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The Communiqué News

Film Bazaar 2024: A Triumph of Cinematic Excellence and Global Collaboration at the 55th International Film Festival of India

Announcement of 'Work in Progress' (WIP), 'Film Bazaar Recommends' (FBR), and 'Student Producer Workshop Pitch Awards' at Film Bazaar 2024


French Institute of India Honoured for Its Continued Efforts in Promoting French Delegates' Participation in Film Bazaar


Acclaimed Casting Director Mukesh Chhabra Announces Collaboration with Film Bazaar on Two Co-Production Market Projects


Swati Bhat

18th edition of NFDC film bazaar

Film Bazaar 2024, held as part of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa, concluded on a high note, celebrating cinematic innovation and global collaboration. Organized by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the event brought together industry leaders, emerging filmmakers, and international partners to foster creativity and new ventures in the film industry.

Key highlights at the Film Bazaar during the International Film Festival of India included Mukesh Chhabra’s announcement of his collaboration of two projects in Co-Production Market (CPM) projects, offering his casting expertise at no cost. Film Bazaar also unveiled new partnerships with Final Draft, Film Independent Episodic Writing Workshop, and SAAVA & ATF IP Accelerator.

The Work in Progress (WIP) Awards recognized films like Kaatti Ri Raatti: Hunter’s Moon and Shape of Momo with significant post-production support. In the Film Bazaar Recommends (FBR) category, three films received Rs. 3 lakh in sponsorship and promotional benefits. Deadly Dosas by Anusree Kelat won the Student Producer Workshop Pitch Award.

The newly introduced Co-Production Market Feature Cash Grants saw Kurinji (The Disappearing Flower) win First Prize. The French Institute of India was honoured for its role in promoting French participation. The event closed with a teaser for WAVES 2025, setting the stage for another year of ground-breaking achievements in Film Bazaar.







Manjummel Boys: A Tale of Friendship and Bravery at 55th International Film Festival of India

‘Manjummel Boys’: A True Story of Friendship and Bravery Takes Centre Stage at 55th IFFI


Swati Bhat

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The Malayalam rescue drama 'Manjummel Boys' captivated audiences as it was featured in the Indian Panorama section of the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). During Day 6 of the event, the film’s director, Shri Chidambaram, addressed the media at a press conference held at the PIB Media Centre in Goa.

The film is inspired by a real-life incident involving a group of 11 young men from Manjummel, a village near Kochi, Kerala. The team visited the Guna Caves in Kodaikanal, Tamil Nadu, where they encountered a life-threatening situation. One member fell into a deep pit within the cave, and despite efforts from local authorities, it was Siju David, a fellow team member, who bravely rescued his friend, undertaking a daring mission to save him. The incident, marked by friendship and selflessness, highlights the courage of these young men.

Chidambaram shared that the story was well-known, but previous attempts to make a film about it were unsuccessful due to the industry's reluctance. However, with the rise of OTT platforms, such stories now have more opportunities to be told. He also spoke about the challenges of recreating the Guna Cave in a Kochi warehouse, wishing he could convey its scent on screen, emphasizing the cave as the true protagonist of the film.





At 55th International Film Festival of India, Bharat Bala Shares Interest to Make 'Vande Mataram' Appeal to 90s Generation

Shri Bala Unveils 'Virtual Bharat': A Ground-breaking Project to Chronicle India Through 1000 Unique Stories from Every Corner of the Nation


Swati Bhat

Bharat Bala at 55th International Film Festival of India

At the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), esteemed filmmaker Shri Bharat Bala unveiled his ambitious new initiative, Virtual Bharat. This project seeks to document the diverse stories of India through 1,000 unique narratives sourced from various regions across the country. It aims to delve into the extensive cultural, social, and historical landscape of India, providing audiences with an unparalleled insight into the nation's rich tapestry.

Shri Bala articulated his vision for Virtual Bharat as a platform for unearthing untold stories, enabling regional voices to be acknowledged and celebrated on a global stage. The project will encompass a wide array of narratives, showcasing India’s diversity and distinctiveness, with the goal of bridging geographical and cultural gaps.

Furthermore, Shri Bala discussed the transformative potential of crowdfunding in the filmmaking industry. He highlighted how crowdfunding could empower the public to determine the stories they wish to see, as opposed to the traditional model where producers and directors hold the decision-making power. This approach, he contends, will democratize storytelling, aligning films more closely with the audience's preferences and interests, thus reshaping the future of cinema.

Virtual Bharat promises to be a ground-breaking project, merging storytelling with innovative funding strategies to deliver a truly inclusive cinematic experience.








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