Sunday, 22 December 2024 00:00 |
NETPAC Award Results at the 29th IFF of Kerala
The 29th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), organised by the Chalachitra Academy of Kerala on behalf of the Department of Cultural Affairs, Government of Kerala, was successfully held from 13th to 20th December 2024 at Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
The Festival is recognised by FIAPF. With the participation of masters of world cinema and fine selection of films from all over the world the IFFK has arguably become one of the most remarkable film events in India.
NETPAC Award Results at 29th International Film Festival of Keralaб India, 13 – 20 December 2024
Jury Members:
Gulbara Tolomushova (Kyrgyzstan) – Chairperson Deepa Gahlot (India) Nomuunzul Turmunkh (Mongolia)
Best film in International competition at the 29th IFFK: “Me, Maryam, the Children and 26 others”, Iran-Germany, 2024, 101’, Persian, directed by Farshad Hashemi
Citation: “The film takes a gentle look at the sense of community in a shooting unit and the life-affirming power of cinema”.
Brief Synopsis:When Mahboubeh, a woman in her thirties, decides to rent out her home to a film crew for a six days, her peaceful and solitary existence is suddenly disrupted. Intrigued by the group’s dynamics and inspired by the storyline of the short film, Mahboubeh finds herself compelled to confront unresolved aspects of her past. As the final day of their stay approaches, she faces a pivotal choice: cling to the familiarity of her life or embracing the opportunity for a transformative new chapter.
Best Malayalam film at the 29th IFFK: “Feminist Fathima”, India, 2024, 100’, Malayalam, directed by Fazil Muhammed
Citation: “The film takes down patriarchy with humour and shows how sisterhood can sprout when the time is right”.
Brief Synopsis: Fathima, a housewife in the coastal town of Ponnani, lives under the strict control of her orthodox husband, Ashraf. When her son wets their old mattress, Fathima’s attempt to replace it triggers conflict. Ashraf opposes her at every step despite her back pain and growing frustration. Eventually, Fathima realizes the mattress symbolizes more than just comfort – it represents her chance to reclaim her independence. By finally purchasing it, she takes a bold stand.
Special Jury Mention: “Kiss Wagon”, India, 2023, 174’, Malayalam, directed by Midhun Murali
Citation: “An Orwellian satire repurposed for current times with the imaginative use of animation”.
Brief synopsis: In tumultuous “Mountland”, ruled by a wealthy tyrant, Ms. Isla runs a parcel service. With the major religious festival, “Atgaba”, approaching, she receives an unusual parcel destined for a strange address from a VIP. Isla, an extremely self-centered girl, never knew what a roller coaster ride she would encounter in her upcoming days. The question is: When she complete this mission?
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