'My Melbourne' Anthology Film by Kabir Khan & Others to Open 2024 IFFM

New Delhi: The upcoming Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) will open with the premiere of ‘My Melbourne,’ an anthology film featuring short stories directed by renowned filmmakers Kabir Khan, Imtiaz Ali, Onir, and Rima Das. Scheduled from August 15 to 25, 2024, this edition of the festival will showcase the rich tapestry of Indian cinema, celebrating its diversity and cultural narratives.

‘My Melbourne’ is an Indo-Australian collaboration, backed by Vic Screen and Screen Australia. The anthology, inspired by real-life events, captures the essence of Melbourne’s multicultural landscape. It addresses themes such as race, gender, sexuality, and disability through four unique stories. The films include “Emma” by Rima Das, which highlights disability; “Jules” by Imtiaz Ali, focusing on the struggles of two displaced women; “Nandini” by Onir, which celebrates the city’s cultural diversity; and “Setara” by Kabir Khan, telling the story of an Afghan refugee’s escape and new life in Melbourne.

Rima Das emphasized her commitment to authenticity in her film, incorporating a cast that includes members of the deaf community. She expressed her hope that ‘Emma’ would foster discussions about inclusivity. Imtiaz Ali shared his positive experience working with a vibrant and diverse creative team, expressing excitement about the short film ‘Jules.’

Onir’s film ‘Nandini’ portrays Melbourne as a haven of diversity and inclusion, reflecting the city’s identity. Kabir Khan’s ‘Setara’ focuses on the triumph of the human spirit, showcasing Setara’s journey from Afghanistan to Melbourne, where she finds a new sense of belonging through cricket. The anthology aims to present a nuanced portrayal of migrant experiences, highlighting Melbourne’s role as a multicultural hub and setting the stage for a compelling opening at IFFM 2024.