Online ticket booking for IFFK planned

In a bid to avoid screening-time rush at theatres during the 13th International Film Festival of Kerala (IFFK) being held from December 12 to 19, the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy (KSCA) has decided to introduce online booking system for balcony seats at venue theatres.

The decision follows complaints and suggestions from various quarters regarding the heavy rush experienced at theatres during film screening at the festival in the last couple of years. More than 7,000 delegates attended the festival last year, and the number is expected to increase this time.

“We have decided to facilitate online booking for balcony seats in all festival theatres. Delegates will be able to access the internet right from the venue theatres where internet kiosks will be set up exclusively for this purpose. Delegates can book the seats a day or two days in advance, which will be finalised later,” Academy Chairman K.R. Mohanan said.

He said the Academy was working on the technical and financial aspects of setting up the internet kiosks. “We are yet to decide whether the Academy should directly put up the kiosks or seek the service of an external agency for the purpose,” Mr. Mohanan said.

While the increased public participation has added to the popularity and prominence of IFFK, the overcrowded theatres have been worrying many film buffs who complain that a sizeable section of the crowd lack genuine interest in cinema. Instances of unruly and obtrusive behaviour at theatres, including mobile phone usage, have also been a cause of concern.

However, Mr. Mohanan said the Academy does not intend to introduce any crowd-restricting measures this time. “The Academy’s objective has largely been to popularise quality cinema through this festival. So we cannot limit access to the festival. However, we will take measures to maintain discipline,” he said, adding that the scenario was much better last time compared to the 11th IFFK.

Although members from the film fraternity had also appealed for a separate venue owing to the increasing crowd at the festival, the Academy has not considered this request.

“Earlier, the delegates at the film festival almost entirely comprised of filmmakers, actors and other film technicians. But in the past few years, the participation of members from the film fraternity has decreased considerably. That is one reason why we have not considered their request for a separate venue,” Mr. Mohanan said.

Chalachitra Academy secretary K.S. Sreekumar said crowd management would be a major concern while charting the festival schedule. “I think we can manage the crowd at theatres to some extent by judicious planning of the schedule. As far as maintaining discipline at theatres is concerned, we need to create more awareness on this through the media,” he said.

He said mobile jammers might not be introduced this time due to economic reasons. “Already the increased print rentals and setting up of internet kiosks have led to additional financial commitments. We do not think we might be able take any more of that,” he said. Meanwhile, online delegate reservation for the 13th IFFK has already begun. The last date for registration with payment is November 30.