BT Bureau, Panaji: The 54th International Film Festival of India (IFFI), recognized globally as one of the premier ‘International Competition Feature Film Festivals’ by the International Federation of Film Producers’ Association (FIAPF), is set to bestow the Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award (SRLTA) for Excellence in World Cinema upon the legendary Michael Douglas. This announcement was made by Prithul Kumar, Managing Director of NFDC and Joint Secretary Films at the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, during the Curtain Raiser Press Conference held in Panaji.
In the sphere of international film festivals, IFFI stands tall among the distinguished group of 14 globally acclaimed events accredited by FIAPF—a distinction it shares with renowned festivals such as Cannes, Berlin, and Venice.
Michael Douglas, an iconic figure in world cinema, boasting a remarkable career spanning five decades, will grace IFFI to accept the esteemed SRLTA, accompanied by his acclaimed actress wife, Catherine Zeta-Jones. Recognized for his epoch-defining roles and enduring cultural impact, Douglas has made significant contributions to the film industry through his iconic performances and prolific work as a producer.
The esteemed actor, celebrated for portraying memorable American anti-heroes, has received two Academy Awards, five Golden Globe Awards, and a Primetime Emmy Award. His influential roles in cinematic classics like “Wall Street,” “Fatal Attraction,” and “The American President” have left an indelible mark on the world of cinema.
Beyond his cinematic achievements, Michael Douglas has served as a dedicated public servant, activist, and philanthropist. Designated as a Messenger of Peace by former United Nations Secretary-General Kofi Annan in 1998, Douglas has been a fervent advocate for disarmament issues, including nuclear non-proliferation and efforts to curb the illicit trade in small arms and light weapons.
The Hollywood veteran’s commitment to global peace and security extends to his support for organizations dedicated to disarmament and non-proliferation, such as the Ploughshares Fund and the Nuclear Threat Initiative.
As IFFI commemorates its 54th edition, the inclusion of Michael Douglas adds a new dimension to the festival, acknowledging and honoring a cinematic luminary whose impact transcends the silver screen. His upcoming portrayal of Benjamin Franklin in an upcoming limited series further solidifies his status as a multifaceted artist devoted to the art of diplomacy and storytelling. The Satyajit Ray Lifetime Achievement Award at IFFI serves as a fitting tribute to Michael Douglas’s exceptional contributions to world cinema and his unwavering dedication to global causes.
