Kantara, 2018, Ponniyin Selvan II and more: South Indian Cinema make a splash at Goa’s IFFI

Hyderabad: Every year, like clockwork, the International Film Festival of India in Goa unfolds towards the end of November, specifically from November 20 to November 28. This cinematic extravaganza is not just an occasion to savour a plethora of global films but also an opportunity to showcase the richness and diversity of our very own regional cinema to a wider, appreciative audience.

At this year’s 54th IFFI, the spotlight firmly shines on South Indian cinema, with a captivating lineup featuring some of the most acclaimed and celebrated films from the Tamil, Malayalam, and Kannada industries. These cinematic gems promise to captivate hearts and minds, offering a glimpse into the cultural richness and storytelling prowess of South India.

Kantara – Rishab Shetty

Rishab Shetty’s mystical action thriller, Kantara, took the nation by storm in the latter half of 2022. This captivating film tells the story of a Kambala champion who clashes with a forest officer, with the art form of Bhoota Kola playing a significant role. Kantara has earned accolades for its aesthetics and stellar performances.

2018 – Jude Anthany Joseph

2018 is a Malayalam survival drama film that revolves around the devastating 2018 Kerala floods. With an ensemble cast featuring Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali, Aparna Balamurali, and more, this film has been chosen as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category at the 96th Academy Awards.

Ponniyin Selvan II – Mani Ratnam

The second part of Mani Ratnam’s magnum opus, Ponniyin Selvan II, graces the Indian Panorama category. This historical action drama boasts an ensemble cast that includes Chiyaan Vikram, Jayam Ravi, Karthi, Aishwarya Rai Bachchan, and many others and has garnered widespread acclaim from both fans and critics.

Viduthalai Part 1 – Vetrimaaran

Vetrimaaran’s latest offering, Viduthalai, was a hit with audiences and critics alike. This period crime thriller features Soori in a role breaking away from his comedic image, alongside prominent names like Vijay Sethupathi and Gautham Vasudev Menon.

Nna Thaan Case Kodu – Ratheesh Balakrishnan Poduval

The Malayalam political satire Nna Thaan Case Kodu (Sue Me) stars Kunchacko Boban and Gayathrie Shankar in lead roles and showcases exceptional performances by the ensemble cast. The film has garnered acclaim, particularly for its writing.

In addition to these noteworthy films, the Indian Panorama category at the 54th IFFI also features other regional gems from South India, including titles like Aattam, Iratta, Kaathal, Malikappuram, and Pookkaalam in Malayalam, Kaadhal Enbathu Pothu Udamai and Neela Nira Sooriyan in Tamil, as well as Aaraariraaro in Kannada. South Indian cinema, with its rich tapestry of storytelling and diverse genres, promises to be a highlight of this year’s festival.