2024 stands as a landmark year for filmmaker Zoya Akhtar, marking 15 years since the release of her debut film ‘Luck By Chance’ in 2009, which starred Farhan Akhtar and Konkona Sen Sharma. This significant milestone will be celebrated in grand fashion as PVR Inox Cinemas’ luxury segment, The Luxury Collection, announces the opening of PVR Inox Lido in Juhu. The highlight of this launch is a special retrospective film festival, paying tribute to the illustrious career of Zoya Akhtar.
Running for a week, this festival will showcase some of Akhtar’s most beloved works, including ‘Luck By Chance,’ ‘Dil Dhadakne Do,’ ‘Talaash,’ ‘Gully Boy,’ and ‘Zindagi Na Milegi Dobara,’ giving audiences a splendid opportunity to revisit these modern classics on the big screen. The festival aims to underscore how Zoya Akhtar has become a transformative figure in Bollywood, with a filmography that defies conventional norms while resonating deeply with a diverse viewership.
In the 15 years since her debut, Zoya Akhtar has made a name for herself with her unique storytelling style, straddling various genres and mediums. From theatrical releases to OTT platforms and web series, her eclectic body of work illustrates a nuanced understanding of human nature and societal issues. Akhtar’s narratives often explore themes of love, ambition, and self-discovery, bringing forth stories that are both entertaining and thought-provoking.
Ritesh Sidhwani and Farhan Akhtar of Excel Entertainment have been crucial collaborators in Zoya’s cinematic journey. Together with Tiger Baby, their production house, they have set a high standard for storytelling in Hindi cinema. Their collaborations have resulted in iconic films that spark conversations and touch hearts, contributing significantly to the modern landscape of Indian cinema.
This retrospective is more than just a celebration of Zoya Akhtar’s films; it’s an event replete with heartfelt discussions and intriguing dialogues. Zoya Akhtar, Farhan Akhtar, and Reema Kagti, another notable filmmaker and frequent collaborator, engaged in a vibrant discussion with Ajay Bijli, Chairman & Managing Director of PVR Cinemas. This engaging conversation delved into Zoya’s filmmaking journey, her inspirations, and the broader impact of her work on Indian cinema.
Speaking about the retrospective, Zoya Akhtar expressed her enthusiasm, “When I heard about this retrospective, I was excited because my films are going to be on the big screen again. I love the movies. This industry has got all my heart; I do not want to be anywhere else. This is my home.
.” She also emphasized the importance of the newly launched PVR Inox Lido, highlighting how it gives younger audiences a chance to experience older films that might have been released before their time. She described this opportunity as a “real gift,” underscoring the cinema’s cultural significance.
Adding to the accolades, Reema Kagti praised Zoya’s impact on Bollywood, stating, “Zoya has been one of the defining voices of modern Hindi cinema.” Kagti’s words encapsulate the groundbreaking influence that Zoya has wielded in the realm of Hindi films.
Farhan Akhtar, sharing his thoughts on the event, said, “This means a lot to us. I would like to thank Mr. Ajay for encouraging people to return to theaters and making it a great experience. I myself have fond memories of watching films here back in the days.” He further expressed his pride in Zoya’s work, stating, “I’m proud of Zoya’s unique voice in filmmaking. As a collaborator, producer, and brother, I couldn’t be happier.”
Excel Entertainment’s contribution to Indian cinema can hardly be overstated. Ritesh Sidhwani, Farhan Akhtar, and their team have successfully created a repertoire of films that appeal across different demographics, continually pushing the envelope of traditional storytelling in Bollywood. Their collaborations with Zoya have been characterized by a blend of commercial success and critical acclaim, offering films that are not just blockbusters but also culturally significant narratives.
The retrospective film festival at PVR Inox Lido, Juhu, is indeed a testament to Zoya Akhtar’s remarkable journey in the world of cinema. It is an opportunity for both new fans and longtime admirers to experience once again the cinematic brilliance that has defined her career. As 2024 marks 15 years of Zoya Akhtar in the industry, this celebration highlights not just her past achievements, but also sets the stage for her future endeavors, promising even more trailblazing films that will continue to inspire and captivate audiences.
In conclusion, Zoya Akhtar’s impact on Bollywood is indelible, and this special retrospective film festival is a fitting tribute to a director whose work continues to shape the narrative landscape of Hindi cinema. Through her films, Zoya has introduced audiences to new ways of seeing and understanding the world, making a lasting impact that will be celebrated for years to come.
