Imtiaz Ali’s “My Melbourne” reaches IIFM
Jamshedpur, July 31, 2024:
The organizers of the 15th Annual Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) have announced that “My Melbourne,” a joint project by well-known Indian filmmakers Kabir Khan, Imtiaz Ali, Onir, and Rima Das, will start this year’s event. The festival, which runs from August 15th to 25th, 2024, will present a colorful selection of films that highlight the range of Indian cinema.
“My Melbourne,” a new project backed by Vic Screen and Screen Australia, shows a key Indo-Australian teamwork. This collection of short films looks into Melbourne’s cultural mix taking ideas from real events. Each part—Emma by Rima Das Jules by Imtiaz Ali Nandini by Onir, and Setara by Kabir Khan—explores race, gender, sexuality, and disability matching the festival’s aim to include everyone.
Mitu Bhowmick Lange, Festival Director, shared her excitement: “Starting with ‘My Melbourne’ fits right in with our goal to boost different stories. This film shows how sharing stories can help people around the world understand each other better.”
Director Rima Das talked about her movie stressing its emotional power and true-to-life portrayal of disability. “We want to get people talking about including everyone in art and other areas,” she said pointing out how people from different countries worked together.
Kabir Khan spoke about why he joined the project drawn to Setara’s inspiring story from Afghanistan to Melbourne where she found comfort in cricket. “This shows how tough people can be,” he said praising the teamwork with local talent.
Imtiaz Ali touched by stories of women who had to leave their homes and now live in Melbourne, called the film a chance to learn from many local views. “Jules in ‘My Melbourne’ shows how we looked into who we are and where we belong,” he explained.
Onir agreed stressing Melbourne’s welcome of diversity. “To me, ‘My Melbourne’ captures the city’s inclusive spirit,” he said pointing out the cultural exchange and creative teamwork during the filmmaking.
With “My Melbourne” at the forefront, the 15th IFFM aims to offer an amazing celebration of films, culture, and community bringing audiences together through powerful storytelling and top-notch cinema.
