The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) will begin on the 20th of this month in Goa. Briefing the media at the curtain-raiser press conference in New Delhi today, Minister of State for Information and Broadcasting Dr. L. Murugan said that there has been immense response from filmmakers and audiences for IFFI.

 

Dr. Murugan said it is one of the largest film festivals at the international level. He added that Indian cinema is playing a huge role in the country’s economy. Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, Sanjay Jaju, said the focus this year is on young filmmakers. He mentioned that a new award, the Best Indian Debut Director Award, has been introduced to encourage fresh talent.

 

 

Mr. Jaju said Australia is the focus country this year, and the festival will open with the Asia premiere of the Australian film Better Man. He also informed that the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award will be presented to renowned Australian filmmaker Philip Noyce. The Secretary said that this year, IFFI has received 1,676 submissions from 101 countries. Over 180 international films from 81 countries have been selected for the festival.