The hit Malayalam film “Manjummel Boys” is receiving international recognition as it is set to be featured at Russia’s inaugural KinoBravo Film Festival. Directed by the talented Chidambaram, “Manjummel Boys” has already made a significant mark in the Indian film industry by becoming the first Malayalam film to collect ₹200 crore at the box office.
KinoBravo Film Festival, which kicks off today, September 28, and runs until October 4, promises to be an event of notable screenings and rich cultural exchange. Notably, the festival will also showcase Payal Kapadia’s Cannes Grand Prix winner “All We Imagine As Light” and SS Rajamouli’s colossal hit “RRR”. These acclaimed films will feature in the Out of Competition: Festival Hits and the Out of Competition: Blockbuster Hits categories respectively.
One of the highlights of the KinoBravo festival will be the red carpet screening of “Manjummel Boys” on September 30, followed by a general screening on October 1. Based on a true story, the film stars acclaimed actors such as Soubin Shahir, Sreenath Bhasi, Deepak Parambol, Jean Paul Lal, Ganapathi, Balu Varghese, George Maryan, Abhiram Radhakrishnan, and Khalid Rahman.
With its gripping narrative and exceptional performances, “Manjummel Boys” broke the previous record for the highest-grossing Malayalam film, a title held by Jude Anthany Joseph’s “2018” which had collected over ₹150 crore. The plot intricately captures the essence of friendship, dreams, and the struggles faced by a group of young men in Manjummel.
Joining “Manjummel Boys” at KinoBravo is an array of 12 other films in the festival’s main selection. The festival boasts a diverse lineup, presenting a total of 25 titles from countries including Russia, China, India, Brazil, Ethiopia, the UAE, Kazakhstan, Turkey, Serbia, Egypt, Iran, South Africa, and Saudi Arabia. Each film will be presented by its director or key contributors, ensuring an engaging and interactive experience for festival attendees.
Apart from the premiere screenings, KinoBravo’s program includes a range of activities designed to engage both filmmakers and movie enthusiasts. There will be workshops hosted by renowned actors and directors, retrospectives on both Russian and international cinema, and musical concerts featuring prominent Russian artists.
. The festival aims to foster a collaborative environment where industry professionals can exchange ideas and explore new creative ventures.
The business segment of the festival is equally robust, featuring panel discussions, roundtable sessions, master classes, and presentations of significant studio projects and international film collaborations. These sessions provide an invaluable opportunity for networking and knowledge-sharing among global film industry stakeholders.
Chidambaram, the director of “Manjummel Boys”, has expressed his excitement about the film’s inclusion in the prestigious KinoBravo lineup. He sees it as a testament to the ever-expanding reach and appeal of Malayalam cinema. “It’s an honor for ‘Manjummel Boys’ to be screened alongside such monumental films and to represent Malayalam cinema on an international stage,” he stated.
The inclusion of multiple high-profile films at KinoBravo, including “RRR” and “All We Imagine As Light”, further amplifies the festival’s prominence. “RRR”, directed by SS Rajamouli, is a historical epic that has gained massive acclaim for its storytelling and visual grandeur. Meanwhile, Payal Kapadia’s “All We Imagine As Light” continues to garner accolades for its poignant depiction of human emotions and has already made a significant mark on the international film festival circuit.
The KinoBravo Film Festival is poised to become a significant event in the global film community, celebrating cinematic excellence and providing a platform for diverse voices in the industry. As “Manjummel Boys” prepares for its Russian debut, the film’s success underscores the global appeal and narrative strength of Malayalam cinema.
This landmark event not only highlights the artistic achievements of filmmakers but also reflects the evolving dynamics and cultural reach of films worldwide. With “Manjummel Boys” leading the charge, the future of Malayalam cinema shines brightly on the global stage.
