Indian Film Aattam Wins Grand Jury Award and to be Screened at International Film Festival of India
Indian film Aattam directed by Anand Ekarshi has been making waves in the international film festival circuit. After receiving a positive response at the International venue of the Indian Film Festival of Los Angeles, the film went on to win the prestigious Grand Jury Award for Best Film. Now, it is set to be showcased as the opening film in the Indian Panorama section at the 54th International Film Festival of India.
Aattam revolves around a theatre group comprising of 13 artists, with 12 male and one female. The story takes a dark turn when a crime occurs after a theatre performance, with the female artist becoming the victim of assault. The film delves into the internal investigation that follows, exploring the intricacies of human behavior and psychology.
Director Anand Ekarshi describes Aattam as a chamber suspense drama that transforms into a procedural drama with an internal investigation. He emphasizes that the film has multiple layers, offering a deep study of human nature. With Vinay Forrt, Kalabhavan Shajohn, Zarin Shihab, Nandan Unni, and nine newcomers in the cast, the film promises exceptional performances. Anurudh Aneesh handles the cinematography.
What makes Aattam unique is its inception as a project among friends. Aside from actor Kalabhavan Shajohn and the female lead, all the cast members have previously worked together in theater. During a trip, actors Vinay and his friend suggested a project with the entire group, and the story was crafted accordingly. Anand expresses his pride in the end result, stating that people have responded positively to the film.
The director also reveals the challenges of giving equal importance to all 13 lead characters. Juggling continuity and character development for such a large ensemble was demanding, but Anand ensured that each character’s dialogue reflected their personality. The film takes place over the course of a week, while the investigation unfolds within a single day.
Anand emphasizes that Aattam is an exploration of human nature and how people react to a crime. The film depicts the complexities of justice when personal stakes are involved. Anand asserts that the female character, played by Zarin Shihab, is a realistic and complex portrayal. She is an architect and theater artist, navigating a complicated relationship while concealing it from those around her. As the film progresses, she becomes a protagonist, standing up for her values.
According to Anand, keeping characters flawed and real is crucial, as he believes flawless characters are unrealistic and uninspiring. While the film touches on gender dynamics, the female character is not placed on a pedestal. Anand stresses the importance of portraying people as flawed and human, with situations determining their heroism or villainy.
After its success at the International Film Festival of Los Angeles, Aattam is set to be screened at the International Film Festival of Kerala in December. The film’s journey continues to garner attention and accolades, solidifying its position as a captivating exploration of human behavior.
In conclusion, Indian film Aattam directed by Anand Ekarshi has received widespread acclaim, winning the Grand Jury Award for Best Film at the International Film Festival of Los Angeles. With its thought-provoking storyline, exceptional cast, and exploration of human nature, the film is gaining recognition in the festival circuit. Audiences can look forward to experiencing this gripping chamber suspense drama that shines a light on the depths of human behavior and psychology.
