Tag: filmmaking

Events in Goa, IFFI 2025

Masterclass on “The New AI Cinema” Explores the Future of Filmmaking at IFFI 2025

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

The sixth day of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) 2025 delivered one of the festival’s most forward-looking conversations through its masterclass titled “The New AI Cinema: A Discourse on Generative AI and Large Language Models (LLMs)”. The session brought together eminent voices from technology and cinema, including technologist Shankar Ramakrishnan, AI expert V. Muralitharan, and internationally celebrated filmmaker Shekhar Kapur, who led an engaging and visionary dialogue on how rapidly developing artificial intelligence tools are reshaping the art and craft of filmmaking.

The session opened with Ravi Kottarakara honouring Shekhar Kapur for his pioneering impact on Indian cinema, highlighting his innovative approach to storytelling and his enduring influence with films like Mr. India, still celebrated for its technical brilliance and cultural legacy. Kapur reflected on the profound shift unfolding across the world with the rise of AI, describing it as the most democratic medium ever introduced to filmmaking. He emphasised that AI has dissolved long-standing barriers, giving unprecedented creative access to individuals who previously had limited pathways into the industry. Illustrating this point, he shared an anecdote about his cook who used ChatGPT to create a script for Mr. India 2, demonstrating how transformative and inclusive AI-powered creativity has become.

Kapur expressed confidence that India, home to the world’s largest youth population, is poised to take a leading role in shaping the future of film technology. He also clarified the difference between traditional VFX and AI-driven processes, noting that while VFX involves crafting or modifying visuals digitally, AI leverages machine-learning models to automate, enhance, or even generate creative elements, fundamentally shifting the way films can be conceived and executed.

Technologists Shankar Ramakrishnan and V. Muralitharan expanded the conversation by demonstrating how modern AI tools such as ChatGPT and Google Gemini assist filmmakers across multiple stages of production, from scripting and storyboarding to generating detailed shot descriptions including lighting, camera angles, and visual dynamics. They showcased their AI-enhanced project The Turban and The Rock, written by Raja Rao, explaining how various AI platforms were integrated seamlessly into its creation.

The interactive Q&A session that followed encouraged deeper conversations about the larger possibilities of AI in cinema. The panellists highlighted how emerging technologies can support documentary production, archival restoration, film education, and creative ideation. Audiences were given a glimpse into the future through the screening of an AI-generated short documentary titled The Lost Legends, which demonstrated the growing sophistication of AI-driven visual storytelling.

Despite the enthusiasm surrounding technological advancement, Shekhar Kapur grounded the discussion by reminding the audience that cinema’s true heart lies in human emotion. He emphasised that while AI can accelerate processes and expand creative possibilities, it is ultimately the human artist who breathes life, meaning, and emotional depth into a film.

The session concluded with a touching tribute to legendary actor Dharmendra, honouring his immense contribution to Indian cinema and reminding attendees that while the tools of filmmaking may evolve, the soul of the art remains in the stories and performances that connect deeply with audiences.

Events in Goa

Aamir Khan Headlines Fireside Chat at IFFI 2025: “The Narrative Architect of Social Transformation”

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo || Team Allycaral

Aamir Khan’s presence at the 56th International Film Festival of India adds a rare and compelling dimension to this year’s celebration of cinema. Appearing for a special Fireside Chat titled “The Narrative Architect of Social Transformation,” Aamir brings with him decades of experience in crafting stories that resonate far beyond the screen. Known for his unwavering commitment to socially rooted narratives, he has consistently challenged mainstream cinema to be more introspective, more accountable, and more willing to spark uncomfortable yet necessary conversations. This session offers audiences a closer look at the intention and responsibility that guide his work—how he approaches each film not just as entertainment, but as an opportunity to shift perspectives and inspire collective dialogue.

The conversation, moderated by acclaimed film critic and writer Baradwaj Rangan, invites a thoughtful exploration of storytelling, purpose, and the evolving role of cinema in shaping culture. Aamir reflects on the choices that have defined his filmography, the meticulous process behind building narratives with impact, and the emotional and creative demands of aligning art with meaningful social commentary. As he speaks about the challenges of balancing artistic expression with public expectation, he also emphasizes the transformative potential that cinema holds when crafted with sincerity and awareness.

The Fireside Chat becomes more than a festival highlight—it becomes a timely reflection on the intersection between creativity and conscience. At a moment when audiences are seeking stories that resonate with truth and depth, Aamir Khan’s insights reaffirm the powerful link between filmmaking and societal change. Hosted at the iconic Kala Academy in Goa, the event captures the essence of what IFFI continues to champion: cinema not just as an art form, but as a catalyst for progress, empathy, and enduring conversation.

Events in Goa

Pete Draper to Reveal the Magic Behind Movie VFX at the 56th IFFI

Tanisha Cardozo

Written by Tanisha Cardozo

Goa, October 2025 — The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) is set to captivate cinema enthusiasts with a special session featuring renowned VFX Supervisor Pete Draper, whose visionary work has redefined visual storytelling in Indian cinema. Known for creating breathtaking visuals in cinematic blockbusters like Baahubali, RRR, and several international projects, Draper will take audiences behind the scenes to explore how technology and imagination combine to create movie magic.

At IFFI 2025, Draper will share insights into the evolving world of visual effects — from concept visualization and CGI integration to the seamless blending of digital environments with live action. His talk will highlight the creative and technical processes that transform directors’ visions into spectacular visual experiences.

A veteran in the field of digital artistry, Pete Draper has been instrumental in shaping the modern landscape of Indian VFX. His expertise spans a diverse range of cinematic styles, from historical epics to futuristic fantasies. His work on Baahubali and RRR showcased how Indian cinema could achieve Hollywood-level visual grandeur, inspiring a new generation of filmmakers and digital artists.

The 56th edition of IFFI continues to emphasize the confluence of art, technology, and innovation in cinema. Sessions like these not only offer a glimpse into the craftsmanship behind filmmaking but also celebrate the collaborative spirit that defines the film industry.

The National Film Development Corporation (NFDC), the nodal agency behind IFFI, has consistently brought together global film experts, creative professionals, and cinema lovers to exchange ideas, explore new perspectives, and honor the evolving art of filmmaking.

Audiences attending IFFI 2025 can look forward to a captivating deep dive into the artistry of VFX — where imagination meets innovation, and the impossible becomes cinematic reality.

Films

Goan Filmmaker,  Miransha Naik Returns 14 Awards in Protest Against ESG Grading

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Written by Intern Queeny George M.H, Team Allycaral

Goan filmmaker Miransha Naik has taken a bold and unprecedented step by returning all 14 awards his film Juze won at the recent Goa State Film Festival, organised by the Entertainment Society of Goa (ESG). His decision stems from a serious protest against the ESG’s evaluation of the same film as ‘C’ grade in its long-delayed Film Finance Scheme — a move that has raised eyebrows and sparked debate across the Indian film community.

Juze, a critically acclaimed Konkani film that brought international attention to Goa’s regional cinema, had swept the awards at the state-level event, establishing Naik’s voice as one of the strongest in contemporary Konkani storytelling. However, the filmmaker expressed deep disappointment when the ESG, which had just celebrated his work, assigned it the lowest grade possible in its finance evaluation process.

This grading has significant implications — not just financial, but symbolic — as it determines whether filmmakers receive state support to continue their work. For Naik, it was a contradiction too stark to ignore. Returning the awards, he stated that such grading undermines not only his film’s merit but also the broader credibility of the ESG’s support for homegrown cinema.

The move has reignited concerns over transparency, consistency, and fairness within the ESG’s evaluation framework. For many in the regional and national film industry, Naik’s protest is a wake-up call — a demand for clearer policies and genuine encouragement for films that aim to elevate Konkani cinema on the global stage.

As the story unfolds, it remains to be seen whether this protest will lead to any institutional change. What’s clear is that Miransha Naik has made a powerful statement: recognition means little without respect and integrity in the process that grants it.

Entertainment

Screen Academy Launches to Identify and Empower Future Voices of Indian Cinema

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Mumbai, July 8, 2025 – The Indian Express Group has officially launched Screen Academy, a bold and visionary not-for-profit initiative aimed at supporting emerging talent in Indian cinema through fellowships, mentorship, and formal education.

Screen Academy will work in partnership with India’s leading film institutes — FTII (Pune), SRFTI (Kolkata), and Whistling Woods International (Mumbai) — to identify exceptional students who demonstrate storytelling potential but lack the financial resources to continue their education. These students will receive fully funded postgraduate fellowships, along with access to industry mentorship from some of the country’s most respected film professionals.

Backed by the Lodha Foundation and conceptualized by Anant Goenka, Executive Director of The Indian Express Group, the initiative is designed to institutionalize excellence and build an ecosystem that celebrates and nurtures creativity in cinema.

“We will create an ecosystem that not only celebrates excellence but actively nurtures diverse and promising talent with both financial aid and access,” Goenka said.

A Powerful Line-Up of Members
The Academy’s founding members include award-winning producers, directors, and screenwriters:

  • Guneet Monga – Oscar-winning Producer (The Elephant Whisperers)
  • Payal Kapadia – Cannes Grand Prix winner
  • Resul Pookutty – Oscar-winning Sound Designer
  • Anjum Rajabali – Screenwriter & Academic
  • Subhash Ghai – Founder, Whistling Woods
  • Ronnie Screwvala – Founder of RSVP Films

More members will be announced on www.screenacademy.org.

Educational Integration with National Institutions
The Academy’s 2025 fellowships will begin with FTII, SRFTI, and WWI, with future plans to expand to other film schools. Selected students will receive full tuition support and gain hands-on learning through:

  • Masterclasses by leading filmmakers
  • Internships with top production houses
  • Industry mentorship and ongoing professional support

“Some of our students come from very modest backgrounds,” said Samiran Dutta (SRFTI). “The Screen Academy fellowships will give them the chance to tell their stories to the world.”

“Access to quality education transforms lives,” added Meghna Ghai Puri (WWI). “This is about ensuring creativity isn’t blocked by lack of funding.”

Recognition Through the Screen Awards
Screen Academy will also oversee the revival of the iconic Screen Awards, with voting conducted by its members to ensure credibility. These awards will celebrate artistry and innovation across Indian entertainment including film, music, regional cinema, and new media.

A special Resident Critics Panel has been formed for transparent evaluations, featuring:

  • Dr. Priya Jaikumar (USC)
  • Priyanka Sinha Jha (Curator)
  • Shubra Gupta (Indian Express)
  • Nikhil Taneja (We Are Yuvaa)
  • Anjum Rajabali (WWI, FTII)

About Screen
Re-acquired from Disney in 2024, Screen has re-emerged as India’s leading digital-first entertainment brand. With over 40 million monthly users and programming in Hindi, English, Marathi, and Tamil, it continues to serve as a hub for authentic, engaging entertainment journalism.