IMPHAL, Jan 29: The second edition of the Eikhoigi Imphal International Film Festival (EIIFF) is set to take place from February 6-9 in Imphal, the capital of Manipur. The festival is jointly organized by the Manipur State Film Development Society (MSFDS), the Manipur State Film and Television Institute (MSFTI), and Film Forum Manipur.
A total of 57 films, including 13 Manipuri films, will be showcased during the event. The festival will feature 33 international films and 16 non-fiction films, providing a diverse selection for film enthusiasts.
The Manipuri classic ‘Eshanou (The Chosen One)’ will kick off the festival as the opening film. Other notable Manipuri films such as Sanakheithel, Yairipok Thambalnu, and Chatledo Eidi will also be part of the screenings.
Festival director Sunzu Bachaspatimayum shared that the films will be shown at four different cinema halls, including one at the MSFDS.
This year, the festival will include a competition in two categories: fiction and non-fiction. In the fiction category, 11 feature films, comprising seven international films and four Indian films—including one Manipuri film—will compete for recognition. The non-fiction section will showcase 10 films, with six international entries.
Among the other films featured is a 23-minute experimental short film titled ‘Delusional Decay’. Additionally, a special segment titled ‘Remastered: The Light of Manipur Cinema’ will spotlight four Manipuri films that have been digitized as part of a national effort to preserve the country’s cinematic heritage. These films include Ishanou, Sanakeithel, Yairipok Thambalnu, and Chatledo Eidi.
Sunzu emphasized that the festival would serve as a platform to help reshape the image of Manipur and dispel some of the negative stereotypes associated with the state.
In addition to the film screenings, various other programs will be held throughout the festival, including film pitching classes, a master class on short films, a direction class, and panel discussions.
