From mountains of Tashkent to the remote villages of Slovakia, compelling human stories reach the silver screen at IFFI 56

Goa Khabar : The 56th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) continues to present a diverse tapestry of global cinema, showcasing powerful narratives from across the world. Among the international films drawing attention are the Uzbek film In Pursuit of Spring and the Slovak film Flood.

At a press conference held today, the directors, producers and actors of the two films shared insights into their filmmaking journeys.

Producer of the Slovak film “Flood”, Katarina Krnacova, said the film is based on the displacement of a village for the construction of a water reservoir. Shot in the Májová region of Slovakia, nearly 80% of the cast comprises members of the Ruthenian minority community. “The film offered the Ruthenian community a rare opportunity to perform in their own language on the silver screen,” she added.

Flood had its second worldwide premiere at IFFI Goa, following its debut at a film festival in Argentina. The team is planning a special screening for communities affected by the real-life project on which the film is based.

The Uzbek film “In Pursuit of Spring” was represented at the press conference by Director Ayub Shakhobiddinov and lead actress Farina Jumaviya. Introducing the film, the director said it follows the journey of its protagonist, Rahat Shukurova, who confronts painful memories and long-buried secrets. “As the past resurfaces, Rahat must navigate through old wounds and hidden truths to seek reconciliation with herself,” he explained.

Though set during the final years of the Soviet era in Uzbekistan, the film’s themes and emotional struggles remain relevant today. Expressing his appreciation, the director said that IFFI provides filmmakers with a valuable international platform to showcase their work and build global networks. “We are happy to be part of IFFI,” he added.