The 18th Mumbai International Film Festival (MIFF) is gearing up for its annual event, scheduled from June 15 to 21 in Mumbai. This year, MIFF is extending its influence by hosting simultaneous screenings in various cities. Kicking off with “Billy & Molly, an Otter Love Story,” MIFF will wrap up with the screening of the Golden Conch winner. Organized by the National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), MIFF stands as one of the oldest and most esteemed festivals for non-feature films in South Asia.
With over 300 films slated for MIFF programming this year, organizers report a remarkable surge in submissions, receiving over 1000 films from 38 countries across 65 languages. Out of these submissions, 118 films have been meticulously selected by expert panels for the International (25) and National (77) competition segments, along with 16 films in MIFF PRISM. In total, 314 films will grace the MIFF screens, featuring premieres from across the globe.
This year’s edition boasts specially curated film packages, including acclaimed works from prestigious platforms like the Oscars and Berlinale, along with country-focused showcases from Russia, Japan, Belarus, Italy, Iran, Vietnam, and Mali. Additionally, there are thematic packages showcasing animation from France, Slovenia, Argentina, and Greece, as well as student films from renowned institutes nationwide. Restored classics from the NFDC-National Film Archives of India will also be highlighted, alongside thematic packages dedicated to wildlife, mission life, and films by Asian women filmmakers.
Distinguished personalities form the international and national juries, including luminaries like Keiko Bang, Barthélemy Fougea, Audrius Stonys, Bharat Bala, and Manas Choudhary. Awards ranging from the Golden Conch for the best documentary film to the Best Indian Documentary and Best Student Film will be conferred.
The 18th MIFF will also feature 20 masterclasses, in-conversations, and panel discussions with industry stalwarts like Santosh Sivan, Audrius Stonys, Ketan Mehta, and Richie Mehta.
Expanding its footprint, MIFF screenings will be held in Delhi, Kolkata, Chennai, and Pune, ensuring broader access to the festival’s enriching cinematic experiences.
