The Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA) has announced an expanded format for its Industry Days, which will now be a two-day event taking place on 8 and 9 May 2025 at Landmark Theatres Sunset in Los Angeles, California.
IFFLA Industry Days serves as a platform for South Asian filmmakers and television creators to connect with major players in the global entertainment industry. Representatives from top studios and organisations such as Neon, SAGIndie, Netflix, NBCUniversal, Orion Pictures, and Film Independent will participate.
This year’s edition introduces IFFLA Connect, a new initiative created in collaboration with Cinévesture, aiming to support select projects from India, Nepal, Bangladesh, and North America. Highlights include “Koyta”, the directorial debut of actress Radhika Apte, and “Moving Bangladesh” by director Nuhash Humayun. Projects by Vikramaditya Motwane, Ravi Kapoor, and Deepak Rauniyar are also part of the line-up.
IFFLA Connect aims to link promising South Asian-led projects with decision-makers for support in funding, production, casting, and more.
The Launchpad: Pitch Competition returns with a prize of $10,000, offering five finalists the chance to present their works-in-progress to a live panel and audience.
Panels during Industry Days will explore critical topics including the ethical use of AI in storytelling in “The Human Loop” and the global future of cinema in “Global Vision”. IFFLA will also spotlight the acclaimed stage adaptation of Life of Pi, currently on its U.S. tour, through a special discussion.
A masterclass titled “From Dhaka to Hollywood” will feature Nuhash Humayun, offering insights into genre-bending storytelling and cross-industry filmmaking.
Two types of passes are available:
- Industry All-Access Pass (₹220) includes entry to all screenings, galas, and industry events.
- Industry Days Pass (₹80) covers panels, the masterclass, and pitch competition events.
Jury Announced for 2025
IFFLA also revealed its juries for 2025:
Feature Film Jury:
- Rajshri Deshpande, actress known for Sacred Games and Angry Indian Goddesses
- Priyanka Mattoo, writer-director and author
- Carla Renata, film critic and journalist
Short Film Jury:
- Maureen Bharoocha, director of The Prank and Golden Arm
- Kausar Mohammed, actress featured in The Flash and Appendage
- Sudeep Sharma, Sundance programmer
