The 6th Bengaluru International Film Festival, to be inaugurated by film star Kamal Haasan and Chief Minister Siddaramaiah on December 26, has already seen close to 2,000 delegate registrations and is expected to touch at least 3,000 by the time the festival kicks off.
Speaking at a press conference here on Monday, artistic director of the festival H.N. Narahari Rao said that the organisers would take a call on whether there would also be daily passes, besides delegate passes, depending on the number of registrations.
About 160 films will be screened at seven venues in the week-long festival. In an effort to overcome the problem faced last year — of some theatres not being able to accommodate all viewers — screenings will be held in bigger halls, he said. “Any festival evolves over years, learning along the way,” he said, adding that the ultimate aim was to have a permanent venue, permanent calendar and international recognition.
Mr. Rao said 57 delegates, including 20 foreign delegates, have confirmed their participation in the festival. The opening film of the festival at Jnanajyothi Auditorium will be Iraqi film “Bekas” directed by Karzan Kader. The closing film on January 2 will be Australian film “The Rocket” directed by Kim Mordaunt.
Final touchesRegular screenings at the seven venues will commence from December 27 and there will be five screenings per day in each theatre. Mr. Rao said that final touches were being given to the schedule, which would be released.
A series of panel discussions and master classes will be held as part of the festival, added N.R. Vishu Kumar, Director of the Information Department. Audience award will be given as a special feature this year.
