When the Kerala State Council for Child Welfare and Kerala State Chalachitra Academy got together about a month back to organise the first edition of the International Children’s Film Festival of Kerala, they were not too sure how it would be accepted. Choosing the films, with equal mix of Indian and international, was only part of the work.
They had to, in a short time, spread awareness of the festival and draw the attention of children, who were busy during the summer vacation.
But, when the curtain fell on the week-long festival on Sunday, there was no doubt that the organisers had achieved all that and more.
A majority of the 140 films ran to packed houses, with the young delegates making it a grand celebration with their cheers and whistles.
It was an opportunity for them to watch old classics like My Dear Kuttichathan and The Great Dictator as well as the latest children’s films from across the globe.
While some of them were accompanied by their parents, many high school students came as small groups. Most of them promised to return next year with more friends.
Inaugurating the valedictory function at the Kairali theatre, Speaker P.Sreeramakrishnan said the festival was a key cultural intervention by the Child Welfare Council.
“The festival was successful in creating a proper viewing culture and awareness. We live in times where the lack of proper awareness prevents us from sifting right from wrong. While mainstream films sell fantastic visuals, the festival showcased films which are closer to reality,” said Mr. Sreeramakrishnan.
Tourism Minister Kadakampally Surendran, who presided over the function, said the festival had proved wrong the notion that children’s films cannot attract crowds.
“Watching films here over a whole week and interacting with film-makers have given them confidence to make films of their own. From next year, the festival will have more support from the State government,” he said.
Delegates to the film festival came from all parts of Kerala.
For many children from tribal regions and orphanages across the State, it was the first opportunity to watch cinema on the big screen.
Child Welfare Council general secretary S.P. Deepak said the most heartening aspect of the film estival was that the children approached cinema in a serious manner.
