VILLAGE ROCKSTARS 2, the latest film from director Rima Das, has been shortlisted for the Kim Jiseok Award at the 2024 Busan International Film Festival (BIFF).
This movie is a sequel to the critically acclaimed Village Rockstars, which premiered at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2017 and went on to win a National Award. It was also India's official submission for the 2019 Academy Awards.
Out of eight films selected for the Jiseok Competition section at the 29th BIFF, Village Rockstars 2 is the only Indian entry, as announced in a press release.
Das, who was recently invited to join the director's branch of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences, shared her anticipation for the world premiere of her film at Busan.
"Village Rockstars holds a very special place for me due to the recognition it gained," Das stated. "I'm excited to see how Village Rockstars 2 will be received at Busan, and I hope it resonates with audiences just as much as the first."
The 29th edition of the Busan International Film Festival is set to begin on October 2.
The first Village Rockstars followed the story of a 10-year-old girl called Dhunu who befriends a group of boys and dreams of becoming a rock star.
"While it's a sequel, this film stands on its own, delving into Dhunu's relationship with her mother, mother nature, and music. I dedicate this film to all the young people with talent and dreams but limited resources to achieve them. I am hopeful that just as audiences embraced Village Rockstars, they will embrace this film as well," she added.
The Kim Jiseok Award, established in 2017, commemorates the late Kim Jiseok, who dedicated his life to discovering and supporting the growth of Asian cinema. It is given to the two best films that reflect the contemporary standing of Asian cinema.
Last year, Sri Lankan filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage's Paradise and Bride Kidnapping by Kyrgyz director Mirlan Abdykalykov won the Kim Jiseok Award last year.
BIFF will come to a close on October 11. (PTI)
