The much-anticipated Frames Film Festival, hosted by the Department of Multimedia and Mass Communication at SIES College in Nerul, is all set to kick off on Thursday. First launched in 2003, the festival has grown to become India’s largest undergraduate film festival, offering a prestigious platform for aspiring filmmakers to showcase their work.
Over the years, Frames has attracted international participation, with entries from renowned institutions such as the New York Academy, London Academy, and the Film and Television Institute of India (FTII). The festival is also known for its distinguished jury, consisting of famous personalities from the film and media industry.
Held over three days, the festival screens a diverse range of films, including International, National, Animation, and Documentary films. Entries are carefully scrutinized by the college’s core team before 10 films are selected for the final screening. These films are then judged by a panel of experts.
Notable celebrities who have graced the event in past editions include Mahesh Bhatt, Anurag Kashyap, Kriti Kulhari, Jackie Shroff, Vicky Kaushal, Yashpal Sharma, and Dibakar Banerjee, further adding to the festival’s prestige.
The festival’s founding in 2003 was a pivotal moment for budding filmmakers, providing a much-needed platform for them to express their creativity in an era when opportunities for independent film exhibitions were scarce. “Our Principal Koel Roy Choudhary, as well as our faculty members Mithun Pillai (HOD of BAMMC), Abhishek Dandekar (Chairperson of Frames Film Festival), Divya Nair, and Tejal, have been the backbone of the festival, providing unwavering support for its success,” say the students of the BAMMC program.
This year, the 22nd edition of the Frames Film Festival unveils its theme: Nayaab – Echoes of Silent Masterpieces, emphasizing the discovery of unique and rare cinematic gem. The core committee behind this year’s edition includes Abbas Kaggalwala, Parv Thete, Samruddhi Menon, and Aparna Pillai.
“Frames Film Festival is more than just a celebration of films. It is an emotional and transformative experience that helps students grow both professionally and personally,” said Mithun Pillai, HOD of BAMMC. “What started as a student initiative in 2003, when college film festivals were a rare occurrence, has now become a stepping stone into the media industry, offering students invaluable learning and networking opportunities.”
The festival not only serves as a launchpad for emerging filmmakers but also contributes significantly to the cultural fabric of the region. With its legacy of nurturing talent and bridging the gap between education and the entertainment industry, Frames remains a milestone event in the world of undergraduate film festivals.
