Movies
Film Companion brings together experts and enters the education industry
MUMBAI: Have you been dreaming of pursuing a career in film, but have been groping in the dark as you are clueless about what to do and how to do? You are confused because there are so many institutions that offer multiple courses. But how to check their authenticity and credibility is the important question.
So here’s the deal you can’t say no to. What if there is a course that has industry-leading modules and taught by known figures from the industry itself? Film Companion has come up with a unique e-learning course aimed at providing hands-on, interactive learning to bridge the gap between academics and the industry.
The most unique aspect about this course is the fact that each module will be taught by celebrated working professionals from the industry. They come with rich experience, having worked in the industry for so long that they can impart the right knowledge to wannabe directors and writers.
Film Companion believes in the philosophy that providing hands-on learning to discerning students who are eager to make a mark in the exciting world of films. Instead of relying on theoretical studies Film Companion seeks to make the best of valuable industry practices. This unique model is tailor-made for students to achieve optimum knowledge in less time than any other film institute.
These industry professionals draw from their own experience and examples from their work to impart the practical application of the various disciplines and aspects that encompass the wide gamut of filmmaking.
Let’s take a look at the various courses provided by Film Companion:
This first module on ‘Film Criticism’ features some of the best-known film critics from the industry such as Anupama Chopra, Baradwaj Rangan, Rahul Desai and Sucharita Tyagi.
These professional critics will break down the finer aspect of film criticism and give the students an in-depth knowledge into the finer aspects of film criticism.
A total of 10 topics are covered under the Film Criticism module.
It ranges from ‘Who is a film critic’ to ’How to review a film’. All these four critics give their unique perspectives and insights from their own experiences. Each critic will break down their movie watching and writing process. The module has been fashioned in such a way that the students will be equipped with practical knowledge to enrich their movie watching experience. They will end up as professional film critics.
The this short course covers ten lessons, which include: writing about films, why is film criticism important, who is a critic, etc.
The faculty includes some of the acclaimed names in the Indian film industry.
Ø Anupama Chopra: She is a film critic, television anchor and well-known author. She has been writing about Bollywood since 1993.
Ø Baradwaj Rangan: He is a national award-winning film critic and critically acclaimed author.
Ø Rahul Desai: He is a film critic (formerly of Mumbai Mirror, Catch News). His writings encompass everything about film.
Ø Sucharita Tyagi: She has been a prime-time radio jockey, interviewer, and writer.
To enroll for Class In Session by Film Companion visit: https://www.filmcompanion.in/courses/writing-about-films/
Hindi
MIFF 2026 to return to Mumbai; film entries open till April 12
19th edition to host WAVES Doc Bazaar, spotlighting global documentary talent
MUMBAI: The 19th edition of the Mumbai International Film Festival 2026 is set to take place from June 15 to 21 at the NFDC Complex, with film submissions currently open and the deadline fast approaching on April 12.
Organised by the National Film Development Corporation under the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting, the biennial festival remains one of South Asia’s most prominent platforms for documentary, short fiction and animation films.
Filmmakers, producers and content creators from across the globe have been invited to submit entries via the Film Freeway platform for the Competition Section. Offline submissions will not be accepted, reinforcing a fully digital entry process.
MIFF 2026 continues to sweeten the deal with a robust awards pool of Rs 55 lakh. The coveted Golden Conch for Best Documentary carries a top prize of Rs 10 lakh, alongside multiple awards across categories, making it one of the most lucrative non-feature film festivals in the region.
A key highlight this year will be the second edition of the WAVES Doc Bazaar, scheduled from June 16 to 18 alongside the festival. Designed as a hub for collaboration, the Doc Bazaar will feature a co-production market, viewing rooms and a work-in-progress lab, bringing together global buyers, sellers and creators under one roof.
Since its inception in 1990, MIFF has built a reputation as a serious showcase for non-feature cinema, drawing participation from filmmakers worldwide. The previous edition saw over 350 films from more than 30 countries, underlining its growing international footprint.
With submissions closing soon and preparations underway, MIFF 2026 is shaping up to be a vibrant meeting point for storytelling, collaboration and cinematic craft, offering filmmakers both a stage and a springboard.
