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IFFI Goes High-Tech: AI & Global Deals at Film Bazaar
20 Nov
Summary
- Festival director Shekhar Kapur emphasizes AI and tech integration.
- India's production incentives increased to 40% cash rebate.
- WAVES Film Bazaar aims to become a major international marketplace.
The International Film Festival of India (IFFI), under the direction of Shekhar Kapur, is set to embrace technological innovation and global collaboration. Kapur's vision includes integrating artificial intelligence and new technologies into the festival's infrastructure and transforming the WAVES Film Bazaar into a premier international marketplace for film financing and co-production. This strategic shift aims to enhance audience engagement and international co-production opportunities.
Key to this evolution is India's boosted production incentive program, now offering a 40% cash rebate for international productions, a significant increase from the previous 30%. This incentive has already proven effective, attracting projects like the Oscar-submitted British-Indian production "Santosh." The festival is also focusing on making the WAVES Film Bazaar a crucial platform for filmmakers, particularly those of Indian or Asian origin looking to produce in India.
Furthermore, IFFI is broadening its appeal beyond industry professionals by introducing a carnival-style opening ceremony to engage local Goan audiences. Kapur aims to significantly increase attendance, projecting a rise to 50,000 attendees, including the general public. The festival's programming boasts a strong lineup of international films, with several selected as official Oscar entries.
