Cinema

Prithviraj Sukumaran Celebrates People’s Choice Win Amid National Award Snub, Emphasizing Audience Connection in Cinema

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Sharjah, United Arab Emirates — Prithviraj Sukumaran recently expressed his thoughts on the importance of audience appreciation over formal accolades after the National Awards did not recognize his film, Aadujeevitham – The Goat Life. The actor received significant applause for his portrayal of Najeeb in the survival drama, directed by Blessy, yet the film’s omission from the awards list left many surprised. While accepting the People’s Choice Award at the BOTIM Onamamangam 2025 event in Sharjah, Sukumaran emphasized that films are crafted for public enjoyment rather than for juries to evaluate. He remarked that a … Read more

Bong Joon Ho to Lead Jury at Marrakech Film Festival, Celebrating the Power of Global Cinema

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Rabat, Morocco — Renowned South Korean filmmaker Bong Joon Ho will lead the jury at the 22nd Marrakech International Film Festival, taking place from November 28 to December 6. This event is celebrated for showcasing innovative storytelling and highlighting emerging talent from around the globe. The jury will present the prestigious Étoile d’Or to one of the 14 feature films selected for the festival’s international competition, which focuses on the debut and sophomore offerings from directors worldwide. In a statement following his appointment, Bong expressed his excitement about participating in the festival, emphasizing Marrakech’s long-standing … Read more

Bulgarian Cinema Shines at Sarajevo Film Festival: Kristina Nikolova’s Documentary Takes Special Jury Award

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Sarajevo, Bosnia and Herzegovina — Kristina Nikolova’s documentary In Hell With Ivo clinched the Special Jury Award at the recently concluded 31st Sarajevo Film Festival. The event wrapped up on Friday evening, marking a significant showcase for filmmakers worldwide. The documentary, which premiered in Munich on May 9, centers on Ivo Dimchev, an innovative Bulgarian choreographer and singer-songwriter known for his boundary-pushing performances that delve into themes of sexuality and identity. In addition to Nikolova’s triumph, two other films with Bulgarian ties garnered accolades at the festival. Serbian actor Andrija Kuzmanovic received the Best Actor … Read more

Shoojit Sircar Reflects on the Art of Judging Cinema as He Prepares for IFFM 2025 Amid National Award Controversies

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Melbourne, Australia — Celebrated filmmaker Shoojit Sircar is embracing a new role as a judge for the Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM). This year marks his second consecutive time serving on the jury, where he will help select the Best Short Films. Ahead of the festival’s 2025 edition, Sircar shared insights about the challenges of evaluating cinematic art. Although Sircar typically refrains from serving on juries, he expressed a personal connection to the IFFM, describing it as almost a family affair. "This festival is very dear to me, and the organizers are close friends," … Read more