Chandigarh, known for its vibrant culture and artistic heritage, is set to host the highly anticipated Chandigarh International Film Festival (CIFF) in 2024. This prestigious event brings together filmmakers, actors, industry professionals, and cinephiles from around the world to celebrate the art of cinema and showcase a diverse range of films.
March 27–31, Chandigarh will host its inaugural international film festival.
The National Film Archives (NFDC) and Chandigarh College of Architecture students are working together to create an immersive cinema display in the Rose Garden Underpass to celebrate Raj Kapoor and Dev Anand’s hundredth anniversary.
The first international film festival, Cinevesture International Film Festival (CIFF), is scheduled to commence in Chandigarh on March 27 and run for five days, showcasing films from all across the nation and the world.
The CIFF 2024 promises to be a grand affair, highlighting the best of international cinema across various genres, languages, and styles. From thought-provoking documentaries to captivating narratives, the festival aims to provide a platform for both established and emerging filmmakers to present their work to a global audience.
The festival will showcase 24 award-winning international features in the World Cinema section, 17 Indie gems in the India Unveiled, 27 shorts in Brief Encounters, a curated section of children’s films and timeless classics.
From March 27 to 31, all kids between the ages of 10 and 17 are welcome to attend a children’s movie screening at Cinepolis Jagat every day at 9 am.
Juliette Binoche’s Cannes Award-winning French film “The Taste of Things” opens the festival. The closing movie, Horror – Mystery -Thriller Exhuma (Pamyo), which debuted at the 2024 Berlinale, is the highest-grossing movie from South Korea in 2024 to date.
Among the standout films from the international arena is “The Zone of Interest,” a compelling exploration of human nature set against the backdrop of historical events. Hirokazu Kore-eda’s “Monster” continues to mesmerize audiences with its nuanced portrayal of relationships and emotions. At the same time, the 2023 Academy Award-winning masterpiece “The Whale” leaves an indelible mark with its profound storytelling.
The festival’s World Cinema section will have 24 internationally acclaimed features, India Unveiled will offer 17 indie jewels, Brief Encounters will feature 27 shorts, and a specially selected segment, including children’s films and timeless classics, will feature 24 shorts.
In association with the National Film Archives (NFDC) and Chandigarh College of Architecture students, an immersive movie installation is being set up in the Rose Garden Underpass to commemorate the centenary of Raj Kapoor and Dev Anand. “The festival is envisaged as a platform for audiences and producers,” says Nina Lath, founder and CEO of Cinevesture. The same has been taken into consideration when designing its numerous verticals. A veteran of the industry, Bina Paul serves as CIFF’s creative director, and VS Kundu, a retired civil official and former head of India’s National Films Division, has joined the festival’s board as director.
Highlights of the schedule include critically renowned films from around the world, such as The Whale, 2023 Academy Award winner The Whale, Seven Winters in Tehran, Breaking Ice, Paradise, and the animated picture Sultana’s Dreams.
Award-winning Indian films and documentaries will be screened, including the Marathi film Sthal, Rima Das’ Assamese film “Tora’s Husband” and Deepa Mehta’s TIFF entry “I am Sirat” showcase the diversity and depth of Indian storytelling, each leaving a lasting impact on viewers. Auteur filmmaker Gurvinder Singh’s Punjabi feature “Adh Chanani Raat” and Harjit Singh’s documentary honouring the late Punjabi painter and writer Imroz, “A Walk Down The Memory Lane,” offer glimpses into the cultural heritage and artistic legacies of the region.
As Chandigarh gears up to host the International Film Festival in 2024, the city invites film enthusiasts, industry professionals, and curious minds from across the globe to join in this celebration of cinema. Whether you’re a seasoned filmmaker, a passionate cinephile, or simply curious about the world of films, the festival offers something for everyone. Mark your calendars for this cinematic extravaganza that promises to enchant, enlighten, and entertain.
Chandigarh’s International Film Festival 2024 is more than just an event; it’s a beacon for cultural exchange, artistic expression, and the shared love of cinema that knows no boundaries. Get ready to be a part of this unforgettable celebration in one of India’s most beautiful cities.
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