Watching films is a fun experience irrespective of age. In the world of cinema, the focus is gradually moving towards children and with Goa’s first film festival focusing on children, Bulbul Children’s International Film Festival (BCIFF), is currently underway till January 13 at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao. Named after Goa’s state bird, the Bulbul, the festival is dedicated to showcasing the finest in children’s cinema from around the world. Besides screening of films and short films, children will be exposed to new technology and the visual wonders in the form of VFX, 2D and 3D animations on film.
The idea for the festival was conceptualised by Antarang Productions, headed by two festival directors, Bipin Khedekar and Siddhesh Naik. A Margao-based film production house, Antarang Productions has produced award winning films, TVCs for over a decade. Their idea was further supported by the Department of Information & Publicity, Goa Government to inspire and motivate Goan children.
Bulbul Children’s International Film Festival (BCIFF) is open to children and adults too. The festival is set to showcase a diverse selection of 55 films, including 12 competition films, 18 feature-length special screenings, and 25 short films encompassing both competition and non-competition categories.
Entry to the Bulbul Children’s International Film Festival is absolutely free for everyone. However, for attendees above 18 years old who wish to watch films, there’s a nominal one-time registration fee of Rs 200 to enjoy all five days of the festival. With three screens at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao, children can simply walk in on first come first serve basis and enjoy films. The films are also free for school teachers and principals. There are no ticket bookings and it is all available on first come first serve basis.
The festival will feature a digital mobile planetarium and an astronomical telescope by ‘Taare Zameen Par’, allowing attendees to explore the wonders of the universe. For those looking for hands-on experiences, there’s a game zone, creative minds can indulge in workshops on drone making, green screen techniques, mandala art, quilling, and even coconut leaves craft. The festival is not just about watching films; it’s an opportunity to dive into the realms of creativity and innovation.
On January 10, a workshop on ‘Design A Drone’ will be conducted by Vibhav Prabhudessai. Vibhav will highlight hands on drone building, basic drone working, flight demos and drone simulator through the workshop at Ravindra Bhavan, Margao from 12 pm to 1.30 pm. The workshop is ideal for children in the age group of 10-15 years who will explore the basics of drone design and functionality.
The day will include a ‘Music and Animation Workshop’ by Narayan Parasuram and Shilpa Ranade at 6.30 pm at the Black Box, Ravindra Bhavan, Margao.
On January 11, a workshop on ‘Healthy Parenting: Gadgets and Their Impact on Child Development’ will be conducted by Dr Rajendra Bhandankar Shrinivas Bhide and Vinod Deshpande at 10 am.
On January 12 at 2.30 pm, a masterclass, ‘Dare a Dream: A Step By Step Guide To Making Your First Film’ will be conducted by Amit Masurkar. Amit directed ‘Newton’, India’s Oscar entry in 2017. He continued his success with the 2021 film ‘Sherni,’ showcasing his skill in storytelling and social commentary.
A panel discussion on ‘Importance of Children’s Film Festivals’ will also be held on January 12 at 4.30 pm.
The concluding day of the festival will have the final workshop, ‘Green Portal’ by Advait Kudchadkar will be held from 9 am to 10.30 am which will feature an intro to green screen chroma key, travel through portals, creating a clone army and learning how green screen chroma key works in the movies. This workshop will be ideal for kids aged 10-15 years. The workshop will be held from 9 am to 10.30 am.