How Is the International Film Festival of Kerala Celebrating Its 30th Edition with Global Cinema and Special Tributes?

The International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) is marking its 30th edition in grand style — with a sweeping showcase of global cinema and several heartfelt tributes.

First and foremost: IFFK 2025 will screen over 200 films from nearly 70 countries; about 30 more than previous editions; offering a broader, richer palette of global cinema than ever before.

The line-up of the Film Festival includes sections such as International Competition, World Cinema, Indian Cinema Now, and Malayalam Cinema Today, allowing audiences to experience films from Asia, Africa, Latin America, and beyond. The International Competition of the IFFK ius going to feature 14 Films, 12 Films will be showcased in The Malayalam Cinema Today section and seven Films are included in the Indian Cinema Now section. Over 60 Films will be screened in the World Cinema section and eight Films in Kaleidoscope section. According to a press release Films will also be featured in the Female Focus, Midnight Cinema, and Restored Classics section.

The prestigious Spirit of Cinema Award will this year go to Canadian filmmaker Kelly Fyffe‑Marshall — known for bold, socially conscious work addressing racial injustice. The honour includes a cash prize of ₹5 lakh, a statuette, and a citation. The Film Festival will also mark the centenary of legendary Filmmaker Ritwik Ghatak — performing a special tribute through retrospectives and curated screenings.

Additionally, there’s a special focus on Vietnamese cinema under the “Country Focus” segment — part of IFFK’s commitment to global film cultures.

The screenings will span 16 theatres (including an added venue for 2025) in the host city Thiruvananthapuram from December 12 to 19, 2025.

In short: the 30th IFFK promises a compelling blend of cinematic diversity and thoughtful tributes — reaffirming its reputation as a global crossroads for art-house, regional, and socially relevant cinema.