Correct Answer : Toxic
The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) came to a magnificent conclusion on 28th November 2024 at the Dr. Shyama Prasad Mukherjee Indoor Stadium, Goa, marking the end of a nine-day celebration of global and Indian cinema. The closing ceremony honored cinematic excellence, promoted creative dialogue, and celebrated young and seasoned filmmakers from across the globe.
This year’s festival was unique, with a theme centred on “Young Filmmakers: The Future is Now.” It showcased over 195 films, creating a platform for budding talent while paying homage to cinematic legends.
The event was a fitting finale to the nine-day celebration of global and Indian cinema, uniting filmmakers, artistes, and cinephiles in a shared appreciation for the magic of storytelling on screen.
From the red-carpet moments to the soul-stirring performances and masterful storytelling, the closing ceremony was a star-studded affair, honouring the finest works of cinema and the artists who have left an indelible mark.
Unveiling the final chapter of this cinematic celebration, the ceremony was packed with moments and memories that will linger long in the minds of the cine-lovers.
The festival concluded with the Closing film, “Dry Season” - directed by the acclaimed Czech filmmaker Bohdan Sláma, encapsulating the story of humanity, sustainability, and generational bonds.
The closing night’s most awaited segment was the presentation of the prestigious awards, recognizing exceptional talent and storytelling.
Lithuanian film ‘Toxic’ bagged Golden Peacock for the Best Film :
* The film
Toxic bagged the most coveted Golden Peacock Award for Best Feature Film this year. Shri Pramod Sawant, Chief Minister of Goa and Shri Ashutosh Gowariker, Jury Chairperson of the International Competition presented the award.
* Lithuanian filmmaker and screenwriter Saul? Bliuvait?’s debut feature film delivers a raw and haunting coming-of-age story of friendship. The Jury praised the film for exploring adolescence and the harsh realities of growing up in an economically deprived society, with so much sensitivity and empathy.
Bogdan Muresanu honoured with Silver Peacock for Best Director :
* Recognising his outstanding direction and exquisite storytelling on screen, the award for Silver Peacock for Best Director went to Romanian writer and director Bogdan Muresanu for his film, ‘The New Year That Never Came.’
Clément Faveau bestowed with Silver Peacock Award for Best Actor (Male)
* Actor Clément Faveau was Awarded the Silver Peacock for Best Actor (Male) for his incredible and compelling performance in the French film Holy Cow, expressing the emotional ups and downs of the protagonist, while traversing from ages of innocence to maturity.
* The Jury also made a special mention to Actor Adam Bessa for his portrayal of Bilal, in the Tunisian film Who Do I Belong To; the actor was lauded for his nuanced and restrained performance in the film.
Actors Vesta Matulyt? and Ieva Rupeikait? jointly snatched Silver Peacock for Best Actor (Female) :
For their extraordinary debut performances, the Silver Peacock for Best Actor (Female) was jointly awarded to actors Vesta Matulyt? and Ieva Rupeikait? for the film ‘Toxic.’
