Movies

Swedish Film 'Crossing' Receives Prestigious Award.

Swedish Film 'Crossing' Wins Prestigious ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal at 55th IFFI

The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) recently concluded in Goa, featuring a diverse selection of films from across the globe. A standout moment of the festival was the awarding of the ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal to Swedish filmmaker Levan Akin for his film Crossing. This esteemed award recognizes films that exemplify the values of peace, non-violence, and human rights. Crossing was honored for its deep exploration of these themes, earning both the medal and a certificate.
 
 
A Tribute to Cinema and Social Values
The ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal was established to honor films that not only achieve artistic excellence but also inspire ethical reflection on critical societal issues. A joint initiative by the International Council for Film, Television, and Audiovisual Communication (ICFT) and UNESCO, the award aims to promote values of tolerance, intercultural dialogue, and peace through the medium of cinema.
 
Crossing was celebrated by the jury for its outstanding cinematic craftsmanship and its thought-provoking storyline. The jury’s citation described the film as “a stunning piece of cinema about love and understanding.” This recognition underscores the film's ability to engage audiences on multiple emotional and intellectual levels, making it a deserving recipient of the award.
 
The festival showcased ten remarkable films shortlisted for the award, each reflecting different cultures and genres. What united these films was their commitment to Gandhian principles, illustrating cinema's potential to foster positive change and promote global understanding.
 
The Heart of Crossing
Crossing tells the moving tale of an elderly woman who embarks on a journey with a young Georgian man to Istanbul in search of her niece, who disappeared years ago. Played by Mzia Arabuli, the character's journey uncovers unexpected themes of gender issues and equality, making the film a poignant exploration of human connection and social justice.
 
The film masterfully blends themes of love, understanding, and generational bonds. It serves as both a personal and universal narrative, encouraging viewers to reflect on the complexities of human relationships and the significance of empathy in a divided world.
 
The Jury's Insights
The esteemed jury for the ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal included notable figures such as Isabelle Danel, Honorary President of FIPRESCI; Serge Michel, Vice President of CICT-ICFT; and Maria Cristina Iglesias, former head of UNESCO’s Cultural Sector Programme. Their diverse expertise ensured a thoughtful and balanced evaluation of the films.
 
Throughout the festival, the jury shared their insights on the selection process and the importance of films in addressing global challenges. They emphasized cinema’s power to foster cultural dialogue and enhance mutual understanding.
 
The recognition of Crossing highlights a broader commitment to films that challenge societal norms while promoting peace and equality. The jury’s deliberations underscored the transformative role of storytelling in addressing humanity's most pressing issues.
 
The Legacy of the ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal
Introduced during the 46th IFFI, the ICFT-UNESCO Gandhi Medal is more than just an accolade—it celebrates cinema's potential to inspire, educate, and unite people across cultures. The award encourages a deeper understanding of shared human values through the medium of film.
 
As the festival drew to a close, it was evident that the impact of Crossing and the other nominated films would extend far beyond the screen. These films serve as a reminder of cinema's unique ability to catalyze social change and challenge viewers to reflect on their values and beliefs.
Rene Khan

Rene Khan

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