Beyond Bollywood - Indian Program in Krakow2010-02-27

Beyond Bollywood

India can be referred to as a country filled with mystery, exotic extravagance, ancient traditions and cultures that span a period of well over 5000 years. It must be noted that India is in reality a sub continent with a population of 1.4 billion people encompassing multiple religions, 22 official languages and 1400 dialects. Today, the economy of India is booming, and the sleeping giant of a decade ago is now emerging as the third largest economy in the world.

The cinema of India very naturally mirrors and reflects to the outside world the legacy of British colonialism, the exuberance and passion for life, the appalling injustices born out of the caste system, and the psychological distress of citizens who recognize their country has suddenly become a global economic power.

How is it possible to describe Indian cinema? There are many Indian cinemas, all distinct and separate, and yet perfectly discernable to their diverse audiences. Over the last twenty years, the growth, the professionalism, and the vast variety of Indian cinema has created a visual representation of the rapidly changing inner core of the country itself; Indian cinema has literally exploded onto the world stage, never again to recede.


"PAA" will have its European premiere in Krakow


The OFF PLUS CAMERA Film Festival is pleased to present a program of eight films, representing the best of the mainstream, and the regional cinema of India. Several of the films come from the extraordinary diversity that is currently at play within the Mumbai industry. Slated for a GALA screening at the OFF PLUS CAMERA film festival is "PAA", the story of a most unusual child, old well before his time. In New York, we are introduced to a post-9/11 apocalyptic universe, and to those whose lives have been forever shattered by the aftermath of this event.

In "Well Done Abba" Shyan Benegal, the great Indian satirist, exposes government corruption, through the life of a bumbling innocent. "Harischandrachi Factory", the debut film by Paresh Mokashi and India’s Oscar contender, delights with a biographical account of Dr. Dhundiraj Govind Phalke, the irrepressible and charming father of Indian cinema. Amit Rai’s light touch is evident in his stunning debut film, "Road to Sangam", a true story and loving tribute to the memory of Mahatma Gandhi. From West Bengal, we present films from two of the most acclaimed Bengali directors, award winners Aparna Sen and Rituparno Ghosh.


Krakow will host the world premiere of Apara Sen's newest movie "The Japanese Wife"

"The Japanese Wife" by Aparna Sen is an improbable and achingly beautiful love story. "Abohomaan" (The Eternal), a signature film from Rituparno Ghosh, impresses the audience with the story of an emotionally harrowing social dynamic. Finally, from the Malayalam industry, we present "Kerala Café"  a charming omnibus film made up of films from ten different directors. All the films are about a journey, and all the characters find their way to the Kerala Café, a lovely railway station. "Kerala Café"  was conceived, developed and designed by actor, writer, and director Ranjith.

We hope you will enjoy these films.