IFFJK opens door for India-Spain cinema collaboration: Spanish filmmaker Anna Saura

Srinagar| Sept, 09: Spanish filmmaker and producer Anna Saura Ramon on Wednesday called for stronger ties between the Indian and Spanish film industries, while describing Kashmir as a suitable location for filmmaking due to its landscapes, lakes and natural light.
Speaking to reporters on the third day of the inaugural International Film Festival of Jammu and Kashmir (IFFJK) at SKICC Srinagar, Saura said language differences should not prevent filmmakers from India and Spain from working together.
“I think we can push for better relationships between India and Spain,” she said.
Saura said this was her first visit to Kashmir and India and expressed hope of returning to the Valley.
“This is my visit to Kashmir and India. I hope to come again,” she said, while expressing interest in exploring Srinagar and experiencing the local culture.
On Kashmir as a filming destination, Saura said the region had locations that could be used for film production.
“Of course, you have to promote Kashmir. There are great locations, good light for shooting and beautiful lakes,” she said.
She said she had shared photographs of Kashmir with a friend, who also suggested that the Valley could be considered as a location for filmmaking.
Saura said the region’s natural landscapes and other locations could offer filmmakers different visual settings. She also said promoting Kashmir as a filming destination would be important for attracting filmmakers and productions from outside the region.
On possible India-Spain film collaborations, Saura said filmmakers from both countries could work together despite differences in language and the two film industries.
She also said there was no reason Indian actors could not be included in future India-Spain productions.
“There are lots of Indian-Spanish films that you will like,” she said.
Asked about the possibility of international filmmakers and studios coming to Kashmir, Saura said cooperation between governments and the film industry could help facilitate such productions.
“I am sure they will come and shoot here and make a movie,” she said.
Commenting on the IFFJK, Saura described the festival as an important initiative and said such events provide opportunities for filmmakers and audiences to engage with cinema from different parts of the world.
“It is important for everyone,” she said.
She said film festivals allow audiences to watch films from other countries while providing filmmakers an opportunity to meet, interact and exchange ideas.
Saura also praised the hospitality in Kashmir and said her first experience of the region had been positive. She expressed hope of returning to Kashmir and spending more time exploring Srinagar and its culture.
The Spanish filmmaker and producer is associated with projects including the documentary “The Kid in the Photo”.
The inaugural IFFJK is being held at SKICC Srinagar, bringing together filmmakers, actors, producers and cinema enthusiasts from India and abroad. The festival is showcasing films and providing a platform for interaction between filmmakers and audiences.