The International Film Festival of India (IFFI), recognized as one of the world's foremost 'International Competition Feature Film Festivals' by the International Federation of Film Producers' Association (FIAPF), is set to honour Hollywood legend Michael Douglas with the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award (SRLTA) for Excellence in World Cinema. The announcement was made by Prithul Kumar, Managing Director of NFDC and Joint Secretary Films at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, during the Curtain Raiser Press Conference for the 54th International Film Festival of India in Panaji.
In the realm of international film festivals, IFFI stands among the elite group of 14 globally acclaimed events accredited by FIAPF, a prestigious designation shared with festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice.
Michael Douglas, an iconic figure in world cinema with an illustrious career spanning five decades, will be present at IFFI to accept the esteemed SRLTA, accompanied by his acclaimed actress wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones. Known for his era-defining roles and enduring cultural impact, Douglas has contributed significantly to the film industry through his iconic performances and prolific work as a producer.
The legendary actor, renowned for portraying memorable American anti-heroes, has been honoured with two Academy Awards, five Golden Globe Awards, and a Primetime Emmy Award. His influential roles in films like Wall Street, Fatal Attraction, and The American President have left an indelible mark on cinema.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Michael Douglas has been a dedicated public servant, activist, and philanthropist. Appointed as a Messenger of Peace by former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan in 1998, Douglas has been a staunch advocate for disarmament issues, including nuclear non-proliferation and efforts to halt the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons.
The Hollywood veteran's commitment to global peace and security extends to his support for organizations dedicated to disarmament and non-proliferation, such as the Ploughshares Fund and the Nuclear Threat Initiative.
As IFFI celebrates its 54th edition, the presence of Michael Douglas adds a new dimension to the festival, recognizing and honouring a cinematic luminary whose impact reaches far beyond the silver screen. His upcoming portrayal of Benjamin Franklin in an upcoming limited series further cements his status as a multifaceted artist committed to the art of diplomacy and storytelling. The Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award at IFFI is a fitting tribute to Michael Douglas's outstanding contributions to world cinema and his unwavering dedication to global causes.