Regional cinema is experimenting with newer narratives: Prasoon Joshi

Regional cinema is experimenting with newer narratives: Prasoon Joshi

National Award-winning films from Assam, Kerala, West Bengal and Lakshadweep will represent India’s regional cinema at the 71st Cannes Film Festival where a delegation led by Information and Broadcasting Minister Smriti Irani will work towards it’s distribution and exhibition in the global market.

Assamese film Village Rockstars, Malayalam film Bhayanakam, Bengali movie Nagarkirtan, and Sinjar, a film from Lakshadweep made in the Jasari language, will be showcased at the festival’s India Pavilion, which was was inaugurated on May 9. 

Ministry of External Affairs; Censor Board Chairperson Prasoon Joshi, said, “Cannes has always been a source of inspiration. As an artist, to see the nuanced and crafted best of world cinema is food for the mind and soul. I am keen to see as much of the final selection. Whilst one has been to Cannes on several other occasions,  this time it would be special to be part of the Indian contingent, represent our country’s cinema, and find opportunities for it to shine brighter on world and stages like Cannes.”

The lyricist and screen writer said that Cannes is a wonderful platform and an ideal place to showcase the cultural and linguistic diversity of Indian cinema. “It’s also an opportunity for our national award winners to find more exposure and inspiration to and from the best of world cinema. It’s equally important to also explore the business opportunities that an event like Cannes can provide for our industry,” he added. 

This year, the focus is on regional cinema and  pushing co-production treaties. “As a country we make close to 2000 films a year. Whilst the Hindi films may dominate the popular consciousness, it’s our regional cinema that is experimenting with newer narratives. The layered and authentic content needs to be showcased. For the world to understand and appreciate the depth of our cinematic landscape and it’s rich content will be a win-win for Indian as well as world cinema,”he said, adding, “ To see one’s cultural narrative unfold and be interpreted from another culture’s unique perspective and vice versa is enriching for a creative industry. What India has to offer be it in terms of content or business opportunities is huge.” 

Enjoyed reading The Bridge Chronicle?
Your support motivates us to do better. Follow us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter to stay updated with the latest stories.
You can also read on the go with our Android and iOS mobile app.

Related Stories

No stories found.
logo
The Bridge Chronicle
www.thebridgechronicle.com