The Cannes Film Festival is one of the most prestigious film festivals in the world, and over the years, Indian cinema has made significant inroads into this global arena. Here, we delve into eight Indian movies that left a lasting impression at Cannes, showcasing the diversity and depth of Indian storytelling.
Pather Panchali (1955) by Satyajit Ray
Considered a landmark film of Indian cinema, “Pather Panchali,” meaning “Song of the Road,” is the first film of Ray’s Apu Trilogy. It depicts the impoverished life of an Indian Brahmin family in rural Bengal through the innocent eyes of Apu, the young son. Ray’s masterful storytelling and poignant depiction of poverty won widespread acclaim, putting Indian cinema on the global map.
Do Bigha Zamin (1953) by Bimal Roy
This poignant film, based on a poem by Rabindranath Tagore, tells the story of Shambhu, a poor farmer struggling to hold onto his two acres of land (Do Bigha). The film’s portrayal of social realism and its powerful performances resonated with audiences at Cannes. It highlighted the plight of the rural poor in India, garnering critical acclaim and international attention.
Salaam Bombay! (1988) by Mira Nair
This gritty and heartbreaking film sheds light on the harsh realities of life for street children in Mumbai. Mira Nair’s powerful direction and the phenomenal performance by Shafiq Syed as Krishna, a young boy navigating the brutal world of Bombay’s slums, struck a chord with viewers at Cannes. The film’s raw depiction of urban poverty and its emotional depth earned it critical praise and numerous awards.
Nayakan (1987) by Mani Ratnam
This Tamil gangster film, later remade in Hindi as Nayakan, is considered a classic of Indian cinema. The complex portrayal of the rise and fall of a powerful underworld don, played by Kamal Haasan, captivated audiences worldwide. Ratnam’s intricate storytelling and Haasan’s stellar performance brought the gritty reality of the Mumbai underworld to life, earning the film a place of honor at Cannes.
Lagaan (2001) by Ashutosh Gowariker
This epic historical sports drama set in colonial India tells the story of a group of villagers who challenge their British rulers to a cricket match to avoid a heavy tax increase. Aamir Khan delivers a stellar performance as the rebellious villager who leads the team. The film’s unique blend of history, sports, and drama, along with its vibrant portrayal of rural India, made it a favorite at Cannes and beyond.
The Lunchbox (2013) by Ritesh Batra
This heartwarming and poignant film explores an unlikely connection that develops between a lonely housewife and a grumpy office worker through a mistaken lunchbox delivery. Irrfan Khan and Nimrat Kaur deliver nuanced performances that bring depth to this simple yet profound story. The film’s subtle exploration of loneliness and human connection resonated deeply with audiences at Cannes.
Marana Simhasanam (1999) by Murali Nair
This Malayalam film, meaning “The Throne of Death,” is a powerful and disturbing portrayal of the first execution by electric chair in India. The film’s stark realism and unflinching examination of capital punishment left a lasting impression on audiences at Cannes. Nair’s bold storytelling and the film’s haunting imagery underscored the ethical and moral dilemmas surrounding the death penalty.
All We Imagine As Light (2024) by Payal Kapadia
This experimental and visually stunning film explores themes of love, loss, and revolution against the backdrop of a fictional Gujarat. The film’s unique storytelling and profound cinematography earned it the prestigious Grand Prix award at the 2024 Cannes Film Festival. Kapadia’s innovative approach and the film’s emotional resonance highlighted the evolving landscape of Indian cinema on the global stage.