The Kerala State Film Development Corporation (KSFDC), in association with the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, recently announced the launch of the International Film Market of Kerala (IFMK), a dedicated industry platform set to take place from December 13–16, 2025, in Thiruvananthapuram. This platform aims to connect regional filmmakers with global co-production and financing opportunities. Originally conceived and initiated by the late Shaji N. Karun, a renowned filmmaker and former KSFDC Chairman, as the Kerala Film Market in 2023, the initiative began as a knowledge-sharing forum featuring curated panels, masterclasses, and expert-led conversations. Over two successful editions, it organically evolved into a space where projects were pitched, collaborations formed, and professionals connected across borders. Speaking about the journey and vision, K. Madhu, veteran filmmaker and Chairman of KSFDC, shared in a statement, “The International Film Market of Kerala marks a significant leap forward in our state’s cinematic journey. As a filmmaker, I understand how vital professional platforms are for creators to take their stories to the world. IFMK will offer just that — a space where ideas meet opportunity, and where film professinals can engage with the global market on equal footing.” WATCH | Theatre The Myth of Reality Trailer: Rima Kallingal allegorizes womanhood in this magic realist experiment IFMK is conceived as an integral part of the International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK), bringing a business and industry dimension to one of India’s most artistically respected film festivals. “IFFK has long been celebrated for its artistic excellence and cultural relevance,” said Premkumar, actor and Chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy. He added, “With the launch of IFMK, we are complementing that legacy by creating an industry arm that focuses on outcomes — on financing, distribution, and professional partnerships. This is a vital step for our ecosystem, and I'm proud to see it take shape here in Kerala.” The IFMK will feature several key components: a Project Market for pitching to producers, distributors and festivals; a Fine Cut Lab offering post-production mentorship from international advisors; Industry Talks on production trends and technology; a Video Library for films seeking distribution or festival exposure; and exhibition space for film commissions and service providers. According to Priyadarsanan P S, Managing Director of KSFDC, the market is part of a larger strategy for long-term growth. “With IFMK, we are creating more than an event — we’re building infrastructure for long-term industry growth. This platform will help talents access global networks, find the right partners, and compete confidently in international markets. This initiative will nurture creativity and ambition across the film industry,” he shared. "With IFMK, Kerala is not only showcasing its cinematic potential but also building a sustainable bridge between regional creativity and the global film economy. The 2025 edition marks the beginning of this ambitious journey — one that promises to turn conversations into collaborations, and ideas into internationally recognized cinema, "she shared.
