Breaking Barriers: 55th IFFI Sets New Standards for Accessibility in Films

Goa: , 19 November 2024:  The 55^th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) proudly creates an inclusive cinematic experience, championing the theme “Sabka Manoranjan” (Entertainment for All). IFFI continues its tradition of accessible film festival, ensuring the festival remains welcoming to cinephiles of all abilities year after year. With support from key collaborators like the Inclusion Partner, State Commission for Persons with disabilities, Goa and Accessibility Partner Svayam, IFFI sets a benchmark for inclusivity in cinema.

Key Accessibility Initiatives at IFFI 55 will be as follows:

• Inclusive Opening and Closing Ceremonies: For the first time in IFFI’s history, the opening and closing ceremonies will feature live sign language interpretation, ensuring that all attendees, including those with hearing impairments can fully engage in the festival’s audio- visual treat.
• Accessible India Films Section: A major highlight of IFFI 2024, this section will screen select Indian and international films enhanced with audio descriptions and Indian Sign Language, allowing visually and hearing-impaired audiences to immerse themselves in the narratives. 55^th IFFI will also screen Indian and International films with audio descriptions supported through the app, further enhancing the inclusive screening experience. The section commences on November 22^nd with a screening of 12th Fail, featuring audio descriptions and sign language interpretation. The new chapter in accessible cinema will open with a classical dance performance in Indian Sign Language by the acclaimed artist Ms Methil Devika, symbolizing the festival’s commitment to inclusivity.
• Digital and On-Site Accessibility: 
  • Online platforms, including the festival’s website, app, and social media channels, aim to enhance user accessibility.
  • Venues are equipped with wheelchair-accessible spaces, restrooms, and parking facilities. On-site sign language interpreters will also be available during the festival.
• Masterclasses and Press Conferences

A special masterclass titled “Exhibition of Feature Films in Cinema Theatres: The Question of Accessibility“ will be conducted during IFFI 2024. Moreover, the masterclasses and press conferences will include live sign language interpretation, ensuring that key updates and discussions are accessible to all.

• Screening Schedule of Embedded Accessible Features is as follows:

• 12th Fail – November 22, 11:30 AM (Audio Description, Sign Language)

• Bartali’s Bicycle – November 24, 5:00 PM (Audio Description, Live Sign Language)

• Beyond the Court: The Indian Wheelchair Basketball Journey – November 24, 5:00 PM (Audio Description, Sign Language)

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• Stride – November 26, 11:45 AM (Audio Description, Sign Language)

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• India Votes #WorldsLargestElection – November 26, 11:45 AM (Sign Language)

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• When Opportunity Knocks the Recruiter’s Door – November 26, 11:45 AM (Audio Description, Sign Language)

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• National and International Film Screenings with audio descriptions through app features –

Now visually impaired individuals can enjoy movies to the fullest with the Moviebuff Access app developed by Qube Cinemas. Participants have to simply connect to the venue’s WiFi in order to stream descriptive audio directly to their phone.

• Swatantrya Veer Savarkar (Opening Film) – November 21, 11:00 AM
• Piano Lessons (USA) – November 21, 12:45 PM
• Gharat Ganpati – November 22, 12:45 PM
• Mahavatar Narsimha (World Premiere) – November 24, 4:30 PM
• Sam Bahadur – Directed by Meghna Gulzar, November 24, 8:00 PM
• The Rooster (Australia) – November 24, 5:15 PM
• Article 370 – November 26, 8:00 PM
• Addition (Australia) – November 27, 10:15 PM
• Empowering Partnerships

55^th IFFI’s accessibility initiatives are made possible through collaborations with leading Content Partners such as

• • India Signing Hands founded by Mr. Alok Kejriwal, is a recipient of the National Award for Empowerment of PwDs,
  • Yes, We Too Can Charitable Trust founded by National Paralympics Swimming Champion Ms. Madhavi Latha Prathigudupu.
  • Movie Buff App developed by Qube Cinema facilitates seamless audio description enabling accessible film screenings.
  • Cinedubs App developed by Dubswork Mobile Pvt Ltd Supports multilingual screenings, underscoring diversity and inclusion.
  • Billion Readers is a non-profit organization championing diversity and inclusion in cinema, promoting broader representation and accessibility.

• A Team Committed to Empathy and Inclusivity

IFFI team has undergone comprehensive sensitivity training to ensure every guest feels welcomed, understood, and valued. This preparation equips IFFI staff to provide compassionate and personalized support, fostering an inclusive and respectful environment throughout the festival.

IFFI’s commitment to inclusivity reflects the festival’s larger vision of “Sabka Manoranjan”. 55^th IFFI reaffirms its role as a global leader in creating shared cultural experiences by fostering an environment where everyone can experience the magic of cinema.