Goa: The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2024 in Goa hosted a media interaction with the esteemed jury for its International Competition category. Tasked with selecting winners for prestigious awards, including the Golden Peacock for Best Film, Best Director, Best Actor (Male and Female), and the Special Jury Prize, the panel features a blend of acclaimed filmmakers and cinema experts.
The jury is chaired by renowned Indian filmmaker Ashutosh Gowariker and includes Singaporean director Anthony Chen, British-American producer Elizabeth Karlsen, Spanish producer Fran Borgia, and Australian film editor Jill Billock. Together, they will evaluate 15 films—12 international and 3 Indian—representing a wide array of cultures and cinematic artistry.
The coveted Golden Peacock Award, accompanied by a prize of ₹40 lakhs, is the festival’s highest honour.
Ashutosh Gowariker, chairing the jury, expressed his admiration for Goa’s vibrant setting and the festival’s celebration of cinematic excellence. He underscored the jury’s camaraderie and shared passion for films, describing the selection process as one that prioritizes emotional resonance, originality, and creative impact over mere technical proficiency. “Great films offer fresh perspectives and foster learning by connecting audiences with diverse cultures,” Gowariker remarked.
Discussing the challenges of comparison, Gowariker highlighted the dynamic discussions among jury members, enriched by their varied cultural and professional perspectives. These conversations, he noted, added depth to their evaluations, particularly when navigating cultural nuances and the emotional impact of the films.
Elizabeth Karlsen spoke about the universal nature of storytelling, emphasizing the power of great narratives to transcend borders and connect people across cultures. She commended the increasing prominence of films by debut or second-time directors, particularly those centered on women, as a positive and empowering shift in global cinema.
Singaporean director Anthony Chen shared his personal connection to IFFI, recalling the honour of one of his films winning the ICFT UNESCO Gandhi Medal in a previous edition. Reflecting on the challenges of filmmaking, Chen described it as a journey of constant self-doubt, yet celebrated cinema’s ability to foster universal emotional connections. “Filmmaking is a dynamic conversation, where the script evolves through writing, directing, and editing,” he explained.
Spanish producer Fran Borgia lauded the diversity of films in the competition, ranging from deeply personal narratives to explorations of broader social issues. He praised the enriching discussions within the jury, which offered insights into different cultures and perspectives through the films.