Cinema circle: Film festivals to watch out for this weekend

With a number of film festivals set to kick-start in the city this month, we compile a round-up of what movie buffs should look out for

As film enthusiasts look forward to the The Mumbai Film Festival that offers a diverse range of cinematic content from around the world, there are a few other movie festivals as well that are set to commence in the city this month. Here’s a dekko.



This weekend, the film club that focuses on short films will screen the likes of The Tiger Boy, Bayano and Curfew, among others. "Since we did not have a theme for the film festival, we have selected an assortment of the finest movies made in the last couple of years for the screenings," says Cyrus Dastur, founder of Shamiana.



Where: The Lil Flea, Bandra Reclamation

Recommended movie: Bayano (October 4, at 3 pm )

Synopsis: The film tells the story of two friends shot over a period of two decades.



Nave Valan (October 4 to 8)

Nave Valan, a Marathi film festival is back with its sixth edition and will offer an eclectic mix of genres from the Marathi film industry. "In 2009, when we started the festival, there was a renaissance in Marathi cinema. Young film-makers were making exceptional movies despite having low budgets. The fact that these films were made on topics that were rooted deeply in real life made the festival relevant," says Deepa Gehlot, head, programming for theatre and film, NCPA.

Where: NCPA, Nariman Point

Recommended movie: Ajoba (October 4, at 6 pm)

Synopsis: The film is about a leopard, who falls in a well near Junnar and is rescued by forest officials.



IFA Film Festival (October 9 to 11)

The Indian Foundation for the Arts (IFA) is organising a film festival in collaboration with the Somaiya Center for Lifelong Learning, which aims to showcase documentaries made by aspiring directors. From capturing the picturesque beauty of Ladakh to documenting the mobile culture of Assam, this film festival promises to feature short films on interesting themes. "The films that we are showcasing touch upon different topics, weaved in fascinating imagery," says Supriya Rai, in-charge, Somaiya Center.

Where: Somaiya Centre, Fort

Recommended move: The Other Song (October 11, at 5.30 pm)

Synopsis: It documents the life of courtesans, taking note of their struggles and problems.