Malayalam movie ‘Vadakkan’ to be screened at Cannes Film Festival on 21 May

Directed by Sajeed A, the horror film will be screened at Marché du Film Fantastic Pavilion as one of the seven gala screenings.

BySouth First Desk

Published May 20, 2024 | 11:57 AM Updated May 20, 2024 | 2:58 PM

Vadakkan Cannes Film Festival

The Malayalam movie Vadakkan is all set to make its debut at the Cannes Film Festival’s prestigious Marché du Film Fantastic Pavilion on Tuesday, 21 May.

The horror film is rooted in ancient North Malabar folklore, especially Theyyam, as depicted in its poster.

It is directed by Sajeed A and stars Kishore and Shruthy Menon.

Vadakkan boasts an eminent crew, including Academy Award-winning sound designer Resul Pookutty, cinematographer Kieko Nakahara, music director Bijibal, and writer Unni R.

The film won the rare opportunity to be showcased at the Marché du Film Fantastic Pavilion, which is the epicentre of industry networking and film sales during the Cannes Film Festival.

Pablo Guisa, Executive Director of Marché du Films Fantastic Pavilion, Cannes Film Festival, said it was an absolute delight to host Vadakkan as one of the seven gala screenings.

As Pablo Guisa has described it, Vadakkan is a unique blend of mystery, ancient lore, and supernatural elements, “shot to global standards, the film will provide an experience like no other.”

Guisa added, “Vadakkan has a gripping narrative with a unique storytelling format. The production showcases the strength of Indian cinema in the global genre cinema space. We are impressed with the director’s and producer’s vision to put together a world-class cast and crew to bring the franchise of Vadakkan alive for the audiences.”

 

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Vadakkan to be released in multiple languages

Jaideep Singh of Off Beet Films (the banner that bankrolled the movie) stated that Vadakkan will redefine Indian cinema with its fusion of local narratives and global sensibilities.

“With Vadakkan, we aim to redefine Indian cinema by seamlessly blending hyperlocal narratives with global sensibilities supported by the world-class cast and crew,” he said.

About the debut at the Cannes Film Festival, Jaideep pointed out, “Presentation at the Fantastic Pavilion is a huge step for us. Vadakkan is more than just a supernatural thriller; it’s a homage to our rich cultural heritage which has massive potential to travel across the globe.”

After its Cannes debut, Vadakkan will reach audiences worldwide.

The makers are planning to release the dubbed versions in Kannada, Tamil, Telugu, and other regional languages.

The Malayalam movie is also expected to be screened at other international film festivals.

Earlier, it was screened at the Brussels International Fantastic Film Festival.

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