Netflix Revamps Partnership with IFFI for Film Festival Showcase

Netflix has renewed its collaboration with the International Film Festival of India (IFFI), which will take place from November 20 to 28, 2023, in Goa. This partnership encompasses a significant presence across the WAVES Film Bazaar programming and various festival showcases, including several premieres.

The streaming giant will co-host IFFI’s market segment, which features the Knowledge Series, Tech Pavilion, WAVES Film Bazaar, and a story pitching initiative aimed at supporting emerging voices in Indian entertainment. As part of the WAVES Film Bazaar, Netflix is organizing a three-day pitching forum where selected filmmakers and writers can present their projects directly to the platform’s content team. This initiative is designed to create pathways for new Indian storytellers, granting them direct access to decision-makers and potential development opportunities.

Netflix will also showcase festival premieres under the International Showcase section, opening with the film “Left-Handed Girl.” This title is Taiwan’s submission for the Oscars and is directed by Shih-Ching Tsou, co-written with Sean Baker. The festival will conclude with the much-anticipated Hindi-language film “Raat Akeli Hai: The Bansal Murders,” set to premiere on November 27. Led by acclaimed actors Nawazuddin Siddiqui and Radhika Apte, this sequel, directed by Honey Trehan, continues the gripping narrative of Inspector Jatil Yadav.

During the festival’s closing ceremony on November 28, Netflix will provide an exclusive preview of the second season of the Hindi-language series “Maamla Legal Hai,” featuring Ravi Kishen in a leading role.

The Tech Pavilion at this year’s festival will highlight Netflix’s commitment to accessibility, offering hands-on demonstrations for delegates. A dedicated booth will operate throughout the festival to showcase parental controls and the platform’s Kids and Family slate, promoting safe and informed viewing experiences for younger audiences.

Overall, this collaboration between Netflix and IFFI underscores the streaming service’s commitment to fostering emerging talent in the Indian entertainment industry while providing valuable opportunities for filmmakers and writers.