The anticipation is at an all-time high as the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) prepares to unveil its 2024 edition, where 15 mesmerizing films will compete for the cherished Golden Peacock Award. This year’s lineup—a dazzling blend of 12 international gems and three Indian masterpieces—has been curated with care and precision. Each film radiates with its distinct voice, perspective, and artistry, ready to captivate audiences near and far. These stories don’t just entertain—they reach into the heart, offering a glimpse into familiar and wonderfully new worlds. For India, these three entries are more than just films; they are potent celebrations of the soul of Indian cinema and its ability to tell stories that touch lives worldwide. And with the international entries, we see how storytelling can dissolve boundaries, uniting cultures through the universal language of emotion.
Through these international entries, we witness the profound power of storytelling to dissolve borders, uniting cultures through a shared language of emotion. As Goa readies itself to host this celebration, cinephiles worldwide feel a thrill of anticipation, eager to experience a collection that promises to entertain and stir the soul. This year’s IFFI lineup is a vibrant tapestry of diversity, passion, and creative spirit—a true embodiment of world cinema’s heart. Each film is an intimate journey into the lives of people around the globe, transcending cultures and bridging emotions to reveal raw human stories of identity, resilience, and the trials that define us. Crafted to linger in our minds, this lineup will leave an indelible mark on audiences and critics alike—a profound experience that will resonate long after the festival lights have faded.
Showcasing the finest of global and Indian cinema, each of these films invites viewers to journey into realms of culture, human values, and the boundless art of storytelling. From the profound reflection of ‘Fear & Trembling’ in Iran to the poignant beauty of ‘Gulizar’ in Turkey, and from the thought-provoking narrative of ‘Holy Cow’ in France to the personal struggle in ‘I am Nevenka’ from Spain, the lineup is a vivid tapestry of stories. The films also include the thrilling ‘Panopticon’ from the USA, the introspective ‘Pierce’ from Singapore, the heart-wrenching ‘Red Path’ from Tunisia, and the introspective ‘Shepherds,’ a joint creation from Canada and France. There’s also the haunting ‘The New Year That Never Came’ from Romania, the chilling ‘Toxic’ from Lithuania, the poetic ‘Waves’ from the Czech Republic, and ‘Who Do I Belong To,’ a Tunisian Canadian collaboration that explores belonging. This lineup comprises three Indian masterpieces— ‘The Goat Life,’ ‘Article 370’, and ‘Raavsaheb’—each bringing a piece of India’s soul to the international stage.
Each of these titles is a powerful testament to how cinema can touch hearts, challenge minds, and celebrate our shared humanity.
This year, the prestigious Golden Peacock Jury combines an extraordinary blend of cinematic visionaries. Chaired by the revered Indian filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker, whose storytelling has captivated audiences worldwide, the jury includes some of the industry’s most celebrated names: Singapore’s award-winning director Anthony Chen, British-American producer Elizabeth Karlsen, Spanish producer Fran Borgia, and the legendary Australian film editor Jill Bilcock. Together, they shoulder the immense responsibility of choosing Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor (Male), Best Actor (Female), and the Special Jury Prize winners. For the filmmakers, actors, and creators, the decision of this distinguished jury holds the power to change lives. With a grand prize of Rs. 40 lakh and the festival’s highest honor at stake, this year’s contenders stand on the edge of cinematic glory. Each film is a profound testament to the dedication, passion, and heart poured into its creation—a celebration of dreams brought to life on screen.
The 55th edition of IFFI, set in the vibrant heart of Goa from November 20 to November 28, promises a rich lineup of films that span genres, themes, and cultural boundaries. This year’s films are not just stories but journey into the unknown, challenges to established norms, and powerful amplifiers of fresh, fearless voices. Audiences can expect films that defy categorization, push us to see the world through new eyes, and feel deeply about lives and stories far removed from our own.
At IFFI, the Golden Peacock Award represents more than a trophy; it is the highest beacon of honor, respect, and cinematic admiration. For those who dare to dream and create, the Golden Peacock is a tribute to the countless hours, relentless creative energy, and unwavering passion that go into the art of filmmaking. For filmmakers who have poured their very souls into these stories, this recognition is a robust validation of their artistry and dedication. This year’s competition holds special meaning, with three extraordinary Indian films in the spotlight, each telling stories that not only reflect the heartbeat of the Indian subcontinent but resonate with audiences around the world.
IFFI’s global platform is a stage that offers filmmakers an invaluable chance to connect with an international audience to let their stories breathe and be heard across continents. This gathering draws the best talents and films from every corner of the globe, each one striving for recognition in an environment that doesn’t just celebrate cinema but elevates the human experience behind each frame. This festival is more than a competition; it’s a celebration of the beauty, diversity, and shared spirit of storytelling that binds us all.
The sheer diversity of this year’s competing films is a breathtaking reminder of the boundless richness of global cinema. From every corner of the world, these entries arrive as deeply crafted works of art, each infused with a unique vision and a profound passion for storytelling. Although every film carries its flavor, style, and perspective, it shares a common heartbeat—its creators’ relentless drive to capture the essence of the human spirit.
This cinematic journey spans from the quaint, cobblestone streets of European villages to the frenetic energy of Asia’s bustling cities. Together, these films explore the entire spectrum of human experience. There are heart-wrenching tales of love lost and rekindled, raw dives into the depths of the human psyche, and piercing reflections on societal issues that resonate now more than ever. Some films invite us into the intimate worlds of individuals, while others offer sweeping views of humanity in all its intricate beauty and struggle. Each one stands as a powerful tribute to the magic of cinema—its ability to cast light on our shared existence, stir our souls, and remind us why we love and believe in the transformative power of storytelling.
HERE’S A GLIMPSE OF A FEW STANDOUT ENTRIES
FEAR & TREMBLING (IRAN): In ‘Fear & Trembling,’ two of Iran’s most respected women filmmakers, Manijeh Hekmat and Faeze Azizkhani, unravel the haunting tale of Manzar, an older woman grappling with loneliness and fear amidst a world that seems to be changing faster than she can adapt. This powerful film, making its World Premiere at IFFI, paints a profoundly emotional portrait of personal transformation against the backdrop of societal shifts. It’s a raw and moving reflection of the struggles faced by women in modern-day Iran, capturing the essence of resilience and inner strength amidst an ever-changing world.
GULIZAR (TURKEY): In her bold and heartfelt debut, Turkish writer-director Belkis Bayrak brings us Gulizar, a poignant story of a young woman battling trauma and the weight of societal expectations as she fights for her independence. Premiered to great acclaim at the Toronto and San Sebastián International Film Festivals, Gulizar has already ignited conversations for its powerful, unfiltered portrayal of a woman’s struggle to claim her identity in a world that is eager to define her. BBayrak’s storytelling is raw and achingly powerful, capturing the unbreakable resilience of a soul fighting to carve her own path despite every obstacle. This film reaches straight into the heart, a stirring celebration of the courage it takes to rise, to claim one’s voice, and to stand unwavering in the face of adversity.
HOLY COW (FRANCE): French filmmaker Louise Courvoisier delights audiences with Holy Cow, a heartwarming and humorous coming-of-age story. The film follows 18-year-old Totone, whose carefree life is turned upside down when he unexpectedly finds himself responsible for his younger sister.
Set against the stunning landscape of the western French Alps, Holy Cow is a heartfelt journey through the bittersweet realities of growing up. With every scene, Courvoisier’s film wraps audiences in laughter, tenderness, and a deep sense of nostalgia, perfectly capturing the turbulence and joy of adolescence. Winner of the Youth Award at Cannes, Holy Cow resonates with the timeless beauty of youth, responsibility, and the fragile magic of finding one’s place in the world.
I AM NEVENKA (SPAIN): In ‘I Am Nevenka,’ Goya Award-winning director Icíar Bollaíntells the compelling story of Nevenka Fernández, a woman who became the first in Spain to win a sexual harassment case against a high-ranking politician in 2001. This bold film explores Nevenka’s journey to justice, highlighting her courage in confronting societal injustice. Winner of the Euskadi Basque Country 2030 Agenda Award, I Am Nevenka delves deep into the cultural and social complexities of gender inequality in Spain, making it a powerful testament to the enduring fight for women’s rights and equality.
PANOPTICON (GEORGIA-USA): Georgian-American filmmaker George Sikharulidze delivers a poignant coming-of-age narrative in Panopticon, where a young Georgian teen confronts the complexities of identity, morality, and self-discovery. Set against the backdrop of post-Soviet Georgia, the film won the Ecumenical Jury Special Mention at Karlovy Vary 2024, resonating deeply with its universal themes of youth, growth, and the search for belonging. Sikharulidze’s work captivates with its raw depiction of adolescence in a society marked by history, tradition, and change.
PIERCE (SINGAPORE): In her critically acclaimed psychological thriller Pierce, Singaporean filmmaker Nelicia Low plunges audiences into the intense, high-stakes world of competitive fencing, where ambition and loyalty collide. Awarded Best Director at Karlovy Vary, Low masterfully weaves a story of two brothers entangled in sibling rivalry and the heavy complexities of family expectations. Set against the backdrop of fierce athletic competition, Pierce delves into the darker corners of human emotion, revealing how ambition and loyalty can both uplift and unravel us. It’s an emotionally charged exploration of love, rivalry, and the unspoken bonds that connect and tear families apart.
RED PATH (TUNISIA): Tunisian director Lotfi Achour delivers a hauntingly beautiful journey in Red Path, a story that follows Achraf, a young shepherd who confronts trauma, tradition, and devastating personal loss. Premiered at the Locarno International Film Festival, Red Path draws viewers into Tunisia’s breathtaking, unforgiving landscapes, where Achraf’s journey unfolds against rugged mountains and endless skies. Achour’s storytelling is pure poetry, with every frame stirring deep, unspoken emotions that linger in the soul. Red Path is more than just a film—it’s an emotional and visual odyssey, a powerful testament to the unbreakable resilience of the human spirit, leaving an ineffaceable mark long after the final scene fades.
SHEPHERDS (CANADA-FRANCE): In Shepherds, renowned Quebec filmmaker Sophie Deraspe crafts a stunning narrative about self-discovery and resilience. The film follows a Canadian copywriter who moves to the French Alps, seeking a new beginning as a shepherd. Winner of the Best Canadian Feature Film Award at TIFF 2024, Shepherds is a visually striking journey into isolation, confronting one’s past and the strength found in solitude. Deraspe’s work captures the beauty and brutality of rural life, inviting viewers to ponder the depths of human endurance.
THE NEW YEAR THAT NEVER CAME (ROMANIA): Romanian director Bogdan Mureșanu presents a powerful historical drama with The New Year That Never Came, which follows the intertwined lives of six individuals during Romania’s 1989 revolution. The film, awarded Best Film and a Special Mention at the Venice International Film Festival, masterfully weaves human stories of resistance, sacrifice, and hope amidst political upheaval. Mureșanu’s narrative is as personal as it is universal, reminding us of the human cost of freedom and the indomitable will to survive.
TOXIC (LITHUANIA): In her haunting debut feature, Lithuanian filmmaker Saulė Bliuvaitė presents Toxic, a coming-of-age tale exploring youth’s darker side through friendship and self-destruction. Winning multiple awards at the Locarno International Film Festival, Toxicdelves deep into adolescence’s emotional turmoil and fragility. Bliuvaitė’s raw portrayal of toxic friendships and the struggles of growing up has struck a chord with audiences worldwide, shedding light on the often-hidden battles of youth.
WAVES (CZECH REPUBLIC): Czech director Jiří Mádl delivers a powerful historical drama in Waves, set during the 1968 Soviet invasion of Czechoslovakia. The film, selected as the Czech Republic’s official entry for the Academy Awards, follows a group of journalists who risk everything to report the truth in the face of oppression. Wave is a gripping tale of courage, loyalty, and the quest for freedom, capturing the essence of resilience in a world on the brink of change.
WHO DO I BELONG TO (TUNISIA-CANADA): In ‘Who Do I Belong To,’ Tunisian-Canadian filmmaker Meryam Joobeur presents a profoundly emotional narrative about a mother’s struggle to reconcile her love for her son and her search for truth. The film showcased at the Berlin International Film Festival, delved into the raw and powerful dynamics of maternal love and personal sacrifice as a mother faces the haunting transformation of her son after his return from war. Joobeur’s storytelling has captivated audiences, praised for its intense emotional depth and the unflinching honesty with which it explores the aching complexities of love, loss, and resilience.
THE GOAT LIFE (INDIA): Indian filmmaker Blessy brings a heart-wrenching adaptation of the novel Aadujeevitham in The Goat Life, telling the true story of Najeeb, an Indian migrant laborer trapped in the deserts of Saudi Arabia. Through this compelling narrative, Blessy explores the themes of migration, survival, and the strength of the human spirit. With every frame, The Goat Life invites audiences to feel the weight of Najeeb’s struggle and resilience, making it a powerful ode to the endurance of migrant workers.
ARTICLE 370 (INDIA): In ‘Article 370,’ director Aditya Suhas Jambhale crafts a gripping political thriller that dives into the complexities surrounding one of India’s most controversial constitutional articles. Set against a backdrop of political tension and historical significance, Article 370 is a tense exploration of national identity, freedom, and the impact of governmental power on ordinary people. Jambhale’s storytelling is thought-provoking and intense, making Article 370 a compelling addition to IFFI’s potent lineup.
RAAVSAHEB (INDIA): ‘Raavsaheb’ is one of the most eagerly awaited films of the year, a Marathi crime thriller crafted by the acclaimed National Award-winning filmmaker Nikhil Mahajan. Set to make its World Premiere at this year’s IFFI, Raavsaheb dives deep into the intense and often brutal reality of man-animal conflicts in India’s tribal lands. Mahajan’s storytelling is gripping and visceral, weaving a tale that’s as much about survival as it is about justice. Against the raw and rugged backdrop of these remote lands, Raavsahebcaptures the fierce struggle of those who live on the edge of wilderness, their lives intertwined with nature’s dangers and its untamed beauty. This film doesn’t just tell a story—it pulls you into its world, leaving you breathless and deeply moved by its powerful portrayal of conflict, courage, and the relentless pursuit of justice.
“The 55th edition of IFFI, set in the vibrant heart of Goa from November 20 to November 28, promises a rich lineup of films that span genres, themes, and cultural boundaries”
Each of these films is a unique masterpiece, a labor of love that pushes boundaries, challenges norms, and brings audiences closer to the experiences, dreams, and struggles that define humanity. Through these stories, this year’s IFFI promises to be an unforgettable celebration of cinema’s power to move, inspire, and make us see the world through new eyes.
These films and their fellow contenders promise to deliver a symphony of emotions, each revealing a fresh, poignant, and profoundly resonant story. With various themes, styles, and voices, this year’s Golden Peacock competition is set to captivate audiences, sparking anticipation and excitement as everyone wonders which masterpiece will claim the top honor.
India’s presence in this lineup is a proud moment, with three remarkable Indian films making it to the Golden Peacock’s final selection. Each film embodies the soul of Indian storytelling, weaving together themes of social justice, family bonds, and the resilience of the human spirit. These stories speak to the depth and diversity of Indian cinema, each one a powerful contender for the prestigious Golden Peacock.
The question on everyone’s mind is almost tangible: Which of these incredible films will rise to the top? The esteemed jury has an immense responsibility to choose from a lineup so rich in artistry and authenticity that each entry feels deserving. The decision is thrilling and challenging, adding heightened suspense to the awards.
But IFFI 2024 is more than just a race for awards; it’s a celebration of creativity, resilience, and the unbreakable spirit of cinema. For the audience, it’s a rare opportunity to experience the best of world cinema in a single place, to be moved by stories that make us think, laugh, cry, and, most importantly, feel. This festival is a beacon of cultural exchange, where every film is an invitation to understand and connect.
IFFI isn’t merely a showcase of films; it’s a living platform where cultural dialogues come alive, connections are built, and ideas are given the space to flourish. Over the years, IFFI has grown into a celebration of both Indian and global cinema, becoming a gathering place for filmmakers, actors, critics, and fans who all share in the unbreakable magic of storytelling. For India, IFFI stands as a symbol of national pride and love for cinema, a testament to the country’s commitment to art and storytelling on an international stage.
For filmmakers, winning the Golden Peacock is more than an accolade—it’s a dream come true. It’s the ultimate recognition that their story has touched hearts and resonated with audiences around the world. For the winners, it’s an affirmation that their voice matters and that their art has made a difference. The Golden Peacock ceremony will undoubtedly be an emotional night filled with joy, anticipation, and unforgettable moments.
As filmmakers, cast, and crew gather in the lush setting of Goa, the awards night will be the pinnacle of their hard work, dreams, and dedication. It’s a night where applause will echo through the halls, emotions will run high, and the world will again bear witness to the unparalleled power of cinema to transform and inspire.
