Filmmaker Rima Das’ latest offering, “Village Rockstars 2,” the eagerly awaited sequel to her 2017 critically acclaimed film, has been selected to compete for the prestigious Kim Jiseok Award at the upcoming Busan International Film Festival (BIFF) 2024. This significant announcement is generating widespread interest in both the Indian and international film communities.
Das’ first “Village Rockstars” was a monumental success, having garnered international acclaim as well as the National Award in India. The film made its debut at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2017, and later added another feather to its cap by being selected as India’s official entry for the Academy Awards in 2019. For Rima Das, the continuation of this journey with “Village Rockstars 2” represents not just a sequel, but also an evolution of her acclaimed storytelling.
As per an official press release, “Village Rockstars 2” is set to be the only Indian film amongst the eight selected features to be showcased in the Jiseok Competition section at the 29th edition of BIFF. The festival, a prominent event on the global cinematic calendar, will commence on October 2 and extend until October 11, 2024.
Earlier this year, Rima Das was invited to join the directors’ branch by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences—a testament to her expanding influence in global cinema. Das expressed her eagerness for the film’s world premiere at BIFF, stating, “Village Rockstars will always hold a special place in my heart, and I cherish the love and recognition it received. I’m thrilled that Village Rockstars 2 is premiering at Busan,” she shared in a statement, her excitement palpable.
The first installment, “Village Rockstars,” narrated the tale of a 10-year-old girl named Dhunu who aspires to become a rock star despite the economic challenges she faces. The film focused on Dhunu’s friendships with a group of boys in her village, poignantly capturing the innocence and ambitions of childhood against a rural backdrop.
In discussing the sequel, Das elaborated that although it builds on the first movie, “Village Rockstars 2” stands independently as well.
. “While it’s a sequel, this film stands on its own, delving into Dhunu’s relationship with her mother, mother nature, and music,” Das elaborated. “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.”
A promotional still from “Village Rockstars 2,” shared on BIFF’s official social media channels, humbly hints at the visual and emotional depth of the new film.
The Kim Jiseok Award was founded in 2017 in honor of the late Kim Jiseok, a pivotal figure in Asian cinema dedicated to discovering and fostering cinematic talents across the continent. The award is given to the two best films that best encapsulate contemporary Asian cinema. Last year, the winners of the Kim Jiseok Award were “Paradise” by Sri Lankan filmmaker Prasanna Vithanage and “Bride Kidnapping” by Kyrgyz director Mirlan Abdykalykov.
The Busan International Film Festival, now in its 29th edition, is a celebration of film from around the globe, showcasing an array of genres and narratives that epitomize the heart and soul of modern cinema. The festival’s activities, a blend of screenings, panels, and networking events, make it a pivotal convergence point for filmmakers, critics, and audiences alike.
For Rima Das, “Village Rockstars 2” represents a continuity of her vision, dedication, and heartfelt storytelling. This selection at BIFF is not just a testament to the film’s potential but also an acknowledgment of the creative strides being made in Indian cinema. As the festival approaches, anticipation builds, not just for “Village Rockstars 2,” but for the broader stories that reflect the cultural and social fabrics of our diverse world.
Stay tuned as we bring more updates from the Busan International Film Festival, covering the latest films, reviews, and interviews with leading filmmakers.
