Thiruvananthapuram, India – The Brazilian feature film “Malu,” directed by Pedro Freire, clinched the Suvarna Chakoram award for Best Film at the 29th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), receiving a cash prize of 20 lakh rupees. The accolade was presented by Kerala’s Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan during a ceremony in the state capital.
Fasil Muhammed’s “Feminichy Fathima,” a debut Malayalam film offering a satirical portrayal of religious orthodoxy and patriarchy, garnered the People’s Award for Best Film. Additionally, it impressed in various categories, securing several honors throughout the festival.
Chief Minister Vijayan, during his opening remarks, emphasized the festival’s dedication to showcasing female filmmakers. He noted the significant contribution of participants, asserting their involvement helped highlight global social, political, and cultural issues, particularly those pertaining to marginalized communities. The festival, he hoped, would inspire politically aware youth to engage with the cinematic world.
The festival also recognized remarkable achievements in various other categories. Farshad Hashemi received the Rajatha Chakoram for Best Director for his work on “Me, Mariam, the children and 26 others,” while the best debut director award went to Cristobal Leon and Joaquin Cocina for “Hyperboreans.” Fasil Muhammed not only took home awards for his film but was also acknowledged for its screenplay.
Special jury mentions were given for technical excellence to the film “East of Noon” and for outstanding performances to Anagha Ravi in “Appuram” and Chinmaya Siddi in “Rhythm of Dammam.”
Under the NETPAC (Network for the Promotion of Asian Cinema) Awards, “Feminichy Fathima” was celebrated as the Best Malayalam Film. “Me, Mariam, the children and 26 others” was recognized as the Best Asian Film. A special jury mention in this category went to “Kiss Wagon,” directed by Mithun Murali.
Fasil Muhammed dominated the FIPRESCI (International Federation of Film Critics) Awards as well, claiming the title for the best film in international competition. The FIPRESCI jury also honored debutant Malayalam director Sivaranjini J for her film “Victoria.”
In the category of promising new directors, the FSSI V K Mohanan Endowment award for the Best debut director from India was given to Indu Lakshmi for her film “Appuram,” with a special mention again granted to Fasil Muhammed.
In recognition of cinematic contribution to social causes, Payal Kapadia received the Spirit of Cinema award for her debut feature film “All We Imagine as Light,” which had earlier won the Grand Prix at Cannes Film Festival.
The festival also acknowledged lifetime achievements in cinema, honoring Armenian filmmakers and actress Nora Armani. The event was chaired by Minister for Culture and Films Saji Cheriyan, with several notable officials including Minister for Revenue K Rajan and Kerala State Chalachitra Academy chairman Premkumar attending the event.
This article is an automated creation and might contain inaccuracies. For corrections, retractions, or removal requests, please contact [email protected].