Cinematic Spectacle: The 30th International Film Festival of Kerala

The 30th International Film Festival of Kerala commences on Friday, showcasing 206 films from 82 countries. Highlights include a Lifetime Achievement Award for Abderrahmane Sissako, a retrospective on Youssef Chahine, and a focus on Garin Nugroho. The opening film, 'Palestine 36', has received international acclaim.

The 30th International Film Festival of Kerala is set to begin on Friday, offering an eight-day cinematic celebration with 206 films from 82 countries. The festival will open with 'Palestine 36', directed by Annemarie Jacir, a historical drama acclaimed at the Tokyo International Film Festival.

Highlights include the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award for Mauritanian filmmaker Abderrahmane Sissako. His influential works will be showcased, alongside a retrospective tribute to Egyptian director Youssef Chahine on his birth centenary. Indonesian director Garin Nugroho is featured in the Contemporary Filmmaker in Focus section.

Diverse categories such as World Cinema, Restored Classics, and Special Screenings, including Tarantino's 'Pulp Fiction', promise to captivate audiences. The festival also entails a competitive section with films vying for the Suvarna and Rajatha Chakoram awards, creating an enriching cultural experience.

(With inputs from agencies.)