This year’s lineup is impressive, featuring over 110 films in more than 50 languages, covering a diverse range of genres from around the world. PVR INOX and Regal Cinema are supporting the festival by providing screening venues, ensuring that attendees experience these cinematic gems in style.
On the second day, audiences were treated to a selection of films that included hidden gems from world cinema, restored classics, and competitive entries. Some of the day’s standout features included:
Arth: Mahesh Bhatt’s iconic film received a special screening, honoring Shabana Azmi for her remarkable 50 years in cinema. During the opening ceremony, Azmi was presented with the Excellence in Cinema Award. Arth tells the story of Pooja, a woman grappling with the social insecurities of single life after her husband, Inder, starts an affair with a film star. The narrative also follows Pooja’s cleaning lady, highlighting the search for identity amid personal turmoil.
The Fable: Directed by Raam Reddy and featuring Manoj Bajpayee, this film premiered at MAMI. Set in the late 1980s in the Himalayas, it follows Dev, a family man who constructs mechanical wings and confronts mysterious fires in his orchard, leading him to profound truths about himself and his family. The screening was attended by Bajpayee, Priyanka Bose, Deepak Dobriyal, and director Reddy.
Ghamasaan: Directed by Tigmanshu Dhulia, this film had its gala premiere and was attended by Arshad Warsi, Pratik Gandhi, and Ishita Dutta. It explores themes of community, patriarchy, and desire through a gripping narrative, offering a fresh perspective on familiar societal landscapes.
Girls Will Be Girls: This South Asia Competition film directed by Shuchi Talati tells the story of 16-year-old Mira at a strict Himalayan boarding school, who harbors a risky secret involving a forbidden romance. The film tackles adolescent challenges and the complexities of young love.
The Shameless: Directed by Konstantin Bojanov, this film was featured in the Focus South Asia section and premiered at the Cannes Film Festival 2024. It follows Renuka, who escapes from a brothel after killing a police officer, and finds romance with Devika, a 17-year-old prostitute in a community of sex workers.
The Substance: This bold body horror film by Coralie Fargeat critiques toxic beauty standards imposed on women in Hollywood. Demi Moore delivers a standout performance as Elisabeth Sparkle, a former fitness icon grappling with the harsh realities of aging in the industry.
Day 2 was also marked by the presence of notable attendees, including Shabana Azmi, Vatsal Sheth, Hrithik Roshan, Vishal Bharadwaj, and Gulshan Deviah, adding to the festival's celebratory atmosphere.
As the MAMI Mumbai Film Festival continues, cinephiles can look forward to more cinematic treasures and enriching discussions, reinforcing its status as a key platform for filmmakers and audiences alike.
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