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In a notable partnership, acclaimed Indian directors Shoojit Sircar and Vikramaditya Motwane have collaborated on the short film ‘Thursday Special’. Directed by National Award-winning filmmaker Varun Tandon, this evocative piece has gained significant attention on the international film festival circuit, receiving multiple accolades.
‘Thursday Special’ explores themes of love, companionship, and the passage of time. Its poignant storytelling recently earned the prestigious Most Poetic Film Award at the Küstendorf Film Festival in Serbia, selected by renowned director Emir Kusturica.
Heartwarming storytelling and relatable themes
The narrative centers on characters Ram and Shakuntala, portrayed by Anubha Fatehpuria and Ramakanth Dayama, respectively. This elderly couple’s relationship is deeply intertwined with their love for food and a cherished tradition they uphold every Thursday. The film captures the essence of their bond, illustrating how shared experiences shape their connection.
Insights from the directors
Sircar, known for films like ‘Piku’ and ‘Vicky Donor’, expressed his admiration for the film’s understated narrative style, stating, ‘Thursday Special’ truly resonated with me due to its simplicity and gentle storytelling. He compared it to his own unreleased project, ‘Shoe Bite’, featuring megastar Amitabh Bachchan. Sircar praised Tandon’s ability to portray themes of companionship and aging with maturity, a commendable achievement for a young filmmaker.
Motwane, recognized for his innovative contributions to modern Indian cinema, highlighted the film’s exploration of often-overlooked narratives. He remarked, Many stories we tell are human stories; however, we frequently overlook the unique tales hidden in the everyday lives of ordinary people. He urged audiences to engage with the film, emphasizing its capacity to inspire meaningful discussions beyond mere aesthetics.
A filmmaker’s passion and vision
For Tandon, creating ‘Thursday Special’ fulfills a long-held vision. The filmmaker, who previously received a Special Jury Award for his short film ‘Syaahi’, expressed enthusiasm for bringing these characters to life, sharing, This story has lived in my heart for years, and I was driven by the excitement to see these characters unfold on screen.
Tandon elaborated on the film’s premise, describing it as a heartfelt representation of a couple whose lives are intricately tied to their shared passion for food. Through their weekly tradition, the audience is invited into their world, exploring deeper facets of their relationship.
Critical acclaim and recognition
Since its premiere at Mecal Pro in Barcelona, ‘Thursday Special’ has amassed over 25 awards from various international festivals. This includes accolades such as Best Narrative Short at the New York Indian Film Festival, Best International Short Film at the Adelaide Independent Film Festival, and Best Narrative Short at the Tryon International Film Festival.
‘Thursday Special’ is scheduled for release on January 29 via the Humans of Cinema YouTube channel, providing audiences the opportunity to experience this beautifully crafted narrative. With its heartfelt portrayal of love and tradition, the film promises to resonate with viewers worldwide.