Actor Abhay Deol has joined the advisory board of the upcoming Bandra Film Festival. The event is being organized by online distribution company FilmKaravan in collaboration with YouTube as part of an effort to showcase films made by prolific filmmakers in the past as well as emerging talent and innovative creators.
Deol has produced the film What are the Odds? on Netflix along with FilmKaravan.
Speaking about the festival, the actor said, "It has always been difficult for independent films and documentaries to reach the masses, even though things have evolved now in the content space with so many digital and OTT players entering the market. I think the Bandra Film Festival will be a fabulous platform for independent filmmakers to showcase their work and reach out to a wide audience base. I am happy to be on board with FilmKaravan, who I believe has been pushing the envelope with a wide range of narratives. Their approach towards backing a good story and striving for inclusiveness is commendable. As for me, I have in my own way too tried backing the underdogs and the unconventional."
The film festival will screen films in three major categories. Undiscovered Gems will showcase films that were unnoticed or did not receive popular acclaim. Off the Beaten Path will include films that are "experimental, unapologetic and non-conforming'' in their genre and styles. The third category, New Discoveries, will include fresh concepts, filmmakers and 'coming-of-age' titles according to the statement.
Speaking of the project, Deol added, "BFF is striving towards an eco-system that enables growth not just in spirit but also in form. The platform is designed to bring together a wide array of subjects from around the world and give an opportunity to filmmakers to showcase their work but it will also work closely with Milaap to orchestrate a fundraiser, extending financial support to the makers. This to my mind is literally walking the talk and never explored before, at least in the sub-continent."
Film submissions are open currently for all formats, including features, documentaries, shorts and animation, from all parts of India and the world. Filmmakers can contact the organizers of the festival through its official website.