Wednesday, August 21, 2024 Chandigarh University International Film Festival 2024 (CUIFF’24) is gearing up to launch on August 22, offering a two-day celebration of global cinema’s creativity, diversity, and innovation. The festival, held at the Chandigarh University campus in Gharuan, promises to bring the enchantment of filmmaking to life with a stellar roster of distinguished guests from the cinematic world. Organized by Chandigarh University’s Department of Animation in partnership with the Vancouver Film School, Canada’s leading institution for entertainment arts, CUIFF’24 is set to be an extraordinary celebration of film, creativity, and cultural exchange.
This event will serve as a vital platform for filmmakers, offering both seasoned professionals and rising stars the chance to present their work to an international audience. Prof. Pamil Arora, Head of the University Institute of Film and Visual Arts (UIFVA), emphasized that the Chandigarh University International Film Festival (CUIFF) stands as a premier event honoring global cinema, with Chandigarh University hosting this annual celebration since 2015.
“CUIFF has garnered a reputation as one of the most eagerly awaited film festivals in the region. This festival draws filmmakers, critics, and cinema lovers from around the world. The festival’s rebranding in 2023 from the International Film Festival Chandigarh (IFFC) to CUIFF reflects its growing prominence and deeper association with Chandigarh University, ” he said.
CUIFF’24 showcases a diverse range of categories, including Best Short Film, Best Experimental Animation, Best 2D/3D Animated Short Film, Best VFX Short Film, Best Showreel, and Best Documentary, among many others. According to Prof Arora, the festival will feature insights from leading figures in the film industry, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment. CUIFF’24 promises to be an essential event for all cinema enthusiasts and those interested in the future of filmmaking.
“As CUIFF continues to grow, it remains dedicated to celebrating the artistry, diversity, and innovation in cinema, firmly establishing itself as a beacon of creativity and excellence on the global film festival circuit,” he added. On the opening day of CUIFF’24 (22 August), in addition to film screenings and performances, attendees can look forward to insightful sessions exploring the intricate collaboration between scriptwriting, art direction, and production leadership in the Film and Animation industries. These sessions will delve into how these key elements work in harmony to create cohesive narratives.
Esteemed participants include BN Vichar, a distinguished Art Director celebrated for his contributions to the gaming world, Lalita Deopa, the CEO of Prismart Productions, who will share her insights as a leading figure in animation and production, and Angelene Kaur, a gifted screenwriter, who will discuss the nuances of storytelling in cinema. The festival will continue on 23 August with significant guest appearances. Ashish Kulkarni, Chairman of FICCI for the AVGC Forum, will impart his extensive knowledge in the fields of animation, visual effects, gaming, and comics.
Rohit Tiwari, an accomplished actor, writer, and director, known for his powerful performances and creative storytelling in films like Dhobi Ghat, Saheb Biwi Aur Gangster, Mission Mangal, Mirzapur, and Dream Girl, as well as the popular TV show ‘Crime Patrol,’ will engage the audience in an exploration of the filmmaking process. Additionally, Sanjay Khimesara, President of Asifa India, will contribute his expertise in animation and digital arts, adding depth to the festival’s discussions and activities. A panel discussion titled ‘The Globalization of Indian Cinema: Challenges and Opportunities in Live Action, Animation, and Industry Growth’ will also be held, focusing on the global reach of Indian cinema, with an emphasis on live-action, animation, and the impact of industry organizations like FICCI and ASIFA.
The festival will conclude on a vibrant note with a dynamic Bhangra performance by students from Chandigarh University, wrapping up the event with a musical celebration. In a video message for CUIFF’24, Rohit Tiwari said during CUIFF’24, the best films of the world will be shown. “So, let’s meet on 23 August at the film festival being held at Chandigarh University and celebrate this festival of the cinema world,” he said.
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