The ninth edition of the Bengaluru International Film Festival (Biffes) that concluded in the grand environs of Mysuru Palace on Thursday evening has received a good response from film enthusiasts, making it a grand success. This is the second year of Biffes in Mysuru.
“Almost all the films, including the foreign ones, attracted crowds beyond our expectations. Some films saw packed halls, indicating the steady growth of film culture in Mysuru. The audiences were mature and equally divided among the four halls ensuring seats for viewers for every film screened,” said Biffes Mysuru Coordinator Manu. The festival saw 900 registrations this year, while the registrations last year were 750, he told The Hindu. Only those above 18 years of age could register.
On an average, film enthusiasts watched three films a day. About 20 were screened daily. Some had repeat screenings. Biffes has managed to create a curiosity and develop a liking towards good cinema, particularly world cinema and art movies, in Mysuru, he added.
Hariprasad, a film enthusiast, said many theatre and literary enthusiasts got to meet filmmakers and interact with them. The informal interactions helped them learn about filmmaking. There were about 60 entries in Indian cinema competition.
One of the jury members of Biffes, said at the closing ceremony, “I have been to many film festivals, but nothing can compare to the ambience of illuminated Mysuru Palace.”
