Tuning in to the Oscar buzz

Ibelieve that the Oscars are the ultimate recognition for one’s efforts in any language or genre of meaningful cinema. Since the award in any category is an instant recognition, countries send their best work for the world to take notice of.

My favourite pick was Lagaan, a story that was depicted beautifully and a film that excelled in every department. Another favourite was the Rajkummar Rao-starrer Newton, which was India’s official entry in 2018. It showcased the true face of rural India during elections, and the life of booth officers brilliantly.

If international movies nominated in various categories can be appreciated by our audience, I see no reason why the best work from our country can’t be bestowed with the honour of the ‘best foreign language film’ in the years to come.

Trupti Merchant ture works on business and often great movies are pushed into a corner because we desire a hit film. The advantage of a tag is that it brings the film into the mainstream.

For me, movies are not about tags but a personal experience. As a cinema lover, I see and judge a movie for myself. I have loved Sairat and cheered with Lagaan. There is so much to experience in cinema and countries like Korea produce amazing movies.

I enjoy a film like Golmaal but also do not mind a movie with subtitles from Kerala. Movies can be new experiences and for me, it is spending a few hours in another world. Serious cinema can be entertaining and I have not been fooled into the concept that art cinema is only for intellectuals.

Tags mean more exposure which is the biggest benefit. Winning an Oscar does not make a movie better.

Niloufer Tamboli