Chennai International Film Festival (CIFF) was launched in the year 2003 by Indo Cine Appreciation Foundation (ICAF) to showcase the expressions of the film fraternity through films on a common platform. The festival is organized every year in December, in the middle of the month. It has greatly evolved over time and each of its editions has been marked by prominent growth in terms of popularity and gathering of film lovers. Chennai International Film Festival is committed to present unique and best films from national as well as international arena. Since its 8th edition, the film fraternity has also joined hands with ICAF to actively participate in making the event grand and enriching. The festival aims at understanding the cultures and projects of different filmmakers which helps in creating an understanding among the film cultures of different nations. It also promotes a cooperative relationship among different film fraternities.
Collaborations of Chennai International Film Festival
The event is also supported by South Indian Film Chamber of Commerce, Film Federation of India, Artists and Directors Association and Producers Council. Since the year 2008, the state government has also extended its support to the festival. The 7th edition of Chennai International Film Festival introduced the competition section for Tamil films for promoting and encouraging the Tamil filmmakers. CIFF acquired a facelift in 2009 with the active involvement of the Tamil film fraternity with the initiative and leadership of Ms. Suhasini Manirathnam, the famed South Indian actress.
Features of Chennai International Film Festival
The management team of ICAF includes professionals from different streams possessing a passion for films. Some of the senior members of the organization enlist famous names like Mr. Thangaraj (Festival Director), Mr. Srinivasan, Mr. Murali, Mr. Santhanam, Mr. Ramakrishnan, Mr. Kannan and many others. The festival is also actively supported by the members of film fraternity including Ms. Suhasini, Ms. Shylaja, Ms. Poornima, Ms. Lizzy, Mr. Manobala, Mr. Jayendra, Ms. Rohini, Ms. Revathy, Mr.Mohan, Mr. Sarathkumar etc. In addition to print media, the grandeur of the festival can be well observed through the social networking sites, web, television and radio. The festival features splendid opening and closing ceremonies, curtain-raiser press meets, gala cultural shows, exclusive `Red Carpet` evening screenings and Chennai Film Forum Panel Discussions which provides and enriching experience to the film lovers. Film personalities from regional, national and international arena grace the event and add substantial glamour and significance to the festival. Chennai International Film Festival offers a phenomenal experience of witnessing the coexistence of creativity and versatility.
Awards at Chennai International Film Festival
Chennai International Film Festival confers several awards for encouraging and promoting the contribution and exceptional talent of film personalities. These awards include Best film in Tamil, Second Best film, Special Jury Award for individual excellence, Online Film buff Award and Amitabh Bachchan Youth Icon Award (since 2013)