Australia Takes Centre Stage As Special Feature Country At 29th Kolkata International Film Festival
The event announced the significant Australia-India Audio-visual Co-production Agreement, a collaboration that promises to redefine the landscape of both nations’ film industries.
The excitement is palpable as the 29th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) gears up to enthral film aficionados from December 5 to 12, 2023. This year, the festival promises a cinematic journey that will evoke a spectrum of emotions, from heartfelt moments to spine-tingling thrills, uniting audiences in a celebration of storytelling.
On December 6, 2023, at a press confernce, Australia was unveiled as the Special Feature Country for the 29th KIFF. The event announced the significant Australia-India Audio-visual Co-production Agreement, a collaboration that promises to redefine the landscape of both nations’ film industries. This treaty opens new horizons for collaborative filmmaking, enabling films and television series to showcase the diverse tapestry of Australian and Indian cultures.
Emphasised by PM Narendra Modi and Austrailian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, this agreement not only broadens audience's reach for both Indian and Australian producers but also facilitates their connections with fresh narratives. The Co-Production Agreement's highlights include access to government funding support including grants, subsidies and tax concessions. This collaboration signifies a significant chapter for the Australian and Indian film industries.
The press conference was graced by Rowan Ainsworth, the Australian Consul-General in Kolkata and eminent Australian film filmmakers Bruce Beresford and Rolf de Heer. Beresford, known for classics like 'Driving Miss Daisy', 'Black Robe', and 'Mr. Church' exemplified the depth and diversity of Australian cinema. De Heer, renowned for films like 'The Survival of Kindness' and '10 Canoes', represented the cutting edge of contemporary Australian filmmaking.
"Australia and India, united by a rich tapestry of history and tradition, find common ground in the language of cinema, a universal medium that transcends borders. The inclusion of Australia as the Special Focus Country emphasises the shared commitment to fostering cultural understanding and strengthening ties through the art of storytelling. We are honoured to have two distinguished Australian filmmakers, award-winning director Bruce Beresford and acclaimed director Rolf de Heer. Their presence adds extra significance to the celebration, emphasising the role of cinema as a cultural bridge that connects people. Beresford and de Heer have made substantial contributions to the global cinematic landscape, and their participation in the festival willdeepen the cultural exchange between Australia and India. The Kolkata International Film Festival serves as a platform for fostering deeper understanding and appreciation between Australia and India," said Rowan Ainsworth.
In addition to her, Award-winning director, Bruce Beresford expressed, "Australian cinema is a treasure trove of diverse narratives, and the Kolkata International Film Festival provides a global stage for audiences to immerse themselves in storytelling. The warmth and passion of Indian audiences, coupled with the universal language of cinema, create a unique connection. I’m thrilled to share the magic of Australian films with a vibrant community that truly appreciates the art of storytelling."
Lastly, Australian filmmaker and screenwriter, Rolf de Heer added, "Film is a universal language, which has the power to transcend boundaries and connect people from different parts of the world. The Kolkata International Film Festival is a celebration of this shared language, where films from many different countries can find a home in the hearts of diverse audiences. It is a pleasure for me that a wide variety of Australian storytelling has been brought to Kolkata; I believe their differences will be engaged with and embraced."
As the 29th KIFF unfolds, Australia’s inclusion as the Special Feature Country promises an enriching experience for cinephiles. The festival will showcase a cutting-edge selection of Australian cinema in three categories, including contemporary gems like 'The Dry', 'Sweet As', and 'Shayda', while horror film enthusiasts can look forward to terrifying titles like 'Wolf Creek', 'Sissy', 'Picnic at Hanging Rock' and '100 Bloody Acres'.
In addition, KIFF is presenting a retrospective of six films by director Bruce Beresford selected by the man himself and including the oscar-winning 'The Driving Miss Daisy'.
The diverse lineup encapsulates the spirit of collaboration which the Co-Production Agreement will foster and serves as a testament to the enduring ties between Australia and India in the realm of cinema.
About KIFF:
The Kolkata International Film Festival is an annual event that celebrates the art of cinema by showcasing a diverse range of films from around the world. Since its inception, KIFF has been a platform for fostering cultural exchange and appreciation for the cinematic arts.
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