India’s official entry for the 2024 Oscars is the Malayalam film ‘2018,’ directed by Jude Anthany Joseph. This gripping survival drama, subtitled ‘Everyone Is A Hero,’ explores the harrowing aftermath of the 2018 Kerala floods. Starring Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali, Vineeth Sreenivasan, Narain, and Lal, ‘2018’ not only garnered critical acclaim but also shattered box office records, becoming the highest-grossing Malayalam film of all time and a standout in Indian cinema this year.
During a press conference, Girish Kasaravalli, the chairman of the 16-member selection committee, highlighted the film’s selection due to its powerful portrayal of the effects of climate change. This marks a significant moment as ‘2018’ competes in the Best International Feature Film category, formerly known as Best Foreign Film.
This nomination is a noteworthy achievement, as it has been nearly two decades since an Indian entry, ‘Lagaan’ in 2002, made it to the final five at the Oscars. Only two other Indian films, ‘Mother India’ and Mira Nair’s ‘Salaam Bombay!,’ have achieved this distinction before.
In the previous year, ‘Chhello Show’ represented India but did not secure a nomination. Nonetheless, Indian cinema celebrated successes, with ‘Naatu Naatu’ from ‘RRR’ winning Best Original Song and ‘The Elephant Whisperers’ taking home the award for Best Documentary Short Subject. Shaunak Sen’s ‘All That Breathes’ received a nomination for Best Documentary Feature.
Reflecting on the history of Indian achievements at the Oscars, Bhanu Athaiya remains the first Indian Oscar winner, recognized for Best Costume Design in ‘Gandhi.’ Legendary filmmaker Satyajit Ray received a Lifetime Achievement Oscar in 1992, and ‘Slumdog Millionaire’ made waves in 2009 with multiple wins, including Best Original Song for ‘Jai Ho,’ Best Original Score for A.R. Rahman, and Best Sound Mixing for Resul Pookutty.
The 2024 Oscars ceremony is scheduled for March 10 next year.
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