KIFF 29th KIFF: Australian filmmakers Bruce Beresford and Rolf de Heer talk of co-production agreement
Kolkata/IBNS: Australian filmmakers Bruce Beresford and Rolf de Heer talked about their country's collaboration with India on the second day of the 29th Kolkata International Film Festival (KIFF) here on Wednesday.
Emphasised by Prime Ministers Anthony Albanese and Narendra Modi, this agreement not only broadens audience reach for both Indian and Australian producers but also facilitates audiences’ connections with fresh narratives.
The co-production agreement’s highlights include access to government funding support including grants, subsidies and tax concessions. This collaboration signifies a significant chapter for the Australian and Indian film industries.
Bruce Beresford (R) | Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS
Award-winning director, Bruce Beresford says, "Australian cinema is a treasure trove of diverse narratives, and the Kolkata International Film Festival provides a global stage for audiences to immerse themselves in storytelling.
"The warmth and passion of Indian audiences, coupled with the universal language of cinema, create a unique connection. I’m thrilled to share the magic of Australian films with a vibrant community that truly appreciates the art of storytelling."
Acclaimed Australian filmmaker and screenwriter, Rolf de Heer says, "Film is a universal language, which has the power to transcend boundaries and connect people from different parts of the world. The Kolkata International Film Festival is a celebration of this shared language, where films from many different countries can find a home in the hearts of diverse audiences.
"It is a pleasure for me that a wide variety of Australian storytelling has been brought to Kolkata; I believe their differences will be engaged with and embraced."
Australia is the special focus country in the 29th edition of KIFF, which was inaugurated on Tuesday.
Rolf de Heer (C) | Image by Avishek Mitra/IBNS
The festival will showcase a selection of Australian cinema in three categories, including contemporary gems like The Dry, Sweet As, and Shayda; horror film enthusiasts can look forward to terrifying titles like Wolf Creek, Sissy, Picnic at Hanging Rock and 100 Bloody Acres.
The diverse film lineup encapsulates the spirit of collaboration which the co-Production agreement will foster and serves as a testament to the enduring ties between Australia and India in the realm of cinema.
The festival will run till December 12.
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