Srinagar, Sep 10: The Preview Committee of the International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) has praised the diversity and emotional depth of films received for the festival, saying cinema has the potential to connect people across cultures and geographical boundaries.
The committee members said 1,184 films were received for screening, making the selection process demanding and requiring detailed evaluation and deliberations.
The members said the films presented different stories, perspectives and forms of artistic expression, making it difficult to compare one work with another.
The selection process involved four rounds of deliberations, during which the committee discussed and evaluated the films in detail.
The committee members said human emotions and the ability of a story to establish a connection with audiences were among the key factors considered during the selection process.
They also highlighted the importance of films reflecting culture, local experiences and authentic stories, saying such elements can add depth and originality to cinematic works.
The committee expressed confidence that IFFJK would encourage filmmakers to return to Jammu and Kashmir to explore its landscapes, culture, people and stories.
The committee members said Jammu and Kashmir has the potential to emerge as a major filmmaking destination, with opportunities for filmmakers to work with local talent and incorporate the region's cultural and social elements into their projects.
The members also stressed the role of the younger generation in the future of the region's film industry, saying opportunities to learn, create and work alongside experienced filmmakers could help develop local cinematic talent.
"Strong storytelling, innovative ideas and genuine human emotions are what ultimately create a lasting connection with audiences," the committee members said.
The committee expressed hope that filmmakers from Jammu and Kashmir would increasingly participate in national and international cinema and that initiatives around IFFJK would contribute to developing an ecosystem for filmmakers, artists, technicians and other professionals.
"We will come back again and again to make films in Kashmir," the committee members said, referring to the region's filmmaking potential.
The members said the combination of natural landscapes, cultural diversity, local talent and stories gives Kashmir a distinct setting for filmmakers.
The 4-day IFFJK concluded on Thursday evening.