6 spectacular film festivals, other than Cannes, that you shouldn’t miss

While the ongoing Cannes Film Festival continues to captivate us with its countless red-carpet looks, we cannot overlook the array of spectacular independent films marking their premiere. Films are one of the most compelling ways to narrate a story and film festivals such as Cannes help filmmakers boost the success of their projects and enter the limelight. Known for their history, prestige, opportunities, and global appeal, film festivals remind cinema lovers of the need for equality and representation.

In addition to the ongoing Cannes Film Festival, several other international film festivals bring established and emerging independent filmmakers and production studios from around the world to the audiences.

Venice Film Festival

Established in 1932, the Venice Film Festival is the oldest film festival in the world, and its first edition took place on August 6, as a part of the Venice Biennale. The festival is usually held in late August or early September on Lido island in Venice and is considered among the ‘Big Three’ along with Cannes and Berlin film festivals. This year’s event, taking place from August 28 to September 8, will screen around 275 films, 75 of which are national and international premieres. Each of these titles will be competing for the Golden Lion, a prize given to the best film screened at the Venice Film Festival.

Berlin International Film Festival

With as many as 3,00,000 tickets sold every year, the Berlinale, held every February, is one of the most popular film festivals around the world. The 10-day festival was established in West Berlin in 1951 during the Cold War. It showcases up to 400 films from diverse categories such as experimental and avant-garde works, short films, culinary themes etc, from which nearly 20 of them compete for the festival's Golden and Silver Bears. Additionally, the festival also hosts the European Film Market (EFM), which is an important networking event for the international film fraternity where art, glamour, and commerce unite. 

Toronto International Film Festival

Founded in 1976, the Toronto International Film Festival, also known as TIFF, is held in September every year right after Labour Day and goes on for 11 days; this year's edition will commence from September 5-15. This one is quite different from the other festivals mentioned on this list. For instance, here it is the attendees and not the jury members who give out the awards to filmmakers competing for the People’s Choice Award. Over the years, TIFF has grown to become one of the most influential film festivals in North America as many of the films shown here go on to win Academy Awards. Furthermore, it has been instrumental in putting Canada on the global film industry map and serves as the perfect platform for fall film releases to grab the spotlight. 

Sundance Film Festival

The Sundance Film Festival takes place every January in Park City, Utah. The festival was initially introduced, back in 1978, as a way to get more filmmakers to Utah (and keep them away from Hollywood), but has gone on to become the largest independent film festival in the United States. This year's edition, hosted from January 19-29, showcased 200 films (feature-length, short films, and documentaries), received from an estimated 9,000 submissions. Apart from being a remarkable celebration of independent films, the festival features musicians and panel discussions with leading industry figures to give spectators the ultimate creative festival community experience.

Hong Kong International Film Festival

Established in 1976, the Hong Kong International Film Festival is one of the oldest in Asia and is renowned for introducing the world to cinema from Hong Kong and across the continent. Over the years, the festival has produced and premiered short films by renowned Asian directors as well as debuted a host of feature films by upcoming Chinese filmmakers. This year’s event, held from March 28 to April 4, attracted an estimated 300 members of the international press through its screenings, interactions, exhibitions, and workshops. Today, the Hong Kong International Film Festival has become the country’s biggest cultural event and one of Asia’s most reputable platforms for filmmakers and enthusiasts to launch new work and experience outstanding films.

MAMI Mumbai Film Festival 

The MAMI Mumbai Film Festival, one of the most prestigious South Asian film festivals, focuses on building an ecosystem for new cinematic voices. It facilitates the exchange of ideas, collaborations, and business opportunities while bringing the best of world cinema to Mumbai. Scheduled to take place from October 19-24 this year, the festival remains committed to amplifying both emerging and established independent cinematic voices and nurturing the Indian audience to appreciate cinema from a new perspective. In addition to showcasing world cinema, the festival will engage various stakeholders through masterclasses, discussions, workshops, and expert panels. These initiatives are designed to foster critical thinking and facilitate meaningful dialogue, further enhancing the festival's cultural impact.

Lead image credit: MAMI

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Also read: The Cannes Film Festival has for long been a platform for dissent for the world of cinema