SHILLONG: That the stature of a film is best judged by its sincerity in approach, and a strong subject matter, and integral artistic performance as opposed to the traditional thought of a big budget production requirement has been proved correct.
Ri – homeland of uncertainty, a film in the Khasi language from Meghalaya that bagged the coveted National Film Award this year, and was also chosen amongst the best twenty six feature films of India to feature in the prestigious Indian Panorama category at the 45th International Film Festival of India, Goa 2014 made its presence felt in the course of creating history for the Abode of Clouds.
Created at a meagre constrained fund, the film was well appreciated by people thronging the INOX at Goa. A good number of international viewers were also part of the audience. What was seen as a pleasant surprise by many was that the film looked richer in appearance than its true making worth. A regular delegate for the IFFI from Italy, Giovanni Rossi was of the opinion that “such film makers require and should get the necessary support.”
Speaking to media personnel, a seemingly happy Director of the film, Pradip Kurbah quipped, “I cannot wait for the day when I shall have the financial wherewithal to make a film. I would rather have my stories told and watched. We have always faced hardship in this line, but the idea is to move forward and not be tied down because of it.” What matters, he rightly says is the profound joy one feels when one is constantly challenged but is able to do what one loves.
The film, for all its portrayal deservingly received a warm and appreciative round of applause at the end.
At the press conference conducted by PIB, while asked about the overall feeling of being part of the IFFI, actor Merlvin Mukhim said, “It is an honour to be a part of such a prestigious event, and more so in being a part of a film from the state which is the first Khasi film ever to be selected for the Indian Panorama. It would be a blessing for Meghalaya to have more support coming in, in terms of industry building. Our talented youth deserve it.”
Pady Gajageshwar, a renowned Marathi actor and writer was the first to meet the duo after the screening. “The scenic beauty and technicality of the film is unbelievable. It seems at par with any Hindi film.”
Film critique Rajesh Shetty added, “The film is beyond expectation, and we would love to see more films from Meghalaya.”
It may be added that while the going is good, the State of Meghalaya will showcase more of its stories for world appreciation.