by admin | Jul 6, 2024 | Festival Circuit
The 30th edition of the Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF), organised by the Information and Cultural Affairs Department, Government of West Bengal, is scheduled to be held between 4 – 11 December 2024 in Kolkata, the cultural capital of the State. Accredited by the International Federation of Film Producers’ Association (FIAPF), KIFF promises to be more exciting, appealing and satisfying to cinema lovers as they will continue to feel the charm of world-class cinema in the City of Joy.
The film world of Assam feels a close connection with Kolkata. Earlier, Assamese films were made in Kolkata’s studios. Assam’s first Government film studio started in 1960, and after that, this relationship came to a halt. Later, the relationship was revived with the KIFF. Thirty years ago, Assam had no proper film festival. Film lovers love to visit KIFF, which is not so far from Assam. Later, It became a habit for a few film lovers. Many filmmakers submitted their films for the festival; many films were screened, and a few bagged awards.
Filmmaker Produyt Kumar Deka says, “My film ‘Samiran Baruah Ahi Ase’ was screened at KIFF, and it was a big support for the team. I observed that KIFF always promotes films with new content and narrative.”
A documentary titled ‘Challenge’, directed by Sibanu Bora and Ramen Bora was awarded Best Documentary at KIFF, which has boosted the filmmaker duo’s zeal for filmmaking. Ramen Bora says, “Our film had Indian Premier in KIFF, which was a great encouragement for us. We, my co-director and our cinematographer, attended the festival, and we returned. Later, we learned that our film had been selected for the Best Documentary Award. We stood speechless.’
Competition Category
International Competition: Innovation in Moving Images
Competition in Indian Languages
Asian Select (NETPAC Award)
Bengali Panorama
National Competition on Documentary
National Competition on Short Fiction
Non-Competition Category
Cinema International
by admin | Jul 5, 2024 | Screenings
Assamese film Emon, Ashim Baishya’s latest directorial venture, produced by Vipul Kumar Das’ Emon Film Creations, released in 50 screen all over Assam, today.
Lyricist-music composer Ibsonlal Baruah, who contributed four songs says, “I had a beautiful experience working for this movie as the director and producers had given me complete liberty to work with the lyrics and music.
“Somimudi Jopiyam , a romantic song sung by the golden voice of Zubeen Garg has the musical notes that i will always love to be romantic with.
“Bagurumba, an interpretation of two different cultures merging into one, flowing through the stream of music has been beautifully sung by popular singer Neel Akash & a fresh voice Emon Kashyap.
“The song Mor Sohoror was described to me to be the entry song of the hero of the slums. I tried to keep it powerful as it was a dance track, where I blended Assamese ethnic instruments like Nagara & Bhortaal. Popular singer Dikshu Sarma has sung it very well as it was a total different melody & scale that it was composed on. Fresh voice Emon Kashyap has also done justice to the playback.
“Emon, the title song had my vocals only as the film was about to release, though I had some particular voice in my mind while composing. I’m very happy for all the songs of this movie as I have been getting nice feedbacks from the audiences & the songs are spreading to their audiences day by day.”
The screenplay was penned by Mridul Kumar Bora based on the director’s story. The principal actors of the films are Debjit Majumdar, Bedangshi Priyadarshini Saikia, Siddhartha Sharma, Munmi Phukan, Snigdha Gogoi, Deepjyoti Keot, Siddhant Kalita, Arnab Ayan, and Madhurima Choudhury.
by admin | Jun 29, 2024 | Events
The Film Association of Nagaland (FAN) recently hosted a groundbreaking cinematography workshop featuring renowned Assamese cinematographer and film director, Asutosh Kashyap. The event, sponsored by Canon, took place at the LG Conference Hall, CIHSR Hospital, attracting over 50 aspiring filmmakers and photographers from local colleges.
Kashyap, a mentor with Canon India boasting 17 years of experience in photography and seven years as a cinematographer, shared his expertise with the eager participants. “The key aspect of this workshop is enabling participants to perceive a film before its completion,” Kashyap stated, emphasising the importance of pre-visualization in filmmaking.
The workshop addressed unique challenges faced by Northeastern cinematographers and highlighted the need for independent film avenues and specialised training. Kashyap stressed the importance of staying current with technological advancements to resonate with modern audiences.
Athe Rhi, FAN’s General Secretary, highlighted the workshop’s pioneering nature in Nagaland, aimed at raising local filmmaking standards. Letminthang Kipgen, President of the Dimapur Photography Club, lauded Kashyap’s expertise and issued a compelling call for increased support from both government and private sectors. This call to action is designed to make the audience feel responsible and motivated to contribute to the growth of filmmaking as an art form and vocational pursuit.
Participant Noku Rikha from St. Joseph University described the workshop as a transformative experience that broadened perspectives and practical skills. “The workshop significantly altered our cinematic viewpoint,” Rikha said.
FAN extended heartfelt gratitude to Kashyap for his unwavering dedication to inspiring the next generation of filmmakers. His commitment potentially sets a new standard for Nagaland’s emerging film community, leaving the audience feeling appreciative and inspired.
by admin | Jun 28, 2024 | Screenings
A Hindi-language film, Kooki, which addresses social issues with a focus on legal practice, premiered today. The film marks a significant collaboration between Assamese and Bollywood talent.
Dr Jonmani Devi Khaund, a practising lawyer, conceived the film’s theme and penned its story. Pranab J Deka took on the roles of screenwriter and director. Dr. Khaund, who also produced the film, cast actors from Bollywood and Assam, bridging the gap between the film industries.
Industry insiders are watching Kooki closely, as its box office performance could influence future filmmaking trends in Assam. A successful run might encourage local filmmakers to explore broader themes and collaborations beyond regional boundaries.
The film’s release represents a bold step for Assamese cinema, venturing into Hindi-language production and tackling socio-legal themes. It remains to be seen how audiences will respond to this cross-regional effort and whether it will pave the way for future collaborations.
by admin | Jun 26, 2024 | Announcements
National Award-winner filmmaker Rima Das whose acclaimed feature, Village Rockstar was India’s official entry to Oscar 2019 joins the Academy Awards 2024 as an honourable member.
This year, the Academy invited 487 new members from 68 countries, with 46 percent of the new members being women and 41 percent coming from underrepresented ethnic or racial groups. 56 percent are from countries and territories outside the US.
Actor Shabana Azmi, directors SS Rajamouli and Anand Kumar Tucker, producer Ritesh Sidhwani, cinematographer Ravi Varman, costume designers Rama Rajamouli, Sheetal Sharma, documentary filmmakers Nisha and Pahuja Hemal Trivedi are the others from India to join the illustrious list of the Academy members.
Sharing her joy Rima Das says “I am honoured and thrilled to become a member of the Academy. My journey at the Academy began when Village Rockstars was India’s Official entry 2019. Now as part of this incredible community, I look forward to contribute to recognizing the best in our craft, celebrating the power and magic of cinema.”
