The Bengaluru International Film Festival (BIFFes) is set to commence its 17th edition on Thursday, yet several politically charged films remain in limbo, awaiting clearance from the Central Board of Film Certification (CBFC). This development comes in the wake of recent controversy at the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), where 19 films, including those addressing Palestinian issues and cinematic classics like Battleship Potemkin, were denied approval.
Palestinian Documentaries in Focus
Among the films pending certification are multiple Palestinian documentaries that delve into the ongoing Israel-Palestine conflict. The Voice of Hind Rajab documents the tragic death and attempted rescue of a child of the same name, offering a poignant look at human suffering. Another film, Put Your Soul On Your Hand and Walk, captures the realities of the Gaza war through the lens of video calls with photojournalist Fatima Hassouna, providing an intimate perspective on the crisis.
Additionally, Palestine 36 explores the historical Palestinian revolt against British rule from 1936, adding a layer of historical context to contemporary political discussions. These films highlight the festival's commitment to showcasing diverse narratives, though their screening remains uncertain due to regulatory hurdles.
Nadav Lapid's Satirical Critique
Also awaiting CBFC clearance is Yes!, a satirical film by Israeli filmmaker Nadav Lapid that offers a sharp critique of Israeli state and politics. Lapid, who previously served as a judge at the International Film Festival of India in November 2022, gained attention for his strong criticism of the film The Kashmir Files. His latest work is expected to spark discussions on political satire and freedom of expression in cinema.
Festival Theme and Venue Changes
Organised by the Karnataka Chalanachitra Academy and the Department of Information, the festival will run until February 6 under the theme 'Woman As She Is' or 'Stree Yendare Ashte Saake' in Kannada, inspired by a poem by renowned Kannada poet and writer Dr G S Shivarudrappa. This theme underscores a focus on women's narratives and representation in film.
While two previous screening venues, Dr Rajkumar Bhavana in Chamrajpet and Suchitra Film Society, remain unchanged, screenings will now be held at the Lulu Mall in Rajajinagar instead of the Orion Mall. Organisers cited the additional space at the new venue as a key factor, allowing for seminars and workshops without disrupting cinema hall screenings.
Diverse Film Lineup and Classics
The festival's lineup spans international cinema, including Hindi and Arabic productions, as well as a German documentary on Nobel laureate Elfriede Jelinek. For fans of classic films, the 1978 Kannada movie Paduvarahalli Pandavaru will be featured, offering a commentary on feudal oppression with parallels to the Mahabharata.
Another highlight is the restored 1953 French romantic drama The Earrings of Madame de…, celebrated as a pinnacle of French cinema and an Oscar nominee for costume design. These selections reflect the festival's blend of contemporary issues and timeless artistry.
As the Bengaluru International Film Festival prepares to open, the pending CBFC approvals for Palestinian films and Lapid's satire highlight ongoing tensions between artistic expression and regulatory oversight in India's film industry.
