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#IFFIWood, 22 November 2024

The 55^th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) proudly showcases three exceptional films from Uzbekistan, Estonia, and Serbia. These cinematic gems, crafted by visionary directors and producers, explore themes of resilience, self-discovery, and the indomitable human spirit, inviting audiences on a journey through diverse cultural landscapes.

Among the highlights is The Song Sustxotin, a poignant tale set in a drought-stricken Uzbek village. Directed by the internationally acclaimed Khusnora Rozmatova, the film portrays a community’s battle against nature’s fury and societal despair. Honored with the "For Humanism" award at the Kazan International Muslim Film Festival, Rozmatova has delievered a compelling second feature, showcasing her unwavering commitment to humanistic storytelling.

Adding to the showcase is House, a moving narrative from Uzbekistan directed by Jamshid Narzikulov. The story follows a grieving widow who loses her only son to a reckless online challenge. Her pursuit of justice leads her from a quiet village to the chaos of a sprawling metropolis, where she faces harsh realities while rediscovering her strength and values. This debut feature highlights Narzikulov’s nuanced storytelling, blending personal tragedy with transformative self-discovery.

From Estonia and Serbia comes Deaf Lovers directed by Boris Guts, a renowned Russian experimental film maker. A contemporary tale set in Istanbul, the film follows Sonya, a Ukrainian, and Danya, a Russian, as they navigate the challenges of survival in a foreign city, grappling with shared struggles and aspirations. Their journey explores themes of identity, resilience, and the pursuit of a shared future amid turbulent pasts. Guts brings his fearless approach to critical issues like poverty, racism, and terminal illness, infusing this international premiere with his signature depth and vision to the film.

While addressing the press conference, Boris Guts underscored the significance of cinema as a strong Language that has power to bridges divides even in the war-stricken landscapes.

Karim, an award-winning film director, while responding to the audience question, emphasized on the role of cinema to unite people across borders and heal differences and bring humanity closer through shared stories.

The Directors also emphasized on the role of cinema in “building a better tomorrow”.

Together, these films showcase the universal power of cinema to transcend borders, connect cultures, and delve into the complexities of the human condition. With their unique storytelling, profound narratives, and artistic brilliance, they promise to leave an indelible mark on audiences at IFFI 2024.

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PIB IFFI CAST AND CREW | Rajith/Supriya/Ashwani/Darshana | IFFI 55 - 44

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