- By JE Entertainment Desk
- Tue, 10 Dec 2024 05:49 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
JFF 2024: The Delhi chapter of the Jagran Film Festival 2024 concluded on December 8, leaving cinema enthusiasts captivated by a stunning array of films. The festival, which began its Delhi leg on December 5, welcomed cinephiles, filmmakers and industry insiders who engaged in lively discussions about the magic of cinema. This year, the festival set a remarkable precedent by presenting 5,000 films from over 110 countries, encompassing short films, animation and full-length feature films.
Known as a milestone for low-budget and independent films, the Jagran Film Festival has become a platform for budding filmmakers to shine. Among the noteworthy highlights was the French short film On the Bridge, a mere four minutes long, which impressed audiences with its silent storytelling and stellar performances. On the regional front, the Haryanvi film Dhara ka Time struck an emotional chord, narrating the story of a homemaker with remarkable poignancy.
The festival also brought the spotlight on Iranian cinema with Chai, a gripping thriller that kept viewers hooked with its taut screenplay and minimalistic presentation. Other acclaimed films included Investigator, Bengal 1947, National Award-winning filmmaker Onir's We Are Faheem and Karun (a Hindi-Kashmiri film) and Rima Das' Assamese gem Village Rockstars 2.
Celebrities such as Bhumi Pednekar, Taapsee Pannu, Pankaj Kapur, Rajpal Yadav, Manoj Bajpayee, Mukesh Chhabra and others participated in insightful conversations with moderators, shedding light on life behind the cameras, the filmmaking process and the movie business.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram
The animation category emerged as a fan favourite, with films like Appu: Elephant Life Matters gaining applause for their heartfelt themes and engaging narratives. Meanwhile, Germany's Fall from the Grace won hearts with its simplicity and depth, showcasing the power of international storytelling.
One of the festival's standout features is its commitment to making cinema accessible to all. Unlike other costly film festivals, the Jagran Film Festival extends its reach to rural and remote areas, offering a cinematic experience beyond Bollywood’s grandeur. It aims to bridge the gap between rural and urban audiences, celebrating the universality of storytelling. This year, the festival honoured women directors and filmmakers, encouraging their contributions to the art of cinema. Their increased participation underscored the festival’s commitment to promoting diversity and inclusivity in the film industry.
The Jagran Film Festival 2024 will continue its journey across 18 Indian cities, showcasing the best of cinema over three months. It is set to culminate in March 2025, solidifying its reputation as one of India’s most dynamic film festivals. With its wide array of content and unique programming, the festival has become a cultural landmark for filmmakers and cinema lovers alike.
View this post on Instagram
View this post on Instagram