India’s Kerala State Film Development Corporation is launching the International Film Market of Kerala, a professional industry platform running Dec. 13-16 in Thiruvananthapuram that aims to connect regional filmmakers with global co-production and financing opportunities.
Malayalam-language cinema, produced in the southern Indian state of Kerala, is known for its realistic storytelling, strong literary adaptations, and has gained international recognition through filmmakers like Adoor Gopalakrishnan, the late Shaji N. Karun, and recent commercial successes that blend art-house sensibilities with mainstream appeal.
The initiative represents an evolution of the Kerala Film Market, which launched in 2023 as a knowledge-sharing forum featuring panels and masterclasses. Over two editions, the platform organically grew into a networking space where projects were pitched and cross-border collaborations formed. The original concept was developed by Karun, director of Cannes selections “Piravi,” “Swaham” and “Vanaprastham,” and former KSFDC chair.
“The International Film Market of Kerala marks a significant leap forward in our state’s cinematic journey,” said K. Madhu, veteran filmmaker and KSFDC chair. “IFMK will offer just that — a space where ideas meet opportunity, and where film professionals can engage with the global market on equal footing.”
IFMK is designed as an integral component of the International Film Festival of Kerala, one of India’s most artistically respected festivals. While IFFK celebrates cinema as a cultural force, IFMK adds a business dimension focused on co-production infrastructure, financing and market access.
“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,” said Premkumar, actor and chairman of the Kerala State Chalachitra Academy, which is partnering on the initiative.
The market 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.
Leena Khobragade, former director of Film Bazaar, south Asia’s largest project market, serves as consultant, bringing international industry expertise to the venture.
“With IFMK, we are creating more than an event — we’re building infrastructure for long-term industry growth,” said Priyadarsanan P.S., KSFDC managing director. “This platform will help talents access global networks, find the right partners, and compete confidently in international markets.”