Ilm festivals give voice to ndian female filmmakers
here is euphoria, in general, about how the film world is owledging that female es have been errepresented, and now ing amends. While Cannes Festival, in a first, rtedly had 20 female makers in its Official ction, women directors unted for 44% of the petition at Venice Film ival last year, according to ety. At the Toronto Film ival last year, women ers were behind nearly of the films screened. ohena Gera, whose film oured several global film vals before releasing in a on an OTT platform, feels screenings give massive surance to filmmakers, ut their product. “Film vals are providing a great orm for voices of female makers,” she adds. ilm festivals allow films may not necessarily be to have a commercial orm, to be showcased,” es filmmaker Gauri de, adding, “They also look or unique talent and it’s emely encouraging to all s of filmmakers.” dian Film Festival of bourne (IFFM), too, saw a rd number of 32 women makers whose films will be ened this year. National rd-winning director Rima whose film For Each Other will be screened at IFFM, is happy that a change is set in motion. “It may take another 10 years to see significant change. But, I’m happy that there is a serious attempt to see stories from a woman’s voice and perspective,” adds the
Village Rockstars (2017) director.
Makers of documentaries and short films, too, are getting recognition. Director
Karishma Dube, whose short film Bittu will be screened at IFFM, says, “Making a short film comes with no guarantee that it will find an audience or a platform, so for the film to find a home across the world, it’s a massive honour for me. I hope I can attend the festival in person, someday soon.”
Akriti Singh, whose directorial debut Toofaan Mail was recently named best film (youth choice) at the UK Asian Film Festival, believes such a fest is a great platform to showcase a film, especially for newcomers. “It gives validation, and back home, amplifies chances of getting potential buyers as well,” says Singh, who also stars in the film.