IFFI has lost its glory, says Buddhadeb Dasgupta

Slamming the International Film Festival of India jury, veteran filmmaker Buddhadeb Dasgupta -- whose film "Tope" was rejected by the festival jury -- on Tuesday said that the film fest has lost its glory.

He also said young filmmakers are being deprived of opportunities to showcase good work.

"My film has been shown at very important film festivals, in important film sections. I have seen the crowd there. They have been following my films for years."

"A section of audience in India will be missing the film. When they (IFFI) started in the good old days, they were really really good ... the film selectors, festival directors etc. This is the first time my film is not being screened at IFFI. Now I feel IFFI has really lost its glory," Dasgupta told the media here at the 22nd Kolkata International Film Festival.

"I don't find anyone good for quite some time," he lamented.

Criticising the showcase of films at IFFI, Dasgupta noted the trend is dangerous for young filmmakers.

"It is dangerous for young filmmakers. The selectors... I don't even know who selects them. There are people like Adoor Gopalakrishnan and myself who have given their life to films. How can IFFI do that," he questioned.

Dasgupta remarked he had "nothing to lose" but it's the audience and the young filmmakers who are losing out.

"I don't need support from government, from anyone, nor from the media. I am afraid for the young filmmakers," he added.

--IANS

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