Although we are yet to make our presence felt at the Cannes International Film Festival, at least in the competition section, Indian cinema has certainly made an impact in Toronto. While the recent Unforgettable Tour premiered there, films like The Last Lear, Kabhi Alvida Naa Kehna and Kabul Express have featured as part of the prestigious Toronto International Film Festival in the past.
In addition to the Preity Zinta starrer Heaven on Earth, which is actually a Canadian film, a documentary about the first Indian police officer titled Yes Madam, Sir will also be screened at the festival. Today, festival organizers announced two new Indian titles. The following are a synopsis of these films taken from the Festival website as well as info about the filmmaker.
Kanchivaram (World Premiere)
Priyadarshan, India
Vengadam is a born optimist and weaver of saris, but his lowly status means he can never afford the fashions he creates. At the birth of his daughter he pledges to wrap her in the finest silk on the day of her wedding, dismaying his community who believe that, if such a promise is not fulfilled, a curse will follow. Desperate to keep his word, he steals a thread of silk each day, weaving secretly each night. But when his access to the silk is jeopardized, Vengadam must find a way to keep from breaking his promise.
Additional Information: Priyadarshan is one of Bollywood’s most celebrated directors in the comedy genre and he is known for making films in Tamil and later re-making them in Hindi, and sometimes vice-versa. With this film, he moves away from comedy into something more serious and many are anticipating this promising flick.
Firaaq (World Premiere)
Nandita Das, India
The directorial debut of celebrated Indian actress Nandita Das, Firaaq traces the emotional journey of those caught up in the religious clashes that took place in the Indian state of Gujarat in early 2002. Set one month after the violent events came to an end, Das’s story unfolds over 24 hours, exploring the impact of violence on the human psyche, on relationships, and on one’s ability to remain hopeful in the face of tragedy.
Additional Information: Nandita Das is extermely well known for her mission to create social awareness through films. All the while, she has been delivering performances that are packed with a punch in films like Fire, Earth, Bawandar, Hari Bhari, Before the Rains and others. With this film, she makes her directional debut which sounds extremely exciting.
Stay tuned during September 4-13 while Bollyspice brings you exclusive reviews of films straight from TIFF 08!
