IFFK Confirms Screening of All Films Amid Censorship Controversy

The International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) will proceed with screenings of all scheduled films despite facing censorship challenges. This announcement comes amidst ongoing controversy surrounding the clearance of 19 films, with significant backing from the Kerala government, as confirmed by Kerala Chalachitra Academy Chairman Resul Pookutty. The festival, taking place from December 12 to 19, 2023, aims to uphold artistic expression.

In a video message, Pookutty stated, “I am happy to let you know, dousing all the fire on the controversies regarding film screening in the IFFK, we are going ahead with all the screenings of the film as scheduled as per the notification issued by the Kerala government and long live cinema.” This decision reflects the state’s commitment to defending freedom of expression, particularly in the wake of delays in obtaining official censor exemptions for several films, including those addressing the Palestine conflict and the classic Battleship Potemkin by Sergei Eisenstein.

Earlier in the day, four of the 19 films awaiting clearance received official exemptions from the central government. These films include Beef, Eagles of The Republic, Heart of The Wolf, and Once Upon A Time In Gaza. Sources indicate that discussions were held with the Union Ministry of Information and Broadcasting to facilitate these approvals.

The film Beef follows Lati, a young woman from the outskirts of Barcelona, who utilizes freestyle rap to confront grief and societal challenges following her father’s death. Meanwhile, the remaining 15 films, still pending clearance, encompass a diverse range of themes, with a notable inclusion of Eisenstein’s celebrated work.

Political figures have expressed their discontent regarding the censorship. Shashi Tharoor, Congress MP, criticized the denial of clearance, referring to it as a manifestation of “cinematic illiteracy” and “bureaucratic over-cautiousness.” Tharoor has called upon External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar and Union Minister Vaishnaw to expedite the approval process for the films.

Echoing similar sentiments, Saji Cherian, Kerala’s Cultural Affairs Minister, also condemned the restrictions imposed on the screenings, underscoring the importance of artistic freedom in a democratic society.

As the festival unfolds, it remains to be seen how this situation will impact the public’s engagement with the films. The IFFK has historically been a platform for diverse cinematic voices, and the current controversy has highlighted the tensions between artistic expression and governmental oversight in India.