Unveiling IFFM 2025: Shoojit Sircar Talks Short Films, Jury Insights, and His Non-Negotiable Principle

Hyderabad is buzzing with excitement as the 16th Indian Film Festival of Melbourne (IFFM) kicks off from August 14 to August 25, gathering filmmakers and fans from around the globe. This year, filmmaker Shoojit Sircar joins the jury for short films, alongside Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari.

The theme for the short film competition is “Our Collective Home.” Filmmakers are encouraged to explore what home means to them—be it places, memories, or connections. With nearly 1,400 submissions from over 100 countries, the anticipation is high for the winners to be revealed on August 15 during the NAB IFFM Awards Night.

Speaking to ETV Bharat, Sircar shared insights about the festival. “It feels like a family gathering,” he said. “Even within Bollywood, we don’t get to meet like this. In Melbourne, it’s a festival that fosters camaraderie among filmmakers.”

This marks Sircar’s second year judging short films at the festival. He emphasized the cultural exchange between India and Australia. Although he finds judging a challenging task, he appreciates the variety of stories and filmmaking styles he encounters.

His journey with short films is notable—he began his career with them and still works in this format through advertising. Sircar believes that short films pack powerful narratives into just a few minutes. He stated, “They can spark social change and comment on important issues, making them vital in today’s cinema.”

He noted a trend among this year’s submissions: many films address social taboos and emotional struggles, such as single motherhood and autism. “It’s fascinating that filmmakers from Australia and India share similar concerns,” he remarked.

For aspiring filmmakers, Sircar offered advice: “With today’s technology, anyone can make a film using just a phone. Focus on your craft and storytelling.” He encourages newcomers to develop deep and impactful concepts for their films.

Judging alongside Ashwiny Iyer Tiwari is a unique experience for Sircar. He highlighted the importance of discussion and collaboration and respects her perspective as a woman director. “We openly discuss each film’s strengths,” he said.

When it comes to his criteria for judging films, Sircar emphasizes the filmmaker’s perspective as essential. “Social impact matters, but every film has its own merits,” he stated.

As a juror, Sircar understands that scrutiny comes with the role, especially regarding prestigious awards like the National Film Awards. He believes in trusting the jury’s decision and stresses the importance of its credibility.

The conversation also touches on the 71st National Film Awards, where debates about selections are common. Sircar encourages focusing on how the jury is chosen, as it plays a major role in the outcomes.

The films competing at IFFM this year reveal a diverse range of stories. Here’s a glimpse of some noteworthy entries:

• A Doll Made Up of Clay
• Babli by Night (Hindi)
• Elijah (Bengali, English)
• Adrenaline Rush: The Science of Risk (English, Hindi)
• Free as a Bird (Hindi)

As storytelling continues to evolve, festivals like IFFM provide a crucial platform for voices around the world to connect and inspire.

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