Latest news with #InternationalFilmFestivalRotterdam
Time of India
4 days ago
- Entertainment
- Time of India
In fraught times, city dir's ‘Immigrants' gets int'l fim fest Rotterdam grant
1 2 3 Kolkata: In fraught times, Suman Mukhopadhyay 's 'Immigrants' — set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition of India and topical in the context of today's identity politics — is the only recipient from India of the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR)'s Hubert Bals Fund (HBF). The 15 projects, which will receive a grant of €10,000 to support their development, were selected from more than 900 applications. Author Debesh Roy penned a story named 'Udbastu'. Mukhopadhyay's project is inspired by that work and is about a displaced family from the 1947 Partition of India struggling to rebuild their lives in a fledgling immigrant colony on the outskirts of Kolkata. When a state inquiry questions their identities, conflicting narratives unravel their past, threatening their existence and tearing at the fabric of their family bonds. "This is a historically rooted drama set against the backdrop of the 1947 Partition of India. Its focus is on the fragility of identity in the face of institutional demands for 'proof' and the deep scars that forced migration leaves on personal histories," Mukhopadhyay said. According to the director, 'Immigrants' was born from a profound sense of disquiet about the lives of those whose stories were never officially recorded, whose names were lost due to bureaucratic lapses, and whose lives were rewritten in the margins of history. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Libas Purple Days Sale Libas Undo "The Partition of 1947, despite its monumental impact, often remains a sanitised topic in cinema — reduced to historical spectacle or political drama. 'Immigrants' resists this reduction," he added. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata Although primarily regarded as a theatre personality, Mukhopadhyay's recent career achievements have been in cinema. His film 'Putulnacher Itikatha' competed at this year's IFFR. "I have directed nine full-length feature films including 'Putulnacher Itikatha' (2023), 'Nazarband' (2020), 'Asamapta' (2017), and 'Herbert' (2005), which won the National Award for Best Regional Film that year. It is a misconception that cinema is not my forte. Anyone who looks at my body of work will understand that my films have been to many prestigious festivals around the world," he said. The filmmaker has also not ignored some attempts to deliberately downplay his achievements in cinema and pigeonhole him only as a theatre personality. "I hope the IFFR selection will make people notice how consistently I have been working in films as much as devoting time to theatre," Mukhopadhyay said.
News18
6 days ago
- Entertainment
- News18
Bad Girl Teaser Pulled Down After Madras HC Flags 'Sexualised' Portrayal Of Minors
Last Updated: Bad Girl teaser removed from YouTube after Madras HC flags concerns over bold depiction of minors. Court cites risk of corrupting young minds. The teaser of Bad Girl, a Tamil coming-of-age drama that stirred intense debate since its release, has been taken down from YouTube following a directive by the Madras High Court. The film, produced by acclaimed filmmaker Vetri Maaran and presented by Anurag Kashyap, came under legal and public scrutiny for its portrayal of teenage sexuality and cultural identity. Directed by Varsha Bharath, Bad Girl explores the inner world of a Brahmin schoolgirl grappling with desire, freedom, and the weight of societal expectations. The teaser featured scenes of the young protagonist candidly discussing sex and relationships, a portrayal that sparked backlash from certain right-wing groups who accused the film of 'negatively stereotyping" the Brahmin community. Justice P Dhanabal of the Madras High Court, while ordering the removal of the teaser, remarked: 'If the children see the said contents of the videos, certainly it will spoil the minds of the children." The court's stance reflects growing concerns about the representation of adolescence and sexuality in Indian cinema, especially when intertwined with religious and caste identities. Set against the conservative backdrop of a traditional Tamil household, Bad Girl charts the journey of a teenager who dares to question norms, chase her desires, and break free from familial and cultural constraints. The teaser hints at a narrative that confronts moral policing and slut-shaming head-on, as the protagonist seeks a boyfriend and attempts to live life on her own terms, only to face ridicule and condemnation. Despite the controversy, Bad Girl has already made waves internationally. It premiered at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, where it received the prestigious NETPAC Award for its bold storytelling and nuanced depiction of youth, gender, and identity. The film stars Shanthi Priya, Saranya Ravichandran, Hridhu Haroon, TeeJay Arunasalam, and Sashank Bommireddipalli in pivotal roles. Whether Bad Girl emerges as a landmark in Indian indie cinema or becomes another lightning rod in the culture wars remains to be seen — but it has undeniably started a conversation that won't fade anytime soon. view comments First Published: July 24, 2025, 20:08 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Broadcast Pro
12-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Broadcast Pro
CineMart calls for project submissions for 43rd edition
The upcoming edition will mark the introduction of CineMart x HBF, a new official strand spotlighting Hubert Bals Fund-supported projects. CineMart, the co-production market of the International Film Festival Rotterdam (IFFR), has opened project submissions for its 43rd edition, which will be held during the 55th IFFR from January 29 to February 8, 2026. The upcoming edition will debut a new strand titled CineMart x HBF, designed to highlight projects supported by the Hubert Bals Fund (HBF), further reinforcing the festival's commitment to fostering original storytelling and nurturing emerging talent. As CineMart continues to evolve and expand, applicants are encouraged to note changes to the submission process. This includes a tiered fee structure aimed at accommodating the growing volume of entries and the resources required to evaluate them. The standard and late submission deadlines are set for August 21 and August 27, respectively. Priority will be given to projects making their first market presentation at Rotterdam, emphasising the market's role as a launchpad for bold new voices in cinema. The CineMart x HBF initiative seeks to strengthen the relationship between IFFR's funding and market activities, offering an integrated path for previously supported HBF projects. Recent successes such as Gabriel Mascaro's The Blue Trail and Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine as Light underscore the potential impact of this synergy, both having benefited from HBF support and CineMart exposure en route to international acclaim. CineMart 2026 will also continue to embrace immersive media storytelling, inviting submissions from projects in development that seek funding or co-production partners. Recent immersive works presented at CineMart have gone on to receive international recognition, including Duchampiana by Lilian Hess and The World Came Flooding In by Isobel Knowles and Van Sowerwine. Project teams that have previously received Hubert Bals Fund support are encouraged to contact CineMart directly for tailored guidance on how to apply. The 2026 edition aims to deliver a tightly curated selection of standout projects, offering a platform for artistic innovation and global collaboration at a critical stage of development.
Time of India
05-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Time of India
Paranthu Po review: Shiva and Ram's musical road, Comedy wins hearts online
The director Ram, who is well-known for his emotionally intense dramas, has taken a refreshing detour with 'Paranthu Po,' a musical road comedy that hit theatres on July 4, 2025. The movie is starring Shiva, Grace Antony, and child actor Mithul Ryan, the film has quickly become a talking point on social media, with netizens praising its warmth, humor, and emotional depth. Plot 'Paranthu Po' follows the story of Anbu, an energetic 8-year-old boy living in a cramped Chennai apartment with his overworked parents, Gokul played by Shiva and Glory portrayed by Grace Antony. As they are struggling to balance EMIs and parenting, the couple often leaves Anbu alone with his toys and online classes. A spontaneous road trip between father and son becomes the actual heart of the film, as they meet strangers, landscapes, and life lessons that reshape their bond once and for all. Netizens react: 'So heartwarming, poignant, and funny' Social media platform lit up with praise for the film. One user wrote, 'Who would've thought Ram would team up with an actor like Shiva and give a movie like Paranthu Po. So heartwarming, poignant, and funny. Cinema.' Another fan shared their excitement after a chance encounter with the director: 'Went 3BHK, had an option to watch Paranthu Po in Sathyam or Palazzo, chose Palazzo… guess what. Met Ram and hugged him.' A third viewer summed up the film's charm saying, '#ParanthuPo is light, beautiful, and musical. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Nhà tiền chế 2025: Lựa chọn nhà ở giá cả phải chăng (Xem ngay) Nomad's Notebook Nhấp vào đây Undo As always, Ram covers heavy topics, but this time he blends them with humor. The hills and trees feel like characters themselves. Grace, Shiva, and the kid Anbu deliver fabulous performances.' Music, visuals, and performances shine The film's music which is composed by Santhosh Dhayanidhi with background score by Yuvan Shankar Raja, has been praised for enhancing the emotional beats of the story. Cinematographer NK Ekambaram and editor Mathi VS bring a defining quality to the visuals, capturing the lush landscapes of Tamil Nadu and Kerala. A new side of Shiva Known for his comedic timing in 'Tamizh Padam,' Shiva's performance as a guilt-ridden but loving father has been described as his 'best so far' by early reviewers. His chemistry with Mithul Ryan, who plays Anbu, anchors the film's emotional core. What's next? Following its theatrical release, 'Paranthu Po' is expected to stream on JioHotstar, with satellite rights secured by Vijay TV and Colors Tamil. The film had its international premiere earlier this year at the International Film Festival Rotterdam under the Limelight section.
Indian Express
27-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Indian Express
Parandhu Po trailer: Director Ram set to win hearts with a light-hearted tale of parents' unconditional love
After generating significant buzz at the International Film Festival Rotterdam, the much-anticipated Tamil film Parandhu Po, directed by Ram, is all set for its theatrical release on July 4. The makers recently unveiled the film's trailer, which promises a heartwarming and light-hearted narrative. The trailer opens with a glimpse into a family of three, where the young son is seen attending virtual classes. When he sends a heart emoji to a fellow student, the teacher inquires about the whereabouts of his parents, who are notably absent from home. The boy's extended indoor stay hints at underlying tensions, as the story soon follows the family embarking on a transformative journey together. Through a series of interwoven moments filled with joy, conflict, and self-discovery, Parandhu Po is a tribute to the resilient fathers and mothers who strive to succeed and prove their love to their children. Watch | 3BHK trailer: Siddharth and Sarathkumar strive to buy a house in this middle-class tale of aspirations and faith Parandhu Po, starring Mirchi Shiva, Aju Varghese, Grace Antony, and others, explores the nuanced bond between parents and children. The narrative focuses on a child's yearning for freedom and how this desire gradually inspires the parents to embrace that same spirit of liberation. Fans will be pleased to know that the celebrated collaboration between director Ram and composer Yuvan Shankar Raja continues, though with a slight twist. While Yuvan was initially slated to compose the full soundtrack, his commitments to other major projects limited his contribution to the film's background score. The songs, meanwhile, were composed by Santhosh Dayanidhi. Director Ram, known for acclaimed films like Katrathu Tamil, Thanga Meengal, Peranbu, and Taramani, brings his signature blend of emotional depth and realism to Parandhu Po. Additionally, the film marks the Tamil debut of popular Malayalam actor Aju Varghese, adding to its cross-industry appeal.
