We’ve already told you about VALLEY OF SAINTS- the film we’re proudly presenting THIS FRIDAY  at the LA Asian Pacific Fest.

Now here’s your chance to win FREE TICKETS to the screening at the DGA!

To Win- Interact with us!: Just re-share, like, comment on our post, tag IFFLA & LAAPFF, or re-tweet our tweet ! We’ll choose 5  lucky winners to receive tickets for themselves and a guest.

$10 tickets w/ discount code LBC12: You can purchase tickets online  and enter our partner code to get in for the student/senior price!

More details about the screening:

7:30pm- Friday, May 11th at the Director’s Guild-  IFFLA is proud to co-present the Los Angeles Premiere of VALLEY OF SAINTS, produced by our 2012 Shorts Juror Nicholas Bruckman at the Visual Communications LA Asian Pacific Film Fest.

“Valley of the Saints” follows a Kashmiri boatman as he attempts to escape the troubles of his home. He strikes up an unlikely romance with a mysterious scientist and is faced with the choice of leaving everything he knows for a new life, or staying back and rebuilding his community. More info here

A still from the film.

7:30pm- Friday, May 11th-  IFFLA is proud to co-present the Los Angeles Premiere of VALLEY OF SAINTS, produced by our 2012 Shorts Juror Nicholas Bruckman at the Visual Communications LA Asian Pacific Film Fest.

“Valley of the Saints” follows a Kashmiri boatman as he attempts to escape the troubles of his home. He strikes up an unlikely romance with a mysterious scientist and is faced with the choice of leaving everything he knows for a new life, or staying back and rebuilding his community.

From LAAPFF:

Bruckman on location in Kashmir

Enlightening and filled with visual splendor, VALLEY OF SAINTS is a dynamic, yet sensitive film about finding one’s life path in a changing world. These changes occur because of political and ecological shifts, but in the end, life goes on.  Syeed expertly crafts two different worlds in his film. Life on shore is reality, while life on the lake is almost fantastical, a sanctuary away from the chains of law, greed, commerce, property and other human vices. But real life does creep into the fantasy world, and that is Asifa’s science. Director Syeed crafts a story that moves like the ebb and flow of the tides. Reminiscent of films by renowned Kerala-based director and cinematographer Shaji Karun (his award-winning 1989 breakthrough PIRAVI in particular), VALLEY OF SAINTS offers a sharply-drawn depiction of rural village life in India that is distinct from director Karun’s films, which primarily dealt with life in Kerala and the southern regions of India.

To Purchase Tickets or learn more about the film

GANGS OF WASSEYPUR

Coming up at Cannes: A new level of visibility for Indian films! IFFLA would like to congratulate the team of Indian films hitting the prestigious film festival this year. IFFLA friend and alum Anurag Kashyap hits Cannes with 2 films under the Anurag Kashyap Films banner: his latest directing work GANGS OF WASSEYPUR, Vasan Bala’s directorial debut, PEDDLERS,  which he produced, and Ashim Ahluwalia’s MISS LOVELY.

MISS LOVELY

GANGS has been selected for the Directors’ Fortnight portion of the festival, while PEDDLERS has been picked up for Cannes Critics Week. IFFLA alum actors Manoj Bajpayee and Nawazuddin Siddiqui star in GANGS OF WASSEYPUR, a story retelling the tale of a family feud. Siddiqui, just starting up his banner year, also features in Ahluwalia’s MISS LOVELY, which focuses on two brothers as they produce B-grade films in 1980s Mumbai. PEDDLERS is directed by Vassan Bala, who assisted Anurag on DEV.D and features rising stars Gulshan Deviah and Kriti Malhotra (DOBHI GHAT) as well as Nishikant Kamat, director of IFFLA 2006 award winner DOMBIVALI FAST director-turned-actor Nishikant Kamat.

PEDDLERS

We are so proud to see so much of our in-house IFFLA talent reach the heights of the industry.  IFFLA has been the platform where such emerging talent was recognized before India and the rest of the world took notice. We wish the best of luck to these films, the filmmakers, and the rising influence of the new wave of Indian cinema.

On to Cannes!

We had previously incorrectly indicated MERA NAAM JOKER at LACMA to be screening last Saturday. It is in fact screening this weekend at 11:30AM. Advance reservations recommended, visit the LACMA website for info. 

IFFLA co-presents, along with LACMA’s Southern Asian Art Council a screening of Raj Kapoor’s iconic MERA NAAM JOKER. For fans of this year’s IFFLA selection WATCH INDIAN CIRCUS, JOKER is a perfect companion piece- a ’60s Bollywood musical set against the backdrop of a circus. A project six years in the making, the film echoes shades of Chaplin and Fellini. Written, directed by, and starring Bolly icon Kapoor, this is one for both Hindi cinema aficionados and newbies alike! More information on LACMA’s website

Screens from a 35mm print!

View the Hindi language promo (film will be screened w/English subs):

Here are some places you can catch IFFLA presented events elsewhere in LA this weekend!

Anoushka Shankar- Free for Patron Pass Holders

Get even more out of your fest experience by joining our Patron Program and getting access to exclusive Patron Perks. This time around, we’re partnering with Luckman Arts to bring our Patron Pass-holders a special VIP experience of world-renowned musician Anoushka Shankar’s Los Angeles concert on April 21st. Tickets still available, though the event is FREE for IFFLA Patrons. You can join the Patron Program any time of year, and still reap full festival benefits within the next calendar year. So join now! More about Patron Pass

Free @ LACMA: Mera Naam Joker

IFFLA co-presents, along with LACMA’s Southern Asian Art Council a screening of Raj Kapoor’s iconic MERA NAAM JOKER. For fans of this year’s IFFLA selection WATCH INDIAN CIRCUS, JOKER is a perfect companion piece- a ’60s Bollywood musical set against the backdrop of a circus. A project six years in the making, the film echoes shades of Chaplin and Fellini. Written, directed by, and starring Bolly icon Kapoor, this is one for both Hindi cinema aficionados and newbies alike! More information on LACMA’s website

View the Hindi language promo (film will be screened w/English subs):

WORLD PREMIERE

Who Should Watch: Lovers of love, quirky nerds, online dating, massive desi weddings, and understated internet romance (or lack thereof).

The Breakdown:

GREAT INDIAN MARRIAGE BAZAAR

Director: Ruchika Muchhala 
Cast: Ruchika Muchhala
Language: Hindi, English (English subs)

LOVE HACKING

Director: Jenni Nelson
Language: English

Quick Fact #1 This screening is your documentary two-fer. Short doc LOVE HACKING began as a Kickstarter project, and chronicles the world’s most adorable Mormon robot-building nerd, (yes you read that right), meets the love of his life0 half way across the world. What enfolds is the cutest net romance this side of a Skype conversation.

Quick Fact #2 In GREAT INDIAN MARRIAGE BAZAAR, filmmaker Ruchika chronicles her own journey towards marriage alongside other young women, delving into the wild and wooly world of the modern Indian marriage. From the traditional middle class family to the working woman, Ruchika explores what courtship and marriage even means to different classes of people.

Quick Fact # 3 The sheer concept of “Marriage Bazaar” is unique to India.  At the intersection of tradition and modernity of the world’s most married society- Ruchika focuses on the intersection of patriarchy, technology, and even the importance of cosmetic appearance, as her own relatives way in on the action side by side.

Quick Fact#4 The short LOVE HACKING is a Kickstarter project gone good- and its no wonder. Jenni Nelson’s quirky project follows an unlikely yet adorable couple. A geeky Mormon engineer finds the love of his life, half way across the world in Nepal.

Presenting Organization TwoMangoes.com A much needed facelift to the world of online dating for South Asians across the globe! With a unique, fun, cool and comfortable spin on things (and they don’t ask for your skin color!) TwoMangoes.com connects thousands of young South Asian singles, just like you. Cause matrimonial sites just don’t cut it anymore!

Tickets are $14

Purchase at Brown Tickets

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First Screening: April 12 at 6:30pm

Second Screening: Saturday, April 15 at 1:00pm

Who Should Watch: Lovers of language and gibberish alike, stories about strangers and modernity clashing with tradition.

What’s it all about?: Films so good, we had to split ‘em in two parts and show them twice! That’s right- each year our two shorts programs highlight the rising stars and diverse voices in Indian cinema, ranging in topic, style, and genre. This entry walks you through Shorts Program #2.

AFTERNOON (DO PAHAR)
Los Angeles Premiere
When abused and elderly Sudha forms an unlikely bond with a hitman one afternoon, she is brought to ask the ultimate question.
Hindi with English Subtitles

SAFE (MEHFUZ)
US Premiere
A solitary undertaker walks between the world of life and death when he becomes transfixed by a strange woman.
Hindi with English Subtitles

GINGER (ADRAK)
US Premiere
Through his lens, two worlds merge as a photographer is inexplicably drawn to a stranger.
Hindi with English Subtitles

DANCE OF GANESHA (NAACH GANESH)
US Premiere
Modernity and tradition clash when a tribal dancer’s daily burdens of family and survival conflict with the important legacy he carries.
No Dialogue

PRAKATA HET YAD
US Premiere
A ‘vagabond’ family sets up a home in a public park defying all conventions in this absurd and playful tale of Indian society’s modern psychosis told completely in Gibberish.

Launched in 1998, presenting organization Hollywood Shorts is an industry screening series & microcinema featuring short film and animation from filmmakers all over the world.

All tickets for regular screenings are $14

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First Screening

Second Screening

Purchase at Brown Paper Tickets:

First Screening

Second Screening

Who Should Watch: Dreamers the world over, Lovers of spiritual journeys and the centering effect of faith, fans of lush contemplative films that are Oscar-worthy.

The Breakdown:

Director: Salim Ahamed
Cast: Salim Kumar, Zarina Wahab, Venu Nedumudi
Plot: After a lifetime of saving, an elderly couple are finally ready to realize their lifelong dream: to go on the Hajj to Mecca.
Language: Malayalam (w/English Subs)

Quick Fact #1 This film was India’s official entry into the Oscars this year. Exquisitely shot in the lush state of Kerala, the film is a visual feast as it transports viewers to a village it seems time has forgotten. Critically acclaimed worldwide, it resonates with anyone who has dreamed, and attempted to make that dream a reality.

Quick Fact #2 ABU follows the titular character and his wife Aisia, a Muslim couple living in Kerala, as they come to terms with the slowing down of their lives and attempt to embark on the  Hajj- a once-in-a-lifetime religious pilgrimage to Mecca. A journey they have been saving for their entire lives.

Quick Fact #3  A testament to unwavering determination, ABU chronicles a series of obstacles that stand in the couple’s way, as neighbors wonder how they will manage to do it. From procuring luggage to arranging for passports, each hurdle seems to take them farther from their goal.

Quick Fact #4  In its review of the film, The Hollywood Reporter  said ABU’s director “struck gold” with the film, especially in the realm of its depictions of how globalization clashes with village life.

 Presented by Muslim Public Affairs Council (MPAC)  Since 1988, MPAC has worked diligently to promote a vibrant American Muslim community and enrich American society through exemplifying the Islamic values of Mercy, Justice, Peace, Human Dignity, Freedom, and Equality for all. Over the years, MPAC has built a reputation as a consistent and reliable resource for government and media, and is trusted by American Muslims as an authentic, experienced voice.

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Check out this Rhythm Village diary by artist Tasneem, who will be DJ’ing on April 14th.

FULL RHYTHM VILLAGE SCHEDULE AND PARTY DETAILS HERE

“

As Spring has Sprung, It is once again time for Indian Film Festival Los Angeles.
One of my favorite events of the year that focuses on South Asian Arts and Culture,
IFFLA has always meant a time for me when many of the young South Asian creative
minds of LA and those from around the globe can come together in a space to support
one another and connect. 2011 brought me much joy as some of my songs were featured
in Geeta Malik’s brilliant film Troublemaker. How wonderful it was to be able to be a
part of the magic that is Troublemaker the movie. How my music ended up in the film is
a sweet testimony to IFFLA itself. I actually auditioned for Troublemaker and had met
Geeta then. I really connected with the script and the story. I didn’t end up getting cast
but ran into her that year at IFFLA when I was hosting and performing a slot at Rhythm
Village. I handed off a CD to her of some of my new music and the rest is history. A
year later we celebrated the debut of her film at IFFLA with a screening and an intimate
acoustic performance of some of my songs in the film right there on the balcony at
Arclight. So magical.

This year IFFLA draws near and I am super excited to be a part of the 10 year
anniversary of the Indian Film Festival Los Angeles. I have been a part of the musical
component of IFFLA since 2009. Having met Sammy and Anchal Chand of Rukus
avenue at Artwallah a few years before I’ve had a connection to South Asian Diaspora
Culture and Community here in LA for quite some time. Whether performing Dj’ing or
just supporting the actors, filmmakers, and performances I can always be seen and heard
at IFFLA Now, here in 2012 as the 10th anniversary approaches I can safely call that
space home. I’ll de Dj’ing during the day on Saturday April the 14th and sharing a couple
of new songs on the balcony at Arclight that same evening. Come hang.

xO

Tasneem  

“

www.twitter.com/iamtasneem
www.facebook.com/iamtasneem

UDAAN: Friday, Thursday, April 12th,  9:15pm

BLACK FRIDAY: Friday, April 13th 6:30pm

FAN FAVORITES HITTING LA ONCE AGAIN!!

RETROSPECTIVES- You voted, we listened. 3 fan favorites from the past decade of award winners hit the ArcLight. PLUS each of these films are absolutely FREE for film students with valid I.D. when presented at Box Office!

Who Should Watch: Anyone who voted in our winter Viewer’s Choice Survey,  Film Students who like FREE MOVIES, lovers of comedy, drama, coming of age, politics and basically the BEST of everything IFFLA has to offer.

The Breakdown: 

LOINS OF PUNJAB

Director: Manish Acharya
Cast: Shabana Azmi, Ajay Naidu, Ayesha Dharker
Language: English

LOINS is a finely tuned, expertly executed mockumentary in the style of David Guest. Directed by the late Manish Acharya, this cult hit was his graduate thesis at NYU Tisch. Manish was a beloved member of the IFFLA community- life of the party, destined for greater things, and on track to directing bigger and better projects.

Intrigued? View the Trailer!

UDAAN

Director: Vikramaditya Motwane
Cast: Rajat Barmecha, Ronit Roy, Aayan Bordadia, Ram Kapoor
Language: Hindi (English subs)

Rebellious Rohan gets expelled from boarding school and must return to live with his stern father and the younger half-brother he’s never met. Authoritative and furious at his expulsion, Rohan’s father puts him to work at a steel factory. Forced to study engineering, a field for which he neither possesses the interest nor the aptitude, Rohan’s heart remains tied to his passion for poetry. A stunning coming-of-age portrait that pits self-realization and responsibility against the odds, it’s no wonder how UDAAN garnered a standing ovation at its Cannes premiere.

Intrigued? View the trailer!

BLACK FRIDAY

Director: Anurag Kashyap
Cast: Kay Kay Menon, Pavan Malhotra, Aditya Srivastava
Language: Hindi (English subs)

Addressing the serial bomb blasts that rocked Mumbai in 1993, Anurag Kashyap presents a stunning chronicle of the attacks which took the lives of 300 people, as well as the subsequent anti-Muslim backlash. The film follows the terrorists that masterminded the attack and the ensuing violence and police investigation that occurs in its wake.  Danny Boyle has said that BLACK FRIDAY was his inspiration for SLUMDOG MILLIONAIRE, mentioning that the opening chase scene of his film was based on the 12-minute police chase in Kashyap’s film

Intrigued?

Presenting Organizations:  USC School of Cinematic Arts, Republic of Brown -your dedicated digest for all that is “Indo-cool,” and In Association with Library Foundation of Los Angeles’ ALOUD series

Tickets are $14, FREE TO FILM STUDENTS

Purchase UDAAN 

Purchase BLACK FRIDAY 

Purchase LOINS OF PUNJAB 

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