'', by the French filmmaker Gilles Paquet-Brenner, will be the closing film in the 58th San Sebastian Festival. ''Poetry'' and ''Barney’s Version'' will respectively open and close Zabaltegi-Pearls.Actress Olivia Williams will receive the Fipresci Gran Prix for Roman Polanski’s ''The Ghost Writer'' at the opening gala. Hans Petter Moland, Sebastián Cordero and Danis Tanovic will chair the New Directors, Horizontes and International Film Students Meetings, respectively.

Berlinale Talent Campus #9 — The Talent Press

Berlinale Talent Campus, Goethe-Institut and FIPRESCI invite young film critics to Berlin for a project of the Berlinale Talent Campus, Goethe-Institut, and FIPRESCI (the International Federation of Film Critics). Young film critics and film journalists will be invited to Berlin to report on the films at the 61st Berlin International Film Festival (February 10–20, 2011) and on the events of the Berlinale Talent Campus (February 12–17, 2011).The call for applications for the Talent Press is now open. Young film critics or journalists fluent in English (in writing and speaking); eager to report on films screened at the Berlin International Film Festival and on events held during the Berlinale Talent Campus 2011;and having published articles in newspapers, film magazines, on websites or at universities are eligible. The application regulations can also be found online at www.berlinale-talentcampus.de and www.fipresci.org)

Roman Polanski's "The Ghost Writer" won FIPRESCI Grand Prix 2010

Roman Polanski's The Ghost Writer is Best Film of the Year, according to the members of the International Federation of Film Critics – FIPRESCI who voted for the Grand Prix 2010. The 296 film critics from throughout the world that took part in the poll expressed their preference among the feature-length films premièred during the previous year (after July 1, 2009), according this distinct sign of critical acclaim to The Ghost Writer. Leading actress Olivia Williams will receive the FIPRESCI Grand Prix 2010 on behalf of the film's team on Friday, September 17th, at the opening ceremony of the San Sebastian International Film Festival (ww.sansebastianfestival.com), which hosts this special prize since its creation in 1999. Previous recipients of the Grand Prix, which distinguishes a film’s overall artistic quality, have been: Pedro Almodóvar (All About My Mother, 1999, and Volver, 2006), Paul Thomas Anderson (Magnolia, 2000 and There Will Be Blood, 2008), Jafar Panahi (The Circle, 2001), Aki Kaurismäki (The Man Without a Past, 2002), Nuri Bilge Ceylan (Uzak, 2003), Jean-Luc Godard (Notre musique, 2004), Kim Ki-Duk (Iron 3, 2005), Cristian Mungiu (4 Months, 3 Weeks and 2 Days, 2007) and Michael Haneke (The White Ribbon).

NFDC’S CO- PRODUCTION MARKET AT IFFI-2010 FILM BAZAAR

National Film Development Corporation Ltd. (NFDC) has finalized the organization of aCo-production Market as part of the Film Bazaar India’ 10. This film market specially designed for the filmmakers will be held alongside the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa. This initiative undertaken by NFDC aims to offer selected filmmakers the opportunity to present their feature film projects to co producers, bankers, funds, sales agents, distributors, TV stations and other potential financiers from India and abroad. The Co production Market at Film Bazaar presents to the world feature-length (75 mins or more) fiction projects that are Indian stories. At Film Bazaar these selected projects receive the opportunity to be pitched by their representatives to potential collaborators for finance, distribution and artistic support through one-to-one meetings. NFDC invites application from filmmakers to participate in Co-production market if seeking for international partner to participate in your project in any aspect (E.g. Locations, Composers, Artists or Technicians) and if an experienced filmmaker is looking towards reaching world cinema markets/audiences. A film maker can even apply if the film qualifies for co-production status under one of the international co-production treaties signed by India. The Film Bazaar selection committee will screen the applications and select deserving 10 projects for the 2010 edition. Applications will be accepted till September 30, 2010 at the NFDC offices.The main criterion for selection is that the film must be original, authentic and balance an Indian story with a universal theme. Films at the stages of anywhere between development, preproduction or production, as long as there is a producer attached to the project, are eligible to apply.All applications must be posted / couriered / hand- delivered to any of the NFDC offices addressed to “Film Bazaar Co-production Market 2010.” For further details log on to www.filmbazaarindia.com

The National Film Development Corporation Ltd. (NFDC)organizes Screenwriters’ Lab

The National Film Development Corporation Ltd. (NFDC),has decided to conduct a Screenwriters’ Lab 2010, a two-part Screen Writers’ Workshop for writing and selling original Indian screenplays, in association with Binger Filmlab and Locarno International Film Festival. This decision of the National Film Development Corporation Ltd. (NFDC) is in keeping with the mandate of promoting the development of the Cinemas of India. A 2-part workshop is designed to prepare screenwriters’ with original Indian stories for working with the international filmmaking market place. It aims at improving a completed screenplay in its final stages and to increase the international marketability of the same.The first part will be held from 7th – 9th August, 2010 at the Locarno International Film Festival, Locarno, Switzerland where participants will get first-hand experience of the workings of the international film community and get to train with their screenplay mentors.
The 2nd part at Film Bazaar, Goa from 23th – 26th November 2010 is where participants will apply their training and pitch their revised screenplays to participants at the film market to be held during IFFI 2010.The workshop will be conducted by Marten Rabarts, Artistic Director, Binger Filmlab, aided by experienced international guest mentors.Those who interested have to submit entry form along with screenplay in classic format, Log-line, one page synopsis along with screenwriters’ CV in English. A letter of intent and a DVD of previous work (if existing)as per the guidelines given in the application available online at www.filmbazaarindia.com or by contacting thro email writers@nfdcindia.com . The last date being 17th May, 2010.

Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood to Open the Cannes Film Festival(Festival de Cannes) 2010 from 12th to 23rd May 2010

"The Festival is an apolitical no-man's-land, a microcosm of what the world would be like if people could contact each other directly and speak the same language." Jean Cocteau.
Ridley Scott’s Robin Hood , the story of an archer in the army of Richard Coeur de Lion who fights against the Norman invaders and becomes the legendary hero known as Robin Hood , to Open the Cannes Film Festival. Films of Kitano, Kiarostami, Iñárritu, Leigh etc would be added attractions of Cannes 2010.
The Festival International du Film was supposed to begin in Cannes in 1939, but due to the war, the launch date was put off. Finally, on 20 September 1946 the Festival de Cannes opened its doors, the first great international cultural event of the post-war period.
The Festival was organised as a non-profit organisation, managed by a Board of Directors and was to become "state-approved" as in 1972. The Festival de Cannes has celebrated the cinema for more than 60 years. Over the years, the French Association of the International Film Festival has been able to evolve whilst retaining the essential: the passion for motion pictures, discovery of new talents, and enthusiasm of festival-goers and professionals from around the world, all contributing to the birth and distribution of films.The Festival de Cannes has always been the reflection of its era: a centre for all cultures and hopes, a spring of effervescence and, above all, transmission.Defining ambitious and different projects, giving the possibility to budding filmmakers to emerge. A showcase of talents with respect of all tastes.At the heart of the Festival: that which is long awaited and celebrated in the different selections: the Competition, Un Certain Regard, films Out of Competition, Special Screenings, and Cinéfondation's competition of shorts and film school productions. Together, they represent an anthology of singular works, original cinematic approaches, discoveries and confirmation of talents, highlighted and awarded by the juries.
The Caméra d'Or Prize is awarded to the best first film presented in the Official Selection (Competition and Un Certain Regard), Directors' Fortnight or International Critics' Week.
The Cinéfondation, in addition to the selection, supports the new generation of international cinema through its Residence and Atelier.
The Short Film Corner, created in 2004, is dedicated to promoting short films.
First list of Programme and jury list for Cannes 2010 have been announced . Robin Hood Directed by Ridley Scott will be the opening film :.The Feature Film Jury: The President of the Jury will be Tim Burton and on the jury: Kate Beckinsale – Actress / United Kingdom,Giovanna Mezzogiorno – Actress / Italy), Alberto Barbera – Director of the National Museum of Cinema / Italy, Emmanuel Carrere – Author – Screenwriter – Director /France, Benicio Del toro – Actor / Porto Rico, Victor Erice - Director/ Spain, Shekhar Kapur - Director – Actor – Producer / India
Cinéfondation and Short Film Jury: The President of the Jury will be Atom Egoyan (Director/ Canada) and on the Jury:Emmanuelle Devos - Actress/ France,Dinara Droukarova - Actress/ Russia,Carlos Diegues - Director / Brazil,Marc Recha - Director / Spain.
Un Certain Regard Jury:
Claire DENIS, President - Director / France
Competition films :
Mathieu Amalric TOURNÉE(On Tour),Xavier Beauvois DES HOMMES ET DES DIEUX (Of God And Men),Rachid Bouchareb HORS LA LOI(Outside Of The Law),Alejandro González IÑÁRRITU BIUTIFUL,Mahamat-Saleh Haroun UN HOMME QUI CRIE(A Screaming Man),IM Sangsoo THE HOUSEMAID,Abbas Kiarostami COPIE CONFORME(Certified Copy),Takeshi Kitano OUTRAGE,Lee Chang-dong POETRY,Mike Leigh ANOTHER YEAR,Doug Liman FAIR GAME,Sergei Loznitsa MY JOY,Daniele Luchetti LA NOSTRA VITA(Our Life),Nikita Mikhalkov UTOMLYONNYE SOLNTSEM 2,Bertrand Tavernier LA PRINCESSE DE MONTPENSIER(The Princess Of Montpensier),Apichatpong weerasethakul LONG BOONMEE RALEUK CHAT(Uncle Boonmee Who Can Recall His Past Lives).

The 3rd Subversive Film Festival with the theme Socialism

The 3rd Subversive Film Festival whose theme this year explores "Socialism", will be held from 1 to 25 May in the following locations: in the Europa, Tuškanac, Grič and SC cinemas and in the building of the former Museum of Contemporary Art. As previous festivals, this year’s festival will also include a rich film, theoretical and artistic programme as well as a range of other events.The neo-liberal utopia has died at least twice in the 21st century: once on 9/11 and the second time with the financial crash of 2008. If it was ever clear that the current economic and political model is not sustainable in the long term, then it is so today. In accordance with this, the question is posed about a possible alternative. The 1st Subversive Film Festival was dedicated to the anniversary of ’68 and the second to the 60th anniversary of the Chinese Revolution. The 3rd Subversive Film Festival will round off these themes by looking at – socialism.What is new this year is that the theoretical and film programmes will be separated. A large international conference will be held in the Europa Cinema from 3 to 7 May entitled "The crash of neo-liberalism and the idea of socialism today", whose directors are Slavoj Žižek and Srećko Horvat. As well as our already traditional guest Žižek, numerous intellectuals have confirmed their attendance such as Gianni Vattimo, Samir Amin, Michail Ryklin, G. M. Tamas, Michael Lebowitz and others. Alongside them, 30 participants from Croatia and the region will also take part (Boris Buden, Igor Štiks, Andrej Nikolaidis and many others). Noam Chomsky and Michael Hardt will participate via video-link. All lectures will include simultaneous translation in Croatian.This year’s film programme has three focuses. Throughout almost the whole of May (1-25 May) in Tuškanac Cinema the public will have a unique opportunity to watch a large retrospective of Yugoslav film, through all-evening projections of 75 feature films originating from the period from the beginning of the 50s until the end of the 80s, as well as a retrospective of the works of Živojin Žika Pavlović. As an item of special interest within Yugoslav cinematography the Zagreb School of Animated Film will be highlighted and will be presented by around 100 titles, including a retrospective of Dušan Vukotić.The second part of the programme, which will be held in the Student Centre Cinema from 9 to 15 May brings a selection of Latin American and Eastern European cinematography, representing the revolutionary film modernism of the 60s and 70s as well as a cross-section of contemporary Latin American film production.
The third segment of the film programme, entitled "Film as subversive art", will take place in the attractive and intimate space of Grič Cinema, and in the period from 17 to 22 May will be presented authors of contemporary political film, a three-day film theoretical school and a three-day film theoretical symposium, during which some twenty film authors and theoreticians from the region and abroad will critically reconstruct the phenomenon of Yugoslav film.
In cooperation with Kultura Promjene, the Subversive Film Festival has also prepared some real musical treats such as Tindersticks, Secret Chiefs 3 and Cinkuši; these artists will hold concerts in the Student Centre.
And finally, in the building of the former Museum of Contemporary Art the already celebrated curators’ collective WHW – What, How and for Whom in association with the Subversive Film Festival will prepare an exhibition entitled “Art always has consequences”. This will be open from 8 May to 2 June.

Free Software Movement of India

The delegates participating in the National Conference on Free Software being held at Bangaluru have decided to form a consortium of organizations and movements working to popularise free software namely the Free Software Movement of India . Joseph Thomas from Kerala was elected as the President and Kiran Chandra from AP as the Secretary of FSMI.