IFFK 2025 backs fresh voices, puts spotlight on debut films

Marking its 30th edition, the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) has adopted an ambitious and supportive vision this year by opening its screens to new filmmakers. By giving strong space to debut films, the festival positions itself as a platform that encourages fresh voices. This move signals a growing platform and exposure for budding artists. This year’s line-up features one of the highest numbers of debut films in the Malayalam Cinema Today (MCT) and Indian Cinema Now (ICN) sections.

In MCT, nine films and all seven films selected under ICN are debut works. Chalachithra Academy Programme Assistant Bharath Jayakumar said this marks a noticeable shift towards fresher voices and themes that resonate with younger audiences. “There is a clear attempt to bring in new perspectives and content that audiences can connect with,” Bharath told Onmanorama.

Responding to the selection, director Nipin Narayanan said this year’s line-up stood out for its freshness and focus on unseen work. “Festival sections often include films that have already had theatrical releases or commercial success, and films that audiences may have already watched. But this time, most of the selections were films people have not seen before, including works by first-time filmmakers,” he said.

Nipin, whose first film, ‘Kathiruppu,’ was screened under the MCT section at IFFK, noted that this approach reflects the core purpose of film festivals — to provide space for independent voices and varied forms of filmmaking. “Such platforms are not meant to repeatedly offer space to those who already have it. Instead, they should welcome filmmakers who have not yet found visibility, purely on the strength of their work,” he said.

According to him, by opening its doors widely to new filmmakers, IFFK sends a strong signal to aspiring creators. “When a festival like IFFK offers a stage to showcase such work, it builds confidence among those who want to make films in the future. That is why I am very happy with this year’s selection process,” he added.

Vishnu B Beena, director of ‘Chaavu Kalyanam’, highlighted the importance of platforms like IFFK for emerging filmmakers, particularly those working with limited resources. “Having such a large platform is a very good thing because it allows us to get to know many directors and producers. We also receive direct responses from the audience and get to meet new people, which helps us build connections,” he said, underscoring the role of institutional support. “For a filmmaker, the kind of support provided by the government is extremely important.”

He noted that many of the films selected at the festival, especially debut works, are made on very small budgets. “This festival offers strong support to such films,” he said, adding that IFFK marked his first film festival experience. “It has been a truly valuable experience for me as a filmmaker.”