- Friday, November 15, 2024
The jury recognised the film’s use of magical realism to explore themes of colonialism and labour relations
By: India Weekly
INDIAN actor Manoj Bajpayee’s film “The Fable” has won the Best Film award at the 38th Leeds International Film Festival in the UK.
Directed by Raam Reddy, the film was awarded the top prize in the Constellation Feature Film Competition, which celebrates outstanding, innovative cinema worldwide.
The jury praised Reddy’s “lyrical homage to old tales passed through generations and made always prescient through the steady rhythms and the undeniable truths of life,” recognising the film’s use of magical realism to explore themes of colonialism and labour relations.
“No other film felt as fitting a choice for the Constellation Competition Grand Prize than this inventive, entrancing film about stories carried by stars,” said the jury in a statement, expressing hope that audiences worldwide will experience the film.
“The Fable,” a US-Indian co-production, follows Dev (Bajpayee), who grapples with mysterious fires in his Himalayan fruit orchards, leading to revelations about his family and heritage.
Reflecting on the film’s success, Bajpayee said, “Winning the Best Film award at Leeds is not just a triumph for our film but a proud moment for Indian cinema.”
Executive producer Guneet Monga Kapoor described the win as a testament to Reddy’s vision and Bajpayee’s performance, calling it an honour to see the story resonate globally.
Director Reddy, reflecting on the award, expressed gratitude to his team, who he credits with bringing the project to life.
“The Fable” previously won a special jury prize at the 2024 MAMI Mumbai Film Festival.
