Spirit of Independence package was one of the most noted categories at the IFFK. Today, at the 7th day of IFFK, the screenings at Kalabhavan commenced with the film “Killer of Sheep”. One of the well-noted film of the Independence package, the film was well-taken by the audience too.

The hero of the movie, “Killer of Sheep” made in the year 1977, is Stan who works in a slaughter house where sheep are callously killed, beheaded and skinned. In this legendary low budget film, Stan who is disturbed due to financial and domestic problems seeks refuge in oft neglected simple moments as he dances with his wife, pampers his daughter etc. the film doesn’t offer solutions, instead it throws light on the simple yet forgotten moments of bliss that one forgets in his struggle to make life beautiful. Another addition is the poignant song score.

Three African-American masters of the Independent film movement have heavily influenced the Spirit of Independence package this year. The three of them are as follows, Jullie Dash {the head of 15th IFFK jury}, Haile Gerima and Charles Burnett. Beyond the illustrious context in all their films, the three of them are distinguished and renowned film makers, who have worked in a mutually supportive production environment with other accomplished contemporaries such as Neema Burnett, Billy Woodberry and Larry Clark. These award winning filmmakers inspired a generation of independent filmmakers not only in North America, but in Europe, Africa, the Caribbean and South America.