12TH ANNUAL BOSTON INTERNATAIONAL KIDS FILM FESTIVAL SET TO TAKE PLACE NOVEMBER 22-24 AT MOSESIAN CENTER FOR THE ARTS IN WATERTOWN, MA

Festival for Families of Greater Boston to Showcase Films For, By and About Kids

The festival runs November 22-24, 2024 at Mosesian Center for the Arts in Watertown, MA. All screenings are open to the public and tickets can be purchased at bikff.org. Tickets for individual screenings start at $10 and festival passes begin at $59 for complete access to all screenings and question and answer sessions. Family discounts are available.

A program of Filmmakers Collaborative, BIKFF works to inspire kids to use the media to tell to tell their own stories while screening some of the best films that independent filmmaking has to offer.to offer. Both student and professional filmmakers will present full-length documentaries, animated shorts, and short narrative films appropriate for all ages (screenings are divided into age-appropriate blocks). The festival will also feature films made by students in FC Academy, an after-school and summer vacation filmmaking program that teaches students in grades k-8 how to make short films. More than half of the films being screened are student-made, with the producers and directors being 18 years or younger.

The festival kicks off on Friday, November 22 with a screening of "STAND UP & SHOUT." HBO Documentary Films, in association with Director and Producer Amy Schatz of Get Lifted Film Co., created this heartfelt documentary that follows a unique music program that teaches students to write, compose, produce, and perform original songs. Together with local musicians, they create an album that not only captures the challenging times they're living in, but also showcases the pure joy of making music . Mike Jackson, John Legend, Ty Stiklorius, and Tommy Benjamin are some of the film's influential executive producers.

The Saturday night feature will be ROBIN AND THE HOODS. Directed by Phil Hawkins, this family-friendly, action adventure stars Oscar-Nominee Naomie Harris (BOND, MOONLIGHT), Gwendoline Christie (STAR WARS, GAME OF THRONES), Mark Williams (HARRY POTTER) and Darcey Ewart (PRANCER: A CHRISTMAS TALE) and tells the story of an 11- year-old girl named Robin and her loyal band of friends, 'The Hoods', as they work to save their "magical kingdom" (the patch of scrubland on their street) from the threat of property development.

All day Saturday, November 23 and Sunday, November 24, the festival will feature a full slate of short films, sixty in total, across a wide range of categories. These films come from all over the world and are created by both professional filmmakers and students as young as 7 years old. This year's selections include a variety of powerful voices tackling issues like climate change and dyslexia, while others approach topics such as in-classroom learning with humor and heart.

In the festival's first "full circle" moment since its inception, local filmmaker and recent college graduate Ben Tobin, past recipient of BIKFF's "Best Student Film" award, now has a film in the professional short films category.

"All of our films showcase extraordinary kids doing things many adults only dream of," said Laura Azevedo, executive director of Filmmakers Collaborative, the festival's presenter. "At its heart, the Boston International Kids Film Festival is all about kids, and this year's selections highlight kids from all over the world doing some remarkable and inspiring work."

Awards will be presented for Best Docume

An overview of  15 important cinema related programs (In conversation, Masterclasses and Panel discussions) to be organized during 55th International Film Festival of India IFFI Goa 2024 by film critic Lalit Rao (FIPRESCI) dated 14.11.2024    

At film festivals, cinéphiles gain invaluable insights from conversations, masterclasses, and panel discussions that deepen their understanding of cinema. These events provide them unfettered access to filmmakers, critics, and industry professionals who share their knowledge and experiences. Cinéphiles learn about the creative processes behind filmmaking, from directorial vision and cinematographic techniques to sound design and editing choices. Through masterclasses, they gain technical expertise and an understanding of how films are crafted on a practical level.

Panel discussions often delve into thematic explorations, shedding light on the social, cultural, and philosophical issues explored in films. Cinephiles can engage with topics such as identity, memory, or political commentary, enhancing their ability to interpret and analyze films more critically. Additionally, they learn about the collaborative nature of filmmaking, where directors, writers, actors, and technical crew contribute to the final product.

Industry-related panels also illuminate the business side of cinema, discussing film distribution, marketing, and the role of festivals in launching films to global audiences. By connecting with fellow enthusiasts and engaging in critical debates, cinephiles broaden their perspectives and discover new films, filmmakers, and trends. Ultimately, these events enrich their appreciation for cinema as both an art form and a cultural force.

Below is the summary of 15 important cinema related events that would be organized at Kala Academy, Panaji during 55th International Film Festival of India IFFI Goa 2024. It includes brief biographical sketches of people whose work will be the focus of discussion.

Phillip Noyce is an Australian filmmaker known for his diverse and impactful work across various genres, including thrillers, dramas, and historical films. He gained international recognition with "Dead Calm" (1989), a psychological thriller, and further solidified his reputation with "Clear and Present Danger" (1994), a high-profile Hollywood action film based on Tom Clancy’s novel. Noyce's films often explore themes of moral complexity and political intrigue, such as in "The Quiet American" (2002), which examined the Vietnam War. His work is marked by a blend of suspenseful storytelling, strong characters, and a commitment to emotional depth, making him a respected figure in world cinema.

1. Australian director Philip Noyce [Patriot Games (1992), The Bone Collector (1999), Rabbit-Proof Fence (2002), Salt (2010), Newsfront (1978) and Dead Calm (1989)] will receive Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement for Excellence in cinema during 55th International Film Festival of India IFFI Goa 2024.

Raj Kapoor, known as the "Showman of Indian Cinema," revolutionized Bollywood with his blend of commercial appeal and deep humanism. As an actor, director, and producer, his films like "Awaara" (1951), "Shree 420" (1955), and "Mera Naam Joker" (1970) explored themes of love, social justice, and the struggles of the common man. Kapoor's work pioneered integrating social commentary with entertainment, and his collaboration with legendary composers created iconic music. Through his production house RK Films, he shaped the future of Bollywood, leaving a lasting legacy as a cultural icon and visionary filmmaker.

2 In conversation. Centenary Special : Celebrating the life and works of Raj Kapoor. Ranbir Kapoor talks to Rahul Rawail. 24/11/2024 Kala Academy 2:30 PM - 4:00 PM

IFFI, 2024, 09: In an era of wars & super violent films, let’s talk about Mahatma Gandhi & peace

ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal, a global award presented in partnership with (International Council for Film, Television and Audio-visual Communication (ICFT)/ Conseil International Du Cinéma, de la Télévision et de la Communication Audiovisuelle (CICT), Paris and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), will have 10 films competing for it. This award celebrates films that embody the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, particularly non-violence, tolerance, and social harmony, while promoting inter-cultural dialogue and peace. The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which will run from the 20th to the 28th November, has officially unveiled the ten nominees for the prestigious award.

When the General Conference of UNESCO was held in New Delhi, in 1956, the project of establishing an International Institute of Cinema and Television, presented by Professor Mario Verdone, Head of the Italian Delegation was approved. The project was entrusted to Jean Benoit-Levy, filmmaker and honorary director of the United Nations Cinema, assisted by a group of twelve international experts. The Constitutional Charter of the ICFT was signed on the 23rd of October 1958, and the leading federations and associations working in the field of audiovisual media became the founding members of the ICFT.

Each film represents different regions, cultures, and genres, yet united by their commitment to Gandhian principles. A distinguished jury, which includes prominent figures from the world of cinema and communication, such as Isabelle Danel (Honorary President of FIPRESCI - International Federation of Film Critics), Serge Michel (Vice President of CICT-ICFT), Maria Cristina Iglesias (former head of UNESCO’s Cultural Sector Programme), Dr. Ahmed Bedjaoui (Artistic Director of the Algiers International Film Festival), and Xue Yan Hun (Platform for Creativity and Innovation, CICT-ICFT youth branch), will evaluate these films based on their ethical depth, artistic excellence, and capacity to engage and educate audiences, particularly youth.

A list and synopsis of the films that will be screened at IFFI Goa, for the delegates, media and the jury are:

 1. Crossing

Swedish director Levan Akin, renowned for And Then We Danced (2019), presents a poignant drama exploring Istanbul's trans=gender community. The film navigates themes of class, gender, and sexuality through the journey of Lia, a retired teacher, in search of her niece Tekla. With an emphasis on kinship and transformation, the film won the Teddy Jury Award at the Berlin International Film Festival 2024.

 2. For Ra Na

Iranian filmmaker Iman Yazdi's (Yazd is a town in Iran) debut film, which premiered at the Busan International Film Festival earlier this year, follows the heart-breaking story of a couple struggling to secure a heart transplant for their daughter, raising profound questions of love, loss, and the ethics of medical choices.

 3. Lesson Learnt (Fekete Pont)

A powerful debut by Hungarian director Bálint Szimler, Lesson Learned critiques Hungary’s educational crisis through the eyes of a troubled child. Praised for its sharp social commentary, the film received accolades at the Locarno International Film Festival, 2024.

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IFFI, 2024, 09: In an era of wars & super violent films, let’s talk about Mahatma Gandhi & peace

ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal, a global award presented in partnership with (International Council for Film, Television and Audio-visual Communication (ICFT)/ Conseil International Du Cinéma, de la Télévision et de la Communication Audiovisuelle (CICT), Paris and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), will have 10 films competing for it. This award celebrates films that embody the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, particularly non-violence, tolerance, and social harmony, while promoting inter-cultural dialogue and peace. The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which will run from the 20th to the 28th November, has officially unveiled the ten nominees for the prestigious award.

When the General Conference of UNESCO was held in New Delhi, in 1956, the project of establishing an International Institute of Cinema and Television, presented by Professor Mario Verdone, Head of the Italian Delegation was approved. The project was entrusted to Jean Benoit-Levy, filmmaker and honorary director of the United Nations Cinema, assisted by a group of twelve international experts. The Constitutional Charter of the ICFT was signed on the 23rd of October 1958, and the leading federations and associations working in the field of audiovisual media became the founding members of the ICFT.

Each film represents different regions, cultures, and genres, yet united by their commitment to Gandhian principles. A distinguished jury, which includes prominent figures from the world of cinema and communication, such as Isabelle Danel (Honorary President of FIPRESCI - International Federation of Film Critics), Serge Michel (Vice President of CICT-ICFT), Maria Cristina Iglesias (former head of UNESCO’s Cultural Sector Programme), Dr. Ahmed Bedjaoui (Artistic Director of the Algiers International Film Festival), and Xue Yan Hun (Platform for Creativity and Innovation, CICT-ICFT youth branch), will evaluate these films based on their ethical depth, artistic excellence, and capacity to engage and educate audiences, particularly youth.

A list and synopsis of the films that will be screened at IFFI Goa, for the delegates, media and the jury are:

 1. Crossing

Swedish director Levan Akin, renowned for And Then We Danced (2019), presents a poignant drama exploring Istanbul's trans=gender community. The film navigates themes of class, gender, and sexuality through the journey of Lia, a retired teacher, in search of her niece Tekla. With an emphasis on kinship and transformation, the film won the Teddy Jury Award at the Berlin International Film Festival 2024.

 2. For Ra Na

Iranian filmmaker Iman Yazdi's (Yazd is a town in Iran) debut film, which premiered at the Busan International Film Festival earlier this year, follows the heart-breaking story of a couple struggling to secure a heart transplant for their daughter, raising profound questions of love, loss, and the ethics of medical choices.

 3. Lesson Learnt (Fekete Pont)

A powerful debut by Hungarian director Bálint Szimler, Lesson Learned critiques Hungary’s educational crisis through the eyes of a troubled child. Praised for its sharp social commentary, the film received accolades at the Locarno International Film Festival, 2024.

&n

IFFI, 2024, 09: In an era of wars & super violent films, let’s talk about Mahatma Gandhi & peace

ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal, a global award presented in partnership with (International Council for Film, Television and Audio-visual Communication (ICFT)/ Conseil International Du Cinéma, de la Télévision et de la Communication Audiovisuelle (CICT), Paris and United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), will have 10 films competing for it. This award celebrates films that embody the ideals of Mahatma Gandhi, particularly non-violence, tolerance, and social harmony, while promoting inter-cultural dialogue and peace. The 55th edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which will run from the 20th to the 28th November, has officially unveiled the ten nominees for the prestigious award.

When the General Conference of UNESCO was held in New Delhi, in 1956, the project of establishing an International Institute of Cinema and Television, presented by Professor Mario Verdone, Head of the Italian Delegation was approved. The project was entrusted to Jean Benoit-Levy, filmmaker and honorary director of the United Nations Cinema, assisted by a group of twelve international experts. The Constitutional Charter of the ICFT was signed on the 23rd of October 1958, and the leading federations and associations working in the field of audiovisual media became the founding members of the ICFT.

Each film represents different regions, cultures, and genres, yet united by their commitment to Gandhian principles. A distinguished jury, which includes prominent figures from the world of cinema and communication, such as Isabelle Danel (Honorary President of FIPRESCI - International Federation of Film Critics), Serge Michel (Vice President of CICT-ICFT), Maria Cristina Iglesias (former head of UNESCO’s Cultural Sector Programme), Dr. Ahmed Bedjaoui (Artistic Director of the Algiers International Film Festival), and Xue Yan Hun (Platform for Creativity and Innovation, CICT-ICFT youth branch), will evaluate these films based on their ethical depth, artistic excellence, and capacity to engage and educate audiences, particularly youth.

A list and synopsis of the films that will be screened at IFFI Goa, for the delegates, media and the jury are:

 1. Crossing

Swedish director Levan Akin, renowned for And Then We Danced (2019), presents a poignant drama exploring Istanbul's trans=gender community. The film navigates themes of class, gender, and sexuality through the journey of Lia, a retired teacher, in search of her niece Tekla. With an emphasis on kinship and transformation, the film won the Teddy Jury Award at the Berlin International Film Festival 2024.

 2. For Ra Na

Iranian filmmaker Iman Yazdi's (Yazd is a town in Iran) debut film, which premiered at the Busan International Film Festival earlier this year, follows the heart-breaking story of a couple struggling to secure a heart transplant for their daughter, raising profound questions of love, loss, and the ethics of medical choices.

 3. Lesson Learnt (Fekete Pont)

A powerful debut by Hungarian director Bálint Szimler, Lesson Learned critiques Hungary’s educational crisis through the eyes of a troubled child. Praised for its sharp social commentary, the film received accolades at the Locarno International Film Festival, 2024.

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