Thiruvananthapuram: "We can see a lot of young men and women coming here for the festival. In previous years, young ones didn't seem so dedicated in watching films. But now that has changed," director Kamal told Onmanorama in an exclusive interview.
"IFFK has become young as more young audience are here. It's a positive sign," Kamal said. "I have been a regular viewer of IFFK for the past couple of years. I've seen many youngsters and I feel good to see such big participation from them".
The 20th edition of International Film Festival of Kerala has broken the record for public participation as the number of delegates who registered crossed the 12,000 mark. "Each year around 1000 to 2000 new delegates are coming. It's a good thing," the director pointed out.
"Now, IFFK is the second biggest film festival in Asia, as per the number of delegates. Soon it will become the biggest in Asia," he added.
Selection of films
Kamal, who was a selection committee member, said the organisers have done a 'good job' by taking efforts to bring more good films and theatres for the smooth conduct of the event.
"People expect to see good films every year. This time we have many good films. So far we have received good response from audience regarding the selection of films," he said.
"This year we have a number of new sections such as 3D films, Based on True Story and Women Power."
However, Kamal said the inclusion of some Hollywood-like movies in the 3D and Based on True Story sections are a concern.
"Some of these movies have commercial elements in it. Even the opening movie Wolf Totem was a thriller with all the ingredients of a Hollywood film. I saw movie a Norwegian movie - The Wave. It was a thriller shot in Hollywood style. This makes us ask weather we are taking the festival light," he stressed.
"I've already watched all the competition films. The 10 international films were chosen from 135 entries. These are good films."