India’s Film Federation Begins the Process to Select India’s Official Entry for the 96th Academy Awards, with Prominent Films Including ‘Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani’ and ‘The Kerala Story’ in the Running.
The race for India’s official entry to the 96th Academy Awards in 2024 has commenced, and this year’s selection process is highly anticipated due to the exceptional performance of Indian films in 2023. With movies like “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani” and “The Kerala Story” in contention, the Film Federation of India’s Oscar selection committee is facing the challenging task of choosing the country’s entry for the prestigious awards ceremony. This year’s submissions reflect the growing influence and global recognition of Indian cinema.
A Remarkable Year for Hindi Films
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The year 2023 has been extraordinary for Hindi cinema, marked by the phenomenal success of films like “Pathaan,” “Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani,” and “Gadar 2.” These movies not only crossed the Rs 100 crore mark worldwide but also set new records at the box office. After such a stellar run in theaters, these top Indian films are now vying for the honor of representing India at the 96th Academy Awards, scheduled for March next year.
High Hopes Following Oscar Wins
India’s film industry had a momentous year at the Oscars in the previous edition, winning two Academy Awards. “RRR” secured India’s first-ever Oscar for a feature film by clinching the Best Original Score category at the 95th Academy Awards. Furthermore, Guneet Monga’s “The Elephant Whisperer” brought home the Academy Award for Best Documentary Short Film. These victories have raised expectations for next year’s Oscars, and India’s cinema enthusiasts are eagerly awaiting the selection of India’s official entry.
The Selection Process Unveiled
The Film Federation of India’s Oscar selection committee has initiated the meticulous process of choosing India’s official entry for the 96th Academy Awards. The committee, comprising 17 members, is led by acclaimed filmmaker Girish Kasaravalli, who will play a pivotal role in making the final decision. To ensure a comprehensive evaluation, several screenings have been organized in Chennai.
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A Wealth of Submissions
This year, the Oscar committee has received over 22 submissions from across India, showcasing the diversity and depth of Indian cinema. These submissions span various languages and genres, reflecting the rich tapestry of Indian storytelling. Filmmakers have submitted an array of remarkable films for consideration, underscoring the nation’s cinematic prowess.
Prominent Submissions
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Some of the noteworthy films submitted for consideration include:
- “The Storyteller” (Hindi): This intriguing film is part of the selection pool, captivating audiences with its narrative prowess.
- “Music School” (Hindi): A musical journey that has resonated with audiences, this film adds depth to India’s Oscar entry consideration.
- “Mrs. Chatterjee vs Norway” (Hindi): Rani Mukerji’s powerful performance in this film has garnered attention, making it a strong contender.
- “12th Fail” (Hindi): This thought-provoking film delves into the complexities of education and personal growth.
- “Viduthalai Part 1” (Tamil): Tamil cinema contributes to the selection with this impactful offering, reflecting societal issues and personal struggles.
- “Ghoomer” (Hindi): Abhishek Bachchan’s starrer adds star power to the selection, offering audiences a unique cinematic experience.
- “Dasara” (Telugu): Nani’s blockbuster film has garnered praise and commercial success, making it a contender for India’s official entry.
Screenings and Decision-Making
The screening process for these films commenced recently and will continue for a week. The committee will carefully evaluate each submission, considering factors such as storytelling, performances, and cinematic impact. A final announcement regarding India’s official entry for the 96th Academy Awards is expected in the coming weeks.
Potential Surprise Entry
In an intriguing development, director Atlee, the mastermind behind “Jawan,” expressed his intention to discuss the film’s submission for India’s official entry with Shah Rukh Khan. If this plan comes to fruition, “Jawan” could emerge as a surprise entry and add another layer of excitement to the selection process.
As the process to select India’s official entry to the 96th Academy Awards unfolds, the nation’s cinema enthusiasts eagerly await the decision. With a diverse range of exceptional films under consideration, the Film Federation of India’s Oscar selection committee faces a challenging yet rewarding task. The chosen film will represent India’s cinematic excellence on the global stage, and the nation’s film industry continues to make strides in garnering international recognition and acclaim.
