Goa: Directors of The Sluggard Clan, Gülizar, and Fear & Trembling shared poignant insights into their films during a press conference at the 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI). The session, moderated by Sriyanka Chatterjee, delved into themes of cultural authenticity, funding challenges, and personal isolation, reflecting the diverse storytelling showcased at this year’s festival.
Rastislav Boroš, the director of The Sluggard Clan, described his film as a metaphorical journey into Slovakia’s identity crisis. “Slovakia is a young state that gained independence not so long ago,” he explained. “Through this film, I wanted to portray the soul of my nation. Rather than depicting reality, I chose to present a dream—a metaphor for what I aspire my country to be.”
Boroš lamented the erosion of authenticity in his homeland due to the rising tide of capitalism and consumerism. “The youth of Slovakia is increasingly driven by consumerist aspirations. This film is my attempt to capture something genuine amidst these changes,” he added.
Turkish director Belkis Bayrak highlighted the hurdles she faced while creating Gülizar, a film centered on societal and cultural challenges. Addressing the media, she pointed to biases within the film industry as significant barriers to securing funding. “Mansplaining is a persistent issue in the industry, though cultural institutions themselves are not as prejudiced,” she noted.
Bayrak further remarked on the resistance faced by films that challenge societal norms. “If you present ideas that oppose certain sections of society, you’re bound to encounter challenges,” she said, emphasizing the resilience required to bring such stories to life.
Iranian filmmakers Manijeh Hekmat and Faeze Azizkhani introduced Fear & Trembling, a poignant tale of a woman whose unyielding beliefs isolate her from family and society. Azizkhani explained, “The title itself captures the experience of making this film. It’s a story of extreme conviction leading to profound loneliness.”
She shed light on the struggles of funding independent films, pointing to systemic biases in favor of cinema that aligns with established norms. “Cinema supporting the establishment gets funding easily. Independent and neutral cinema often relies on personal resources or the support of friends and family,” she said.
The three directors’ experiences underscore the importance of platforms like IFFI in amplifying diverse voices. Their films reflect a shared commitment to exploring nuanced themes that resonate universally, from cultural identity and gender biases to personal struggles and societal critiques.
As IFFI 2024 continues to celebrate the art of storytelling, these narratives remind audiences of the power of cinema to challenge perceptions, inspire dialogue, and connect cultures.