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The current edition of the International Film Festival of India (IFFI) in Goa boasts the highest number of venues and screens in its 20-year history. In 2004, there were only five screens available, four located at INOX and one at Kala Academy. Over the years, Porvorim was introduced, while Margao has had an inconsistent presence, and Ponda is making its inaugural appearance this year. Unfortunately, Kala Academy, the largest theatre that once offered a solution for those unable to secure tickets, still lacks adequate cinema sound and projection facilities. The reasons for it still remain unknown and your guess is as good as mine. The distances between the venues are quite significant, making travel between them a challenge. While Porvorim is relatively close to the main venue in Panaji, the ongoing poorly managed construction work has resulted in travel times that can exceed those of a flight from Goa to Mumbai, making the journey from Porvorim to Panaji or vice versa quite cumbersome. The festival commenced on Friday morning with the screening of the German/Turkish film, ‘Elbow’. I was pleasantly surprised by the turnout for a morning screening in Porvorim, which included a notable number of delegates from outside the state. This coming-of-age narrative is adapted from a popular award-winning novel, centring on a 17-year-old girl approaching her 18th birthday. Set against the backdrops of Berlin and Istanbul, the film sheds light on the challenges faced by the migrant community. The protagonist, Hazal, aspires for a better life that remains elusive. She seeks to forge her own path but finds opportunities, including employment, scarce. A tragic incident further complicates her circumstances, leading to a downward spiral. The film, with a runtime of under 90 minutes, presents a succinct narrative centred around a protagonist who is far from perfect. She has numerous flaws, disregards the counsel of her elders, and bears responsibility for the tragic event. Even though I was not exactly rooting for her for what she was and she does, the director skillfully evokes empathy for individuals like her, who are ensnared by the consequences of their own decisions. Entering a film without preconceived notions can often lead to the discovery of unexpected gems. ‘Red Path’, directed by Lotfi Achour and playing in the international competition, proved to be one such gem. The film opens with breathtaking visuals set in Tunisia, where two young boys are herding goats in the mountains. As one admires the picturesque landscape and the bond between the boys, an unforeseen tragedy unfolds. The younger boy (played exceptionally by Ali Hleli) is impacted the most and must return to the village to convey the devastating news. The film explores societal and political tensions, seamlessly woven into this exceptionally crafted narrative. Notably, it is inspired by a true story, a reality that is difficult to accept, yet it serves as a reminder that truth is still stranger than fiction.