'All We Imagine...', 'Sunflowers...': India's accomplishments at 77th Cannes
What's the story
The recently concluded 77th Cannes Film Festival turned out to be a significant platform for India, giving the country a chance to showcase its cinematic excellence and creative talent. Indian filmmakers and actors made a noteworthy impact this year, with Payal Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light bagging the prestigious Grand Prix award. This marked the first time in three decades that an Indian film has received this honor! Here are India's other accomplishments.
Milestones
Anasuya Sengupta and Sandhya Suri brought India glory
Anasuya Sengupta made history by becoming the first Indian actor to win the Best Actress award for her performance in The Shameless (Un Certain Regard). Sandhya Suri's Santosh was featured in the Un Certain Regard section, further highlighting India's cinematic prowess. Notably, Kapadia's All We Imagine As Light just fell short of bagging the Palme d'Or, which went to Anora.
Diversity
Other notable films and Santosh Sivan's landmark moment
Films by Chidanand S Naik and Mansi Maheshwari were featured in the La Cinef section, demonstrating India's diverse storytelling capabilities. Sunflowers Were the First Ones to Know by Naik and Bunnyhood by Maheshwari competed in this section, earning positive reviews. The former clinched the La Cinef Award. Moreover, renowned cinematographer Santosh Sivan received the Pierre Angenieux tribute, a first for an Indian. The award was presented to him by Preity Zinta.
Collaboration
Indo-French collaboration and 'Manthan' screening
The festival spotlighted an Indo-French collaboration with All We Imagine As Light, co-produced by France's Petit Chaos and India's Chalk and Cheese Films. The festival also paid tribute to Indian classics with a special screening of Shyam Benegal's celebrated classic Manthan, nearly 48 years after its original release. Manthan's star Naseeruddin Shah attended the event and received a standing ovation.