• Legendary director Mr. K.S. Ravikumar conducts a masterclass on filmmaking.
• The festival features engaging movies from foreign and Indian filmmakers, including Robert Eugen Popa, Bogdan Muresan, Chimbu Devan, Sara, Era Saravanan, and Pari Elavazhagan.
17th March 2025, Chennai: Hindustan Institute of Technology and Science (HITS) is currently hosting the Dr. Elizabeth Verghese International Film Festival, organized by the Department of Visual Communication. The festival aims to provide students with hands-on experience in filmmaking while fostering critical thinking. Films addressing various cultural themes are being screened, offering insights into composition, color, design, production, and narrative strategies. By showcasing the work of filmmakers from three continents, the event is fostering lively discussions and meaningful connections, transforming the HITS campus into a vibrant center for global cinema.
The festival highlights film as a communication medium and features works by international and Indian filmmakers, including Veni, Vedi, Fugi, Last Tango in Consta, and The New Year by Robert Eugen Popa and Bogdan Muresan; Chimbu Devan’s moving drama Boat; Sara’s environmental documentary Cauvery: River of Life; Era Saravanan’s boundary-pushing Nandan; and Pari Elavazhagan’s thought-provoking Jama.
Dr. Anand Jacob Verghese, Chancellor of HITS , expresses his satisfaction with the festival’s growing international reputation: “Cinema transcends boundaries in ways few other art forms can. This year’s festival demonstrates how stories from different corners of the world resonate with audiences regardless of cultural backgrounds. We’re proud to provide a platform where filmmakers can share their unique visions and perspectives.”
Dr. Ashok George Verghese, Pro-Chancellor, HITS adds”The enthusiastic response from both filmmakers and audiences confirms our belief in cinema’s power to foster understanding and appreciation across cultures.”
A key highlight of the festival is a masterclass on filmmaking by the legendary director-actor K.S. Ravikumar, who shares insights from his decades-long career across multiple Indian film industries. Reflecting on the experience, he remarks, “These young filmmakers pose questions that make me view my own work from a fresh perspective. This exchange of ideas across generations is what makes festivals like these invaluable to the future of cinema.”
Romanian director Robert Eugen Popa, whose films are receiving significant acclaim during the festival, comments, “Bringing my European stories to Indian audiences has been a remarkable experience. The thoughtful reception and analysis of my work demonstrate that authentic storytelling resonates universally.”
Soul-stirring documentaries like Cauvery: River of Life, evocative films like Nandan, the thought-provoking Boat, and gripping narratives like Jama are currently being screened. Beyond screenings, the festival includes dynamic sessions and lively panel discussions where industry veterans and emerging voices debate cinema’s future in the streaming era. Masterclasses reveal technical innovations, and networking events spark diverse perspectives and innovative storytelling. Participants are also getting an opportunity to experience the transformative power of cutting-edge VFX and digital innovations in storytelling.
In keeping with the festival’s commitment to nurturing new talent, an exclusive short film competition is being conducted, providing a platform for emerging filmmakers to showcase their work and connect with established industry professionals.
