"Buddha Collapsed Out Shame" to kick off IFFK

Thiruvananthapuram, Dec 6 (UNI) The glittering 12th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) will kick off here tomorrow with the screening of Hena Makmalbaf's ''Buddha Collapsed Out of Shame.'' Renowned Tamil actor Kamal Hassan will light the traditional lamp in the presence of world famous Chilean film makar Miguel Littn at the Nisagandhi Auditorium, marking the eight-day-long film extravaganza.

Followed by a scintilating cultural event, ''Rythm of Kerala'' by Folklore Academy, 12 eminent film personalities, who had contributed to the growth of Malayalam cinema in the 1960s, would be honoured at the function.

As many as 231 films from over 54 countries will be screened in the festival, in which more than 7,000 delegates from across the world are expected to participate.

It has an added feature as for the first time ever in the 12 year history of the festival, five major film production cum distribution companies will be at the IFFK to explore trade and commercial possibilities.

A five-member jury with Iranian director Jafar Fanahi as its Chairman and famous African actress and director Naky Sy Savene, Polish play-wright Agneizka Holland, Indian actor, producer Naseeruddin Shah and Cuban film academy director Rigoberto Lopez as members would select the winning film in the festival.

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