The Cinevesture International Film Festival 2024 (CIFF) has truly ignited Chandigarh amidst much excitement and fanfare, featuring the inaugural screening of the acclaimed French film, ‘The Taste of Things,’ graced by the presence of stars like Juliette Binoche. Leading Bollywood actors Boman Irani, Rasika Dugal, and Rajshri Deshpande inaugurated the festival, which promises a cinematic feast from March 27 to 31, offering film enthusiasts an eclectic mix of films to revel in.
The CIFF, with its grand opening in Chandigarh, is not just an affair; it’s a cultural phenomenon. The festival’s inauguration with ‘The Taste of Things’ is a promise of the extraordinary journeys that lie ahead. This film, a masterpiece in its own right, sets the tone for an odyssey of emotions, unveiling the beauty and depth of cinema from corners of the world previously unexplored.
‘The Taste of Things’ is a cinematic masterpiece directed by François DuBois. The movie is a poignant exploration of love, loss, and the intricate dance of life. With breathtaking cinematography and stellar performances, the film invites viewers on a journey through the French countryside into the heart of a family grappling with change. The narrative weaves together the bitter and sweet, echoing the festival’s theme of embracing diverse storytelling perspectives.
‘The Taste of Things,’ with its evocative title and mesmerizing narrative, perfectly encapsulates the festival’s essence. It lingers long after the credits roll, a conversation starter that sparks debates, discussions, and a deeper appreciation for the nuanced craft of filmmaking. As the opening feature, it invites attendees into a realm of wonder, setting the stage for an unforgettable cinematic experience.
At the heart of the CIFF lies the transcendent power of cinematic conversations. These dialogues surpass the language, culture, and geography barriers, echoing the universal truths of human existence. ‘The Taste of Things’ opens this dialogue and nurtures a space where filmmakers and audiences share the collective catharsis, laughter, and reflection that only cinema can provide.
The CIFF, with its humble beginning in the heart of Chandigarh, reminds us that cinema is not just an art form but a heartbeat of human connection. ‘The Taste of Things’ and the myriad stories that followed invite us to explore the depths of our emotions, empathize with the unfamiliar and celebrate the diversity of the human spirit.
Bollywood actor Boman Irani expressed his heartfelt emotions about the festival: “This is a moment of joy, a grand celebration. It’s a beacon for future generations. You might wonder about my presence here. Well, I’m embracing a new beginning. My journey into acting began at 44, and my first film project at 64. And now, as a guest of honor, I feel a childlike wonder, reminding us that it’s never too late to start a beautiful journey.”
Actor Rasika Dugal, who was celebrated for her roles in ‘Mirzapur’ and ‘Delhi Crime,’ shared her nostalgic connection to Chandigarh. She recalled her childhood visits and the magic of watching her first movie in a theater here. “Returning to Chandigarh for a film festival feels like a magical circle closing. I’m thrilled, especially because Juliette Binoche, a major inspiration for me, stars in the opening film,” she said.
The CIFF, with its humble beginning in the heart of Chandigarh, reminds us that cinema is not just an art form but a heartbeat of human connection
Actor Rajshri Deshpande spoke about her humble beginnings and the transformative power of cinema, “Being part of this festival is a great honor. Growing up in a small town, I yearned for more exposure to the arts. This festival is a treasure trove for the people of Chandigarh, offering them a gateway to the vast world of cinema, which is vital for the enrichment of this generation.”
Nina Lath, the visionary Founder & CEO of CIFF, expressed gratitude for the overwhelming support the festival has received in its inaugural year. V S Kundu, the CIFF Director, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the festival’s commitment to delivering quality content and continuing this tradition in future editions.
The festival celebrates cinematic brilliance with a lineup featuring 25 international award-winning features, 16 indie marvels in ‘India Unveiled, 30 captivating shorts in ‘Brief Encounters,’ and a specially curated section for children’s films and timeless classics. Bina Paul, the Artistic Director, shared, “Our selection spans the globe, offering insights into the realm of meaningful cinema.”
Moreover, the festival will host 20 masterclasses and panel discussions with an impressive array of film personalities, including Karan Johar, Tahira Kashyap, and many more, promising enriching experiences for every attendee.
The CIFF is more than a showcase of films; it’s a tribute to the art of storytelling. Each screening, each panel discussion, and each workshop is a testament to the creativity, perseverance, and passion that fuel the world of cinema. ‘The Taste of Things’ is just the beginning, a delicate appetizer before a feast of films that promise to challenge, inspire, and transform.
The festival is a rollercoaster of emotions, from the exhilarating highs of laughter and joy to the poignant depths of sorrow and reflection. Each film is a window into a different world, offering insights into lives and stories that resonate on a profoundly personal level. The festival becomes a journey of self-discovery as each viewer finds pieces of themselves reflected on the silver screen.
Meanwhile, the CIFF 2024, with its grand opening featuring ‘The Taste of Things,’ has once again illuminated the power of cinema to transcend boundaries, connect cultures, and evoke universal emotions. As the festival progresses, it offers a window into the myriad hues of human experience, reminding us of the stories that bind us in our shared life journey. CIFF 2024 is a celebration of films and a tribute to the indomitable spirit of storytelling in every corner of our world.
