The logo for the 6th Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFES) was unveiled by Karnataka Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on Sunday. The festival will begin on December 26 and will screen 152 films from 45 countries.
In his address, the chief minister said, "This is a good opportunity and a platform for us to learn and get to know about different kind of films, which have been received well in their respective regions. This film festival will also help us gain more knowledge on various cultures, about artistes and the progresses made in the celluloid world."
BIFFES will be conducted by Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy (KCA), on behalf of government of Karnataka in association with Karnataka Film Chamber of Commerce. Since the KCA is yet to select a chairperson, its secretary will now organise the activities. "We will try and bring in a new head before the festival begins," said Siddaramaiah.
The CM also informed that actor Kamal Haasan has confirmed his attendance at BIFFES. "The state government has provided many facilities for the development of Kannada film industry, and it is a good sign to know that we are coming out with good movies now. It is also encouraging to know that our movies are entering competitions at various international film festivals. We had films like Bangarada Manushya and Sangolli Rayanna and I hope that such kind of quality film making will continue," he further stated.
The government has allocated a budget of `2 crore for the festival. "If the festival demands more, we can always provide them with more money," he announced.
H N Narahari Rao, the artistic director of the forthcoming edition of BIFFES, said, "This time we have 152 films, which is less than the previous years. The reason being that royalty to buy films which can be showcased at such festivals has increased. There was also delay in preparations for this festival. The festival, which was supposed to begin around November has been now postponed to December 26." The CM assured that next year the preparations will begin on time.
The venues
3 screens at Fun Cinema, Sigma Mall, Cunningham Road
2 screens at Lido Inox, Ulsoor
1 screen at Sulochana (Information Department), Infantry Road
1 screen at Priyadarshini (Badami House), NR Square