Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) hosted a spirited press conference today featuring the cast and crew of three captivating films: Batto Ka Bulbula, Karken, and Jigarthanda Double X. The event provided a platform for filmmakers to discuss their artistic journeys, the challenges they faced, and their vision for cinema’s future.
Karken: A Tale of Passion and Redemption
Director Nending Loder described Karken as a deeply personal narrative about an individual grappling with societal expectations and personal desires. “It’s a story of redemption and finding your inner voice,” Loder said. He expressed gratitude to the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC) for supporting the project and highlighted the untapped filmmaking talent in Arunachal Pradesh. “Despite the challenges, this film will pave the way for aspiring filmmakers from the region,” he added.
Cinematographer Nyago reflected on the creative hurdles of shooting with a single character in confined spaces. “This project pushed my boundaries as a cinematographer and allowed me to explore new perspectives,” he shared.
Jigarthanda Double X: Transformative Power of Cinema
Director Karthik Subbaraj spoke about the thematic depth of Jigarthanda Double X, emphasizing cinema’s ability to inspire societal change. “Cinema is a powerful weapon; it can even change a gangster,” he remarked. The film also touches on the profound connection between humans and animals, adding an emotional layer to its narrative.
Subbaraj expressed his aspiration to bridge the gap between mainstream and art cinema. “This film is a blend—it entertains like mainstream cinema while carrying the soul of art cinema,” he said.
Batto Ka Bulbula: A Slice of Rural Haryana
Editor Saksham Yadav discussed the post-production challenges of Batto Ka Bulbula, particularly managing extended shots while preserving the film’s charm. “It required meticulous effort to balance the pacing and authenticity,” Yadav explained.
Director of Photography Aryan Singh elaborated on the film’s commitment to portraying an unfiltered depiction of Haryana’s village life. “Our aim was to immerse viewers in the beauty and simplicity of rural life,” he said.
A Celebration of Cinematic Diversity
The press conference underscored the diversity of storytelling at IFFI, showcasing narratives ranging from redemption and societal change to the vibrancy of rural life. These films not only highlight the richness of regional cinema but also illustrate the evolving landscape of Indian filmmaking.