The International South Asian Film Festival returns to Surrey from September 25 to 29 with a celebration of storytelling and inspiration. The iSAFF was created in 2008 to “bridge the gap” between South Asian talent and mainstream audiences by connecting directors, actors, producers, community organizations, corporate brands and South Asian cinephiles.  The festival celebrates stories not usually represented by mainstream cinema or contemporary Bollywood film formulas, and this year with a theme of ‘Crossroads’, the festival will celebrate South Asian cinema and culture as a hub and a place where many roads intersect, with a “carefully curated selection of thought-provoking and entertaining narrative films, documentaries, episodic and shorts that span a wide range of genres.

This year’s festival will feature 19 world premieres, including Lakshmipriya Devi’s debut feature Boong, which will open the event fresh from its world premiere at TIFF. In addition to feature films, the festival will showcase a diverse selection of 53 short films and five episodic series, making it a must-attend event for film enthusiasts.

The festival kicks off on the evening of September 25 with its Purple Carpet Gala and a sneak peek at some of the films being presented at the festival and special performances. This red-carpet event will be attended by filmmakers, members of the community and the media, and black tie, Indian or fusion dress is recommended.

For more information about the International South Asian Film Festival and schedule, and to purchase tickets, please visit the iSAFF website.