Lithuanian Film “Toxic” Triumphs at 55th IFFI
璀璨的星光，备受好评的电影，在印度国际电影节上大放异彩
The 55th International Film Festival of India (IFFI) concluded on November 28, showcasing a diverse slate of cinematic achievements and honoring standout films and filmmakers. Lithuanian filmmaker Saulė Bliuvaitė’s “Toxic” took home the top prize, lauded for its raw portrayal of adolescence against a backdrop of poverty.
The festival jury, headed by noted Indian director Ashutosh Gowariker, highlighted the film’s compelling blend of gritty realism and poignant tenderness. “Toxic” previously captured both the prestigious Golden Leopard for Best Film and the top prize in the First Feature Film Competition at the Locarno Festival, marking a historic double victory.
Variety praised “Toxic” for its exploration of crucial themes, calling it “sobering but not without glimmers of tenderness and humor as female friendship takes root in a hopeless place,” adding that its “alternation between chilly composure and kinetic movement roughly corresponds with [the protagonist’s] wavering sense of self.”
Romanian director Bogdan Muresanu was awarded Best Director for “The New Year That Never Came”, a multi-narrative feature set during a tumultuous period of revolution. Muresanu’s ability to weave together tragicomedies against the backdrop of social upheaval was lauded by the jury.
The acting accolades honored performances from both established and emerging talent. Clément Faveau received Best Actor for his compelling performance in the French feature “Holy Cow”, directed by Louise Courvoisier. “Who Do I Belong To?”, the Tunisian-French-Canadian co-production, received a special mention for Adam Bessa. In a notable joint win, “Toxic” stars Vesta Matulytė and Ieva Rupeikaitė shared the Best Actress prize, marking a remarkable achievement for the debut talent.
“Holy Cow” garnered further recognition, including the Special Jury Award. Sharing the spotlight, Sarah Friedland’s “Familiar Touch” emerged as the Best Debut Feature, showcasing the director’s distinctive voice and promise. The ICFT International Film Prize with the UNESCO Gandhi Medal was presented to Levan Akin’s “Crossing”. The film, following an elderly Georgian’s journey to Istanbul in search of her missing niece, touched on universal themes of familial bonds and resilience.
Navjyot Bandiwadekar’sOpti Marathi-language film “Gharat Ganpati” secured the Best Debut Director of an Indian Film Award, showcasing a fresh perspective within Indian cinema. The festival also celebrated cinematic achievements throughout a career. Acclaimed Australian Flowersfilmmaker Phillip Frances Noyce received IFFI’s Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award.
Mastery within new media was also revered as SonyLIV’s “Lampan”, a coming-of-age narrative set in rural India by Nipun Dharmadhikari won Best Web Series.
The 55th IFFI, organized by India’s Ministry of Information & Broadcasting and the National Film Development Corporation of India (NFDC), served as a platform for global cinema to connect, spotlighting the power of storytelling and its ability to transcend cultural boundaries.
What are the defining characteristics of Saulė Bliuvaitė’s film “Toxic”?
## From Vilnius to Goa: ‘Toxic’ Director Saulė Bliuvaitė on Her IFFI Triumph
**Interviewer:** Saulė, congratulations on ‘Toxic’ winning the Golden Peacock at IFFI. What does this recognition mean to you, especially after your success at Locarno?
**Saulė:** Thank you so much! It’s truly an honor, and honestly, a little surreal. Going into IFFI, we were hopeful, but to receive such a prestigious award on top of our Locarno wins feels absolutely incredible. It validates the story we wanted to tell and the powerful talent of the young actors who brought it to life.
**Interviewer:** ‘Toxic’ is a raw and unflinching look at adolescence against the backdrop of poverty. What inspired you to tackle this subject?
**Saulė:** Growing up in Lithuania, I witnessed firsthand the harsh realities faced by marginalized communities, especially young women. I felt a responsibility to shed light on their struggles, their resilience, and the unique beauty that exists even in the most challenging circumstances. I wanted to show the world both the grit and the tenderness that define young lives amidst poverty.
**Interviewer:** The jury praised the film’s ”compelling blend of gritty realism and poignant tenderness.” How did you balance those seemingly contrasting elements in your storytelling?
**Saulė:** That’s the core of the film, I believe. Life itself is a tapestry of darkness and light. The characters in ‘Toxic’ face immense hardship, but they also find solace and strength in their friendships, their dreams, and fleeting moments of joy.
**Interviewer:** ‘Toxic’ has resonated with audiences and critics alike. What message do you hope viewers take away from your film?
**Saulė:** I hope ’Toxic’ sparks conversation about social inequality, the challenges faced by youth, and the power of human connection. Ultimately, I want audiences to empathize with the characters and see their humanity, even in the face of adversity.
**Interviewer:** This is a huge moment for Lithuanian cinema. What does it mean to be representing your country on such a global platform?
**Saulė:** It’s a tremendous honor. This win isn’t just for me; it’s for the entire Lithuanian filmmaking community. It shows the world that we have powerful stories to tell and talented filmmakers capable of creating impactful cinema that resonates across cultures.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Saulė, for sharing your thoughts with us. Congratulations again on your remarkable achievement.
**(End of Interview)**
