The 21st Chennai International Film Festival started at PVR Sathyam Cinemas on December 14, scheduled to run until December 21. Surprisingly, this edition of the festival lacks the usual enthusiasm, with notable absences of ministers and renowned Tamil actors who typically attend. Adding to the perplexity is the absence of prior public information about the event, along with a noticeable lack of preparations and performances. This unprofessional conduct raises questions, particularly considering the Tamil Nadu Government’s allocation of Rs 85 lakh for the film festival.
Criticism has been directed towards the event organizers, who are accused of contributing to the lacklustre atmosphere. Allegations include the organizers being responsible for the absence of leading stars and ministers. Furthermore, participants who eagerly looked forward to engaging in the festival reported dissatisfaction, claiming inadequate facilities provided by the organizers.
Despite the subdued response, notable figures from the film fraternity such as director Mohan Raja, actor Yugi Sethu, and actress Parvati Nair have participated in the Chennai International Film Festival. However, prominent icons of Tamil and Malayalam cinema, Kamal Haasan, and Mammootty were notably absent, despite their presence at the recently concluded Kerala Film Festival. Stars who attended the Pune Film Festival were also absent from the Chennai Film Festival.
According to a report in the Times of India, the festival’s lineup includes films like 2018: Everyone Is A Hero (India), The Teachers Lounge (Germany), and Perfect Days (Japan). Other featured films include Do Not Expect Too Much From The End Of The World (Romania) and Fallen Leaves (Finland). Additionally, films such as Inshallah A Boy (Jordan), Sweet Dreams (Netherlands), and Melody (Tajikistan) will be screened. The festival will showcase a diverse selection from countries like Mexico, France, and Taiwan, among others, totalling 126 films from 57 countries.
In light of the observed lack of fervour and participation, concerns persist over the apparent shortcomings in the organization and execution of the Chennai International Film Festival, prompting a need for introspection and improvement in subsequent editions.