Mumbai, July 27: IFFM 2023 is thrilled to announce that a remarkable lineup of Marathi films has been shortlisted for special screenings in cinemas and online. These captivating films showcase the extraordinary talents of Marathi filmmakers, highlighting the diverse storytelling and cinematic brilliance from the region.
Ghaath (Feature Film) – In Cinemas:
Aatmapamphlet – Autobio-Pamphlet (Feature Film) – In Cinemas:
Against the Tide (Documentary Film) – In Cinemas:
“Against the Tide” written and directed by Sarvnik Kaur is a gripping documentary film that delves into the lives of courageous individuals who dared to challenge societal norms. It’s about two friends, both Indigenous fishermen, who are driven to desperation by a dying sea. Their friendship begins to fracture as they take very different paths to provide for their struggling families.Through their inspiring stories, the film sheds light on important social issues, sparking conversations that demand change. The film’s cinematic excellence and impactful narrative have earned it a well-deserved spot in theatres.
Viral (Short Film) – Online:
“Viral” directed by Shreyas Dasharathe is an enthralling short film in Urdu, Marathi and Hindi language that takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster, exploring the power of the internet and its impact on modern relationships. It’s about two friends who are avid fans of an egg-seller from Karachi who has found a huge online following in their city of Mumbai but is virtually unknown in his own vicinity, Karachi. They connect online and what follows is a heartfelt journey to a promising friendship that exists in the borderless realm of the online world. The cast includes Harsh Rane, Ashitosh Gaikwad, Hammad Siddiq as the protagonist.
Rekha (Short Film) – Online:
“Rekha” directed by Shekhar Babu Rankhambe is an evocative short film that explores the complexities of human emotions and relationships. Rekha, a 21-year-old homeless woman living on the streets contracts a fungal infection. Her husband forbids her from bathing, but Rekha defies him. Shocked by the community’s reasons against bathing, she leaves her husband to prioritize her health. Overcoming obstacles, Rekha seeks support from other women to find solutions. This poignant story explores her journey to stay clean and her fight for dignity. The cast includes Maya Pawar as Rekha, Vaishali Kendale, Tamina Pawar, Satyappa More and Anuradha Salunkhe.
Follower (Feature Film) – In Cinemas:
“Follower” directed by Harshad Nalawade is an edge-of-the-seat thriller that takes the audience on a thrilling ride through unexpected twists and turns. In a small town riddled with territorial dispute, a radicalized journalist believes in exposing the atrocities committed against his community. But his beliefs are based on half-truths propagated by an extremist leader. The film stars Raghu Prakash, Donna Munshi, Harshad Nalawade.
Vaat (Feature Film) – Online:
“Vaat” directed by Miransha Naik is a compelling feature film that unravels the complexities of human desires and the consequences that follow. The film narrates present day Goa, a small and an extremely reserved Hindu community that serves as home to Mattu, 30, a farmer. He makes the mistake of beating up another villager and in return, his family is shunned from the temple rituals and fined a hefty sum of 3 lakhs. Not only does the family have to deal with the humiliation of being social outcasts, but Mattu has to come up with the money quickly or else his sister’s wedding will be called off. The film cast includes Arjun Radhakrishnan, Raavi Kishor, Deepti Devi.
These exceptional Marathi films have been carefully curated for their exceptional storytelling, cinematography, and performances. The Indian Film Festival of Melbourne aims to foster cultural exchange, promote diversity, and provide a platform for Indian filmmakers to showcase their work to an international audience between August 11th to 20th, 2023.
