Films

2024 Film line-up

Competition Films

Ghoomer | 2023 | 2 Hr 15 Mins
Directed by R. Balki

“Ghoomer” is an inspirational sports drama that follows the story of Anina Dixit, an aspiring cricketer whose dreams are shattered when she loses her dominant hand in a tragic accident. Saiyami Kher stars as Anina, who finds herself struggling with despair and a bleak future. Her life changes when she meets Paddy, played by Abhishek Bachchan, a former cricketer turned coach battling his own personal demons. Recognizing Anina’s latent potential, Paddy decides to coach her, transforming her perceived weakness into an extraordinary strength.

The film’s core is the evolving relationship between Anina and Paddy, highlighting themes of resilience, mentorship, and determination. The intense coaching sequences, where Anina learns to play cricket with one hand, are emotionally charged and showcase her journey of overcoming physical and emotional challenges. R. Balki’s direction balances emotional depth with the excitement of sports, enhanced by dynamic cinematography and Amit Trivedi’s compelling musical score.

Supporting performances by Shabana Azmi and Angad Bedi add depth, while Amitabh Bachchan’s cameo as a cricket commentator brings additional gravitas. “Ghoomer” transcends traditional sports drama by addressing broader themes of societal perceptions of disability and the redefinition of success. It is a poignant tribute to the human spirit, demonstrating that with determination and support, any obstacle can be overcome, making it a significant contribution to contemporary Indian cinema.

Masoom | 1983 | 2 Hr 18 Mins
Directed by Shekhar Kapur

“Masoom,”’ directed by Shekhar Kapur, is a seminal family drama exploring the complexities of relationships and forgiveness. Adapted from Erich Segal’s novel “Man, Woman and Child,” the film stars Naseeruddin Shah as D.K. Malhotra, whose life is disrupted by the arrival of Rahul, his son from an extramarital affair. Shabana Azmi plays Indu, DK’s wife, who initially struggles to accept Rahul, played by Jugal Hansraj. The narrative captures the emotional turmoil within the Malhotra household as they come to ferms with this new reality.

Kapur’s direction ensures the film’s emotional beats are both poignant and realistic. The use of natural settings and everyday moments lends authenticity to the narrative, while the film’s pacing allows for a deep exploration of each character’s emotional landscape. Shabana Azmi’s nuanced performance as Indu captures her journey from pain to acceptance, while Naseeruddin Shah portrays a man torn between past mistakes and the desire to make things right.

Integral to the film’s emotional impact is its music, composed by R.D. Burman with lyrics by Gulzar. Songs like “Tujhse Naraz Nahin Zindagi” and “Lakdi Ki Kaathi” have become timeless classics. “Masoom” is a masterclass in storytelling, combining powerful performances, a compelling narrative, and a hauntingly beautiful soundtrack. It explores the fragility and resilience of human relationships, making it a timeless classic in Indian cinema.

12th Fail | 2024 | 2 Hr 5 Mins
Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra

“I2th Fail” is a motivational drama directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra, chronicling the life of a young student whose academic journey is marked by significant setbacks. Despite failing his 12th grade exams, the protagonist, portrayed by Vikrant Massey, refuses to let this failure define his future. The film is based on a true story, serving as a beacon of hope for those facing similar challenges, emphasizing that failure is not an endpoint but a stepping stone to greater achievements.

The narrative delves into societal pressures and personal doubts accompanying academic failure. Chopra adeptly captures the emotional highs and lows of the protagonist’s journey, portrayed with authenticity and depth by Massey. The supporting cast, including Pankaj Tripathi as a wise mentor and Anupriya Goenka as the supportive but concerned sibling, adds substantial depth, showcasing varied perspectives on success and failure. The protagonist’s relationship with his parents, played by Geetanjali Kulkarni and Sanjay Mishra, is particularly poignant, reflecting complex familial dynamics and the struggle for understanding and support.

“12th Fail” highlights the critical role of mentorship and guidance, with interactions between the protagonist and his mentors providing crucial life lessons. The thoughtfully integrated soundtrack and background score enhance the emotional impact of key scenes. Choprd’s direction ensures that the film remains engaging and inspirational, balancing the protagonist’s internal and external struggles. The film serves as a powerful reminder that academic setbacks do not define one’s potential for future success. Through its compelling narrative and strong performances, “12th Fail” celebrates the human spirit’s capacity to overcome adversity and turn failures into opportunities for growth, making it a significant and inspiring addition to contemporary Indian cinem

Manthan | 1976 | 2 Hr14 Mins
Directed by Shyam Benegal

“Manthan,’ directed by Shyam Benegadl, is a revolutionary film that captures the essence of rural empowerment through collective action. Set in a small Indian village, the story follows Dr.Rao, a veterinary doctor who initiates a milk cooperative movement to free the villagers from the clutches of exploitative dairy barons. Inspired by the real-life White Revolution in India, led by Dr. Verghese Kurien, the film showcases the transformative power of unity and grassroots mobilization.

The narrative intricately portrays the villagers’ struggle against entrenched interests, highlighting the socio-economic and cultural barriers they overcome. Benegal’s direction ensures a realistic portrayal of rural life, with the use of authentic settings and natural performances. The film’s pacing allows for a deep exploration of the characters’ motivations and the collective effort required to bring about change. The ensemble cast delivers compelling performances, making the villagers’ triumphs and setbacks deeply relatable.

“Manthan” is notable for its impactful storytelling and its emphasis on community-driven development. The film’s themes of cooperation, empowerment, and social justice resonate strongly, making it a landmark in Indian cinema. The evocative musical score by Vanraj Bhatia further enhances the film’s emotional depth. “Manthan” remains a powerful testament to the potential of collective action to bring about meaningful change in society.

Sthal ( A Match) | 2023 | 1 Hr 50 Mins
Directed by Vishal Chaturvedi

“Sthal” is a gripping drama that examines the socio-political tensions surrounding land ownership in rural India. The film follows a family embroiled in a bitter land dispute, highlighting themes of inheritance, power, and justice. Through raw and authentic storytelling, “Sthal” brings to light the harsh realities faced by agrarian societies and the profound impact of land on identity and survival.

Vishal Chaturvedi’s direction captures the intense emotional and legal battles of the family, portraying their struggles with a stark realism. The narrative delves into the complexities of rural life, including the socio-economic and cultural factors influencing land disputes. The film’’s pacing ensures a thorough exploration of the characters’ motivations and the broader socio-political context. The performances are powerful and nuanced, providing a deeply engaging portrayal of the human cost of land conflicts.

“Sthal” is a significant exploration of the deep-rooted issues surrounding land ownership and social justice in rural India. The film’s authenticity and emotional depth make it a compelling watch, offering a window into the lives of those for whom land is a crucial part of their identity and existence. By highlighting the enduring conflicts and moral complexities, “Sthal” contributes to a greater understanding of the socio-political landscape in rural India.

Dear Jassi | 2024 | 2 Hr 20 Mins
Directed by Tarsem Singh

“Dear Jassi” is a heartwarming love story that transcends cultural and social barriers. The film follows Jassi, a young woman from a traditional Sikh family, and her lover from a different background. Despite facing societal pressures and familial opposition, their love endures, challenging norms and expectations. The narrative beautifully captures the couple’s journey, highlighting the power of love and resilience in the face of adversity.

Tarsem Singh’s direction blends emotional depth with cultural authenticity, providing a nuanced portrayal of the challenges faced by the protagonists. The film’’s pacing allows for a thorough exploration of the characters’ relationship, while the authentic settings and cultural details add richness to the narrative. The performances are heartfelt and compelling, bringing the story’s emotional core fo life.

“Dear Jassi” is a celebration of love’s ability to overcome obstacles and bridge cultural divides. The film’s themes of resilience, acceptance, and the transformative power of love resonate deeply, making it a touching and inspiring story. Through its compelling narrative and strong performances, “Dear Jassi” offers a poignant reminder of the enduring power of love and the importance of challenging societal norms.

Ullozhukku | 2024 | 2 Hr 10 Mins
Directed by Christo Tomy

“Ullozhukku” is an intense drama set in the picturesque yet treacherous backwaters of Kerala. Directed by Christo Tomy, the film weaves a tale of survival and moral dilemmas against the backdrop of natural calamities. The central narrative follows a family’s attempt to bury a loved one, a mission thwarted by relentless floodwaters. This crisis forces them to confront long-buried secrets and lies that threaten to unravel their unity. The film stars Parvathy Thiruvothu and Urvashi in lead roles, delivering powerful performances that bring depth and nuance to their characters.

Christo Tomy’s direction masterfully captures the raw beauty of Kerala’s backwaters while highlighting the harsh realities faced by the characters. The narrative delves into the socio-economic struggles of the fishing community, emphasizing themes of survival, resilience, and moral conflict. The film’s pacing ensures deep engagement with the characters’ journeys, making their experiences and challenges profoundly relatable. The floodwaters, depicted with stark realism, become a metaphor for the emotional and ethical turbulence the family endures.

“Ullozhukku” stands out for its authentic storytelling and strong performances. The film’s depiction of the daily struggles of the fishing community, coupled with the ethical dilemmas they face, is both compelling and thought-provoking. Parvathy Thiruvothu and Urvashi deliver nuanced and captivating performances, bringing the audience into their world of constant strife and fleeting hope. By highlighting the resilience and hope that drive the characters, “Ullozhukku” offers a poignant reflection on the human spirit’s capacity to endure and persevere amidst overwhelming odds. Through its gripping narrative and strong performances, the film provides a vivid portrayal of life in Kerala’s backwaters, making it a significant addition to contemporary Indian cinema.

Naale Raja Koli Majaa | 2024 | 1 Hr 22 Mins
Directed by Abhilash Shetty

“Naale Raja Koli Majaa” is a delightful Kannada film directed by Abhilash Shetty, serving as a sequel to the beloved “Koli Taal.” The film presents a quirky and heartwarming adventure set against the backdrop of Gandhi Jayanti, a day when meat sale is prohibited nationwide. The story centers around an Il-year-old girl who embarks on a spirited quest to find

forbidden chicken curry, navigating through various obstacles and encountering unique characters along the way.

The film’s narrative brilliantly captures the essence of childhood curiosity and determination. Through the eyes of the young protagonist, the audience is taken on a whimsical journey filled with humor and unexpected twists. Abhilash Shetty’’s direction deftly balances the lighthearted adventure with deeper cultural and social themes, making the film both entertaining and thought-provoking.

“Naale Raja Koli Majaa” stands out for its engaging storytelling and vibrant depiction of rural life. The performances, especially by the young lead actress, bring authenticity and charm to the narrative. The film’s short runtime of | hour and 22 minutes ensures a tight, well-paced story that keeps the audience captivated from start to finish. The sequel continues to explore the themes of tradition and change introduced in “Koli Taal,” while adding new layers of humor and adventure.

Kasoombo | 2024 | 2 Hr 36 Mins
Directed by Vijaygiri Bava

“Kasoombo” is an epic Gujarati film directed by Vijaygiri Bava, set against the historical backdrop of Allauddin Khilji’s intent to pillage the sacred temples and cultural heritage of Shetrunjay. The story follows Dadu Barot, portrayed by Dharmendra Gohil, who leads a small band of defenders in a valiant effort to protect their heritage from Khilji’s overwhelming forces.

The film features Raunag Kamdar as Amar Barot, a key ally in Dadu’s struggle, and Darshan Pandya as the formidable Allauddin Khilji. The cast is rounded out by Chetan Dhanani as Arjun, Shraddha Dangar as Sujan, Monal Gajjar as Roshan, and Firoz Irani as Visabha, each delivering powerful performances that bring depth to this historical drama.

Vijaygiri Bava’s direction expertly blends dramatic storytelling with rich cultural elements, capturing the grandeur and intensity of the period. The film’s 2-hour and 36-minute runtime allows for a detailed exploration of the characters and their high-stakes conflicts. The cinematography vividly portrays the stark beauty of Shetrunjay and the looming threat of Khilji’s invasion, creating a visually stunning backdrop for the narrative.

“Kasoombo” excels in its depiction of historical events, emphasizing themes of bravery, sacrifice, and cultural preservation. Dharmendra Gohil and Raunaq Kamdar’s performances are particularly notable, bringing emotional and physical battles to life. The film’s attention to historical accuracy and detail makes it a significant contribution to Gujarati cinema, celebrating the spirit of resistance and the importance of protecting cultural heritage against overwhelming odds.

Maaran | 2024 | 2 Hr 20 Mins
Directed by Abhishek Jain

“Maaran” is a gripping Gujarati film directed by Abhishek Jain, set in a dystopian patriarchal society where masculine dominance is the norm. The film delves into the dark and unsettling world of Maaran, a social pariah who deals with his sense of emasculation by ruthlessly targeting unsuspecting women, altering their lives forever. This film paints a stark picture of a world steeped in gender-based discrimination, subjugation, and violence.

The narrative centres around two female characters, Birwa and Tara, portrayed by Deeksha Joshi and Yash Seni. Birwa is a victim of human trafficking, while Tara is on the verge of meeting the same fate. As their lives intersect, the film explores the brutal realities of a society that marginalises and exploits women. Through their harrowing experiences, “Maaran” exposes the pervasive impact of patriarchal oppression.

Abhishek Jain’s direction masterfully captures the intense and dark themes of the film, with powerful performances by Deeksha Joshi and Yash Soni adding depth and authenticity to their roles. The cinematography enhances the film’s grim atmosphere, effectively portraying the dystopian world in which these characters struggle to survive. The narrative’s pacing ensures that the audience remains deeply engaged with the unfolding drama, highlighting the pervasive issues of gender-based violence and discrimination.

“Maaran” stands out for its bold storytelling and unflinching examination of societal norms. The film’s powerful message underscores the urgent need to address and challenge systemic oppression faced by women. Through its compelling narrative and strong performances, “Maaran” serves as a significant commentary on the harsh redlities of a patriarchal society, making it a poignant and thought-provoking addition to contemporary Gujarati cinema.

Land of Gold | 2022 |105 minutes | USA | English/Punjabi/Hindi

Kiran Singh (Nardeep Khurmi), a 1st generation Punjabi-American, has just accepted a last-minute trucking job to Boston which causes a blow-up argument with Preeti (Pallavi Sastry), his 37-week pregnant wife, who admits to feeling abandoned. En route to complete this “one final job,” Kiran discovers Elena (Caroline Valencia), a 10-year-old Mexican-American stowed away in his trailer. After debating the merits of turning her to the police, Kiran deduces she might be undocumented, and instead resolves to shepherd Elena to her uncle in Boston despite putting his own livelihood in jeopardy. As the pair ride across the changing American landscape, Kiran faces what it means to be a father and Elena learns how to trust again. They connect through family, dreams of the future, and a healthy debate over God’s existence, all while the ghosts of the past, racially charged encounters, and the threat of I.C.E. linger over their journey. Land of Gold is the 2021 AT&T Untold Stories winner. AT&T’s Untold Stories program is a multi-year, multi-tier alliance between AT&T and Tribeca, along with the year-round nonprofit Tribeca Film Institute to develop underrepresented content creators. The program awards one million dollars, mentorship, and distribution to underrepresented filmmakers to produce their film and premiere it at the Tribeca Film Festival.

Shivamma 2022 | 104 minutes | India | Kannada

Synopsis: Shivamma (46), a mother of two and the wife of an ailing bedridden husband, works as a government school mid-day meal cook in a small village. She is the only active working member of her family. Her entire family is in the process of finding a suitable groom for her daughter, though she has her own affair running alongside. Shivamma is introduced to a nutritional product and, looking at it miraculously bettering her husband’s condition, she tries to explore it further and learns about its network marketing scheme and its financial benefits. Getting highly inspired at a motivational event, she decides to take the risk of setting up her own nutritional club, putting everything at stake. But one unfortunate event derails all her attempts and also threatens her daughter’s wedding. Despite all the opposition and the blame from her own family, Shivamma’s determination stays unaltered.

The Winter Within 2022 |99 minutes | India/France/Qatar | Kashmiri and Urdu

In the city of Srinagar, Nargis searches for her missing husband, Manzoor, until she is forced to hopelessly return to her village home. With a little help from a local man Yaseen, she silently toils away on an exquisite weave. But the quiet of the Kashmiri winter is like the silence of the graveyard, waiting to be shredded by what lies buried within.

Tora’s Husband, 2022 | India | 135min | Language: Assamese

Tora lives in a town in Assam. She is a mother to two rambunctious children and is married to a good man named Jaan (played by the director’s brother Abhijit DAS). Tora’s husband runs a bakery and restaurant and does civil engineering projects so a lot of people beyond family rely on him but there are stresses that dog at his heels. The onset Covid-19 exacerbates everything. Debts add up, orders dry up, customers act up while staff get sick, quit, and people die. As Jaam begins to struggle, the sickness of the age seems to seep into him and he turns to alcohol while turning away from Tora who tries to understand him while keeping their Covid-hit household afloat. Shot over the course of 15 months during the pandemic, DAS uses an observational style to depict a family drama during the age of Covid-19.

Follower, 2021 | India | 140 Min | Language:Marathi,Kannada

Follower tells the story of a brainwashed youth belonging to a marginalized community and by digging deeper in his story, attempts to explore a world infected with hate propagated by misinformation about each other. The film navigates through personal differences of characters and creates a microcosm of a larger society that is consumed in the ‘US vs THEM’ mindset.

Don , 1978 | India| 166 Min | Language:Hindi

A powerful gangster named Don (Amitabh Bachchan) flees the cops and is killed during a showdown with Officer D’Silva (Iftekhar). Hoping to crack down on the remainder of Don’s gang, D’Silva convinces a man named Vijay (also Bachchan), who is the spitting image of Don, to assume Don’s identity and go undercover to bust Don’s gang. But then D’Silva gets killed, and everyone from the gangsters to the cops think Vijay is Don. If he can’t convince them otherwise, it may prove fatal.

Deewaar , 1975 | India | 174 Min | Language:Hindi

Two brothers (Shashi Kapoor, Amitabh Bachchan) head for a showdown when one becomes a policeman, and the other, a criminal.

Vendhu Thanindhu Kaadu, 2022 | India | 172 Min | Language:Tamil

A young low-caste village boy travels to Mumbai to earn a living and to study. His quest takes him on a series of unexpected events, where he gets involved in the underground activities of Mumbai’s Tamil gangsters.

Rocketry, 2021 | India | 149 Min | Language:Hindi

Based on the life of Indian Space Research Organization scientist Nambi Narayanan, who was framed for being a spy and arrested in 1994. Though free, he continues to fight for justice against the officials who falsely implicated him

Mavka: the forest song, 2023 | 99 Min | Ukraine| Language:Ukrainian

Mavka must choose between love and duty to protect the Heart of the Forest.

Sholay, 1975 | India | 198 Min | Language:Hindi

After his family is murdered by a notorious and ruthless bandit, a former police officer enlists the services of two outlaws to capture the bandit.

Vinnaithandi Varuvaya, 2010 | India | 157 Min | Language:Tamil

An aspiring filmmaker goes through the ups and downs of romance when he falls for a Christian woman who says she only wants to be friends

Films

Competition Films

Ghoomer | 2023 | 2 Hr 15 Mins Directed by R. Balki

Masoom | 1983 | 2 Hr 18 Mins Directed by Shekhar Kapur

12th Fail | 2024 | 2 Hr 5 Mins Directed by Vidhu Vinod Chopra

Manthan | 1976 | 2 Hr14 Mins Directed by Shyam Benegal

Sthal ( A Match) | 2023 | 1 Hr 50 Mins Directed by Vishal Chaturvedi

Dear Jassi | 2024 | 2 Hr 20 Mins Directed by Tarsem Singh

Ullozhukku | 2024 | 2 Hr 10 Mins Directed by Christo Tomy

Naale Raja Koli Majaa | 2024 | 1 Hr 22 Mins Directed by Abhilash Shetty

Kasoombo | 2024 | 2 Hr 36 Mins Directed by Vijaygiri Bava

Maaran | 2024 | 2 Hr 20 Mins Directed by Abhishek Jain