'A Fly on the Wall': Busan-bound doc explores 'assisted death'
The Indian documentary A Fly on the Wall, directed by Nilesh Maniyar and Shonali Bose, is set to have its world premiere at the Busan International Film Festival (BIFF). The film will be part of the Wide Angle Documentary competition. The documentary follows the final days of Chika Kapadia, who chose physician-assisted suicide at Dignitas in Switzerland after being given four months to live.
'It's about removing the fear surrounding death...'
In a teaser unveiled on Monday, Bose speaks directly to the camera—candidly sharing her raw emotions about her friend's decision and how difficult it is to witness someone you love leaving the world in that way. Touching on the film's deeper message, she adds, "Ultimately, for me, it's about removing the fear surrounding death and seeing it as a natural part of life—something that can be peaceful and dignified." The 29th edition will be held from October 2 to 11.
Documentary captures emotional journey of filmmakers
A Fly on the Wall not only documents Kapadia's journey toward death, but also the emotional response of the filmmakers. This is the third feature film collaboration between Maniyar and Bose to be presented at Busan, following Farhan Akhtar-Priyanka Chopra Jonas-led The Sky Is Pink and Margarita with a Straw. The directors hope that the film will initiate discussions about end-of-life choices and dignity in death.
Filmmakers shared their thoughts on the project
Bose shared, "Chika, my friend of 25 years, approached Nilesh and me with a deeply personal mission: to capture how peaceful physician-assisted suicide could be, hoping to reduce the fear and alarm surrounding it." Maniyar added, "What began as Chika's personal quest became a joint mission for all three of us - Chika, Shonali and myself. And in that came a question of the fact that a filmmaker is a friend too."
