THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: The government has begun preparations for the smooth conduct of the 22nd International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), which will be held in the capital from December 8 to 15.
Cultural Affairs Minister AK Balan inaugurated the organising committee of IFFK at the VJT Hall here on Wednesday. A total of 200 films will be screened in 14 theatres as part of the festival. The committee noted that last year, there was a heavy rush at IFFK. The police have warned the government that any accident that occur in theatres during the festival can result in a major tragedy. This year onwards, there will be restrictions on the number of passes issued to delegates.
Since the conduct of the festival has brought huge financial liability on the Chalachitra Academy, the government is considering to hike the delegate fees this year. The award for overall contribution will be presented to Russian film-maker Alexander Sokurov during the valedictory function. Bengali actress Madhavi Mukherjee will be the chief guest of the inaugural function.
The minister said four Indian films, including two Malayalam movies, will be screened in the competition section. He said a permanent festival complex will be constructed for IFFK at Chitranjali studio.
A package of Brazilian films has been included in the ‘Country Focus’ category in addition to a separate package on migration-related films. A Malaysian film which essays the plight of Rohingyan refugees will also be screened, Chalachitra Academy chairman Kamal said.
MLAs O Rajagopal, C K Hareendran, Cultural Affairs Secretary Rani George, Planning Board member Dr B Ekbal, Academy Vice Chairperson Bina Paul, Secretary Mahesh Panju and general council member Madhu Janardhanan attended the meeting.