The search for India’s official Oscars 2024 submission has begun, and contenders include the films Rocky Aur Rani Kii Prem Kahaani, Zwigato, The Kerala Story, and Balagam. The Oscar selection committee began the selection process with multiple screenings in Chennai, and the decision is anticipated to be made by next week.
SS Rajamouli’s RRR and Guneet Monga’s The Elephant Whisperers both took home two Oscars, making it a great year for India at the Oscars. A source claims that this has given the filmmakers “new confidence” to choose the project, which is the reason they are considering it “a wide range of commercial, regional as well as serious cinema from the country”.
According to a report by Hindustan Times, the committee has received over 22 submissions from all around India. A 17-member panel led by director Girish Kasaravalli will make the selection.
“Some of the films, which have been sent to the Film Federation of India for Oscar selection, include names such as Anant Mahadevan’s The Storyteller (Hindi), Music School (Hindi), Mrs Chatterjee vs Norway (Hindi), 12th Fail (Hindi), Viduthalai Part 1 (Tamil), Ghoomer (Hindi), and Dasara (Telugu),” averred a source to Hindustan Times.
The insider further added, “The list might have additions such as Vaalvi (Marathi), Gadar 2 (Hindi), Ab Toh Sab Bhagwan Bharose (Hindi), and Baap Lyok (Marathi). We have received their application, but are waiting for the fees.”
The committee members have as of now landed in Chennai and is enthusiastic for the selection process. “The screening started yesterday, and would take a week as there is a huge pool of films to be watched and then they will decide. We can expect an announcement about the official entry from India next week,” mentioned the source.
Pan Nalin’s Gujarati film Last Film Show (Chhello Show), which received mixed reviews, was selected as India’s official entry for the Best International Feature Film category of the 95th Academy Awards previous year.
