NEWS
Image Credits: The Leela Palace
It’s official: 2018, a Malayalam survival drama, is India’s official entry for the 2024 Oscars. True to its title, the storyline documents the devastating floods that brought normalcy and livelihoods to a screeching halt in the state. Directed by Jude Anthany Joseph, the film features Tovino Thomas, Kunchacko Boban, Asif Ali, Vineeth Sreenivasan, Narain and Lal in key roles.
Image Credits: The Leela Palace
The movie has amassed widespread critical and commercial acclaim since its release in May, with the BO collections estimated to have touched the 200 Cr. (USD 25 million) mark. 2018 happens to be the highest earning Malayalam film of all time and is also one of Indian cinema's top earners in 2023.
Image Credits: The Leela Palace
The Tovino Thomas-starrer will compete for the Best International Feature Film, a category that was previously titled Best Foreign Film.
Image Credits: The Leela Palace
The selection comes as a huge feat for the country as no Indian entry has been nominated for Best International Feature Film at the Oscars since Lagaan in 2002.
Image Credits: The Leela Palace
Speaking of entries, India's official entry for the Oscars last year was Chhello Show, which unfortunately didn’t make the cut as a nomination. Nevertheless, 2022 turned out to be a phenomenal year as India emerged victorious on multiple fronts: Naatu Naatu from RRR clinched the Best Original Song, while The Elephant Whisperers won the Best Documentary Short Subject. The forthcoming Oscars will be held on March 10,2024.