The 4th Bengaluru International Film Festival drew their curtains on December 22. City Express takes a look at the film festival and the activities surrounding it. The week-long festival began with a colourful start on December 15 and screened about 180 films altogether. Of fourteen films in the competition, eight were given the Golden Bherunda awards during the closing ceremony. Although there were numerous things that made the film festival a grand success this year, the variety of films screened was what caught the attention of film-lovers and critics in Bangalore. While Dan Wolman, an Israeli film director complimented the professionalism exhibited during the festival, many others loved the colourful website and easy access to information. “Unlike other websites made in India, BIFFES 2011’s website was extremely professional and we could not only view the schedule, but also the synopsis of several movies that were screened at the festival,” says Shailaja. It was a treat for all movie buffs, she opines. “Facebook updates were also helpful at times. Since we youngsters are always on Facebook, it was good to know about the many activities going on, apart from movies being screened,” says Prithvi BJ, an MBA student. “I was able to watch only three films. However, I would have loved to watch some more. The quality of the films screened at the festival too was exceptional,” she adds. Ravichandra, an SBI employee says that the movies educated him on the different cultures of the world. “It was heart warming to get to know the culture of China, Israel, Greece, Poland and many others. The hardwork that went behind making such films was apparent. Indians have a lot to learn from these film-makers,” he expressed.While many applaud the ‘quality’ of films showcased, others feel that ‘mediocre’ or melodramatic films should be avoided in International Film Festivals. Bhumika Rajan, a research scholar feels that the placement of theatres was a big draw-back. “I watched around eighteen films. And, I could watch these movies only at one venue. If other theatres were any closer, I could have watched many other films.” As H N Narhari Rao, the artistic director of the film festival was heard quoting, “A film festival takes three to four years to establish its identity. We have a long way to go.” Yes, indeed.
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