Panaji: Nending Loder, director of ‘Karken’, described the film as a poignant exploration of internal conflict and redemption. “It’s about the journey to find your inner voice,” he stated during the press conference at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa.
Set in Arunachal Pradesh, the film captures the unique talent of the region while shedding light on its lack of opportunities for emerging filmmakers. “I hope this inspires the next generation to tell their stories,” Loder said. Cinematographer Nyago spoke of the technical challenges, particularly filming in confined spaces with a single character, which he found both demanding and transformative.
Jigarthanda Double X: Cinema as a catalyst for change
Visionary filmmaker Karthik Subbaraj highlighted the transformative power of cinema through his film ‘Jigarthanda Double X’. “Cinema can change society and even reform a gangster,” Subbaraj remarked. The film intertwines themes of human-animal relationships and blurs the lines between commercial and art cinema.
Subbaraj emphasized that the film serves as a bridge between the entertainment of mainstream cinema and the depth of art-house storytelling. “It’s a powerful mix of action and emotional depth,” he said, urging viewers to see the potential of cinema as a societal force.
Batto Ka Bulbula: Immersive village life in Haryana
Editor Saksham Yadav and Director of Photography Aryan Singh delved into the creative process behind ‘Batto Ka Bulbula’, a film celebrating the vibrancy of rural Haryana. Yadav spoke about the challenges of maintaining the film’s charm during post-production, particularly with extended shots.
“Our goal was authenticity,” Singh added, emphasizing the immersive portrayal of village life. The film reflects the simplicity and resilience of rural communities, captured through unfiltered storytelling and detailed cinematography.
Celebrating cinema’s creative spirit
The press conference reflected the filmmakers’ passion for storytelling and their dedication to exploring diverse themes, from personal redemption to societal reform and cultural authenticity. As the 55th IFFI continues, these films stand out as a testament to the evolving narrative power of Indian cinema.
