IFFLA Unveils 2025 Lineup With Several Premieres, Expands Industry Program

India-West Staff Reporter

LOS ANGELES, CA – The Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles (IFFLA) is set to return for its 23rd edition from May 6 to May 10, bringing a compelling lineup of South Asian films and an expanded industry program to the city.

This year’s festival will feature 27 films, including seven narrative features, one documentary, and 18 short films, with a strong emphasis on female-driven narratives, identity, and pressing global issues such as migration, climate change, and artificial intelligence ethics, press release said.

The festival will kick off with the North American premiere of Bad Girl, a Tamil-language drama that follows a young woman’s journey of self-discovery. Produced by acclaimed filmmaker Vetrimaaran and presented by Anurag Kashyap, the film promises a powerful opening. Closing out the festival will be the U.S. premiere of Little Jaffna, a poignant exploration of the Tamil diaspora’s experiences in Paris.

This year’s lineup includes two world premieres, six North American premieres, three U.S. premieres, and 14 Los Angeles premieres. Notable selections include Sabar Bonda (Cactus Pears), a Sundance Grand Jury Prize-winning film exploring queer intimacy within Indian society; The Fable, a mystery starring Manoj Bajpayee that revolves around a series of unexplained fires and A Fly on the Wall, a documentary by Shonali Bose, which delves into assisted suicide and personal autonomy.

IFFLA’s Industry Days, set for May 8 and 9, will offer networking sessions, panels, and masterclasses designed to connect South Asian creatives with Hollywood executives. A major highlight of this year’s industry programming is the newly introduced $10,000 Pitch Competition Grant, where five finalists will compete for funding and mentorship to bring their projects to life.

The festival will also shine a spotlight on 18 short films, many of which tackle themes of identity, mental health, and the South Asian diaspora.

Screenings and events will be hosted at Landmark Theatres Sunset and the Writers Guild Theater in Beverly Hills. Key sponsors include the National Endowment for the Arts, Joy of Sharing Foundation, and the Los Angeles County Department of Arts and Culture.

For tickets and more information, visit www.indianfilmfestival.org.