The All Living Things Environmental Film Festival (ALT EFF) is set to return with its fifth edition, aiming to spotlight films rooted in environmental issues, wildlife conservation, sustainability, and climate action.
Turtle Walker, produced by Zoya Akhtar and Reema Kagti and directed by Taira Malaney, will open the festival in Mumbai on December 4, marking the beginning of a 10-day showcase featuring 80+ films—including Kiran Rao-backed Humans in the Loop— from India and across the globe.
Actor–filmmaker Shriya Pilgaonkar and National Award-winning filmmaker Pan Nalin will headline the jury for the 2025 edition of the festival, with actors Richa Chadha and Randeep Hooda joining ALT EFF as ambassadors.
In a joint statement, the team of Turtle Walker —Akhtar, Kagti and Malaney—said it is a privilege that the film is opening ALT EFF, a festival that has "consistently amplified voices and stories at the frontlines of environmental change."
"Satish Bhaskar’s life’s work represents decades of grit, passion and commitment to protecting India’s marine ecosystems, and we felt compelled to bring that to the screen... We’re grateful for the festival’s vision and excited to be part of a year that promises urgent, relevant and deeply inspiring films," the statement read.
Kunal Khanna, Founder & Festival Director, ALT EFF, said, the festival was created with a conviction that cinema can "inspire people to think differently and act decisively."
"Over the last six years, films from across the globe have shown us time and again that audiences everywhere recognise one urgent reality: safeguarding the planet is no longer optional," Khanna said in a statement.
Anaka Kaundinya, Programming Director, said the 2025 programme offers a blend of international narratives and hyperlocal voices. "We’re looking forward to witnessing how viewers respond to these films, whether they’re watching in cinemas, at community gatherings, or through our new watch-party experiences.”
